OUDTSHOORN LIFESTYLE NEWS - In addition to its wonderful fragrance, lavender has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and antidepressant properties. There are several ways to use lavender.
Jane Griffiths reveals everyday uses for this pretty shrub.
Lavender Growing Tips
A native of the Mediterranean, this hardy perennial likes full sun. Although is drought tolerant, it adapts well to a range of climates. It flowers nearly all year round, attracting many beneficial insects with its fragrant purple spears, while its strong-smelling leaves repel aphids, whitefly and other harmful insects. It is also a rodent repellent, and if rats are a problem, a lavender hedge around a vegetable garden is a good deterrent.
Grow lavender from seed in seed trays or purchase seedlings. It dislikes being damp, and if its roots are constantly wet, it could die. Plant it in well-drained soil with plenty of space for air to circulate. Prune in early spring, cutting back about 8cm of growth. If you cut the flowers regularly, it will keep producing more.
Lavender and soapwort washing liquid
Soapwort with lavender creates a gentle washing liquid ideal as a mild shampoo, liquid soap or for delicate clothing.
Ingredients
- 1l water
- 2 cups chopped soapwort leaves and stems
- 1 cup lavender flowers
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
Method
Bring the water to the boil, add the soapwort and lavender and cover. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool. Strain and add the essential oil. Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to a week.
Air freshener
This refreshing mixture will clear a room of tobacco smoke, cooking odours and other stale smells.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups apple cider vinegar
- 1T rose water
- 3 drops each lavender, coriander, eucalyptus and tea tree essential oils
Method
Mix the ingredients together and seal in a sterilised bottle. Heat a few teaspoons in an oil burner as required.
