What to know about Lavandula angustifolia (english lavender) before using it medicinally

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is a herb renowned for its remarkable health-enhancing properties, which have been shown to alleviate stress, anxiety, and insomnia, while also boasting anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits.

In terms of horticulture, Lavandula angustifolia is a relatively low-maintenance plant, requiring well-draining soil and a Mediterranean climate to thrive. From a botanical perspective, this herb is characterized by its narrow, lance-shaped leaves and distinctive purple flowers, which are rich in essential oils and fragrances.

Lavandula angustifolia has been referenced in ancient Greek and Roman literature, where it was revered for its medicinal and perfumery uses, with the Greek physician Hippocrates being known to have used it to treat a variety of ailments.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Lavandula angustifolia.

What are the medicinal properties of Lavandula angustifolia?

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, helps with anxiety, insomnia, and restlessness due to its calming and sedative properties. It also aids in pain relief, improves mood, and reduces inflammation. Topical use soothes skin irritations and wounds.

The active constituents of English lavender responsible for its medicinal properties are linalool, linalyl acetate, and camphor. These essential oils have been shown to exhibit anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and sedative effects.

The flowers, leaves, and essential oil of English lavender are most commonly used for medicinal purposes. The flowers are dried and used in teas, infusions, and potpourri. The essential oil is extracted through steam distillation and used topically or added to aromatherapy products.

Improper use of English lavender can cause side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, and headaches. Allergic reactions, such as skin irritation and respiratory issues, may occur in sensitive individuals.

Precautions when using English lavender medicinally include avoiding use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It should also be avoided in people with epilepsy and those taking sedatives or antidepressants. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended before using English lavender for medicinal purposes.

What are the horticulural aspects of Lavandula angustifolia?

Lavandula angustifolia grow best in well-drained soils with full sun and a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Temperatures between 60-90°F (15-32°C) are ideal, and it requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

For optimal growth, plant english lavender in a location with good air circulation, 12-18 inches apart, and at a depth of 6-8 inches. Water sparingly during its first year, then only during dry spells. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.

English lavender is ready to harvest when the buds are in full color and the stems are dry. Cut off the flower spikes, leaving a 1-inch stem, and use immediately or dry for later use. Harvest individual stems to promote bushy growth.

Common pests affecting english lavender include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Root rot, caused by overwatering, and leaf spot, caused by fungal diseases, are common issues. Regular pruning and good hygiene can help prevent these problems.

What are the botanical aspects of Lavandula angustifolia?

Lavandula angustifolia is a perennial shrub with slender stems, typically between 12 to 24 inches tall, and narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are 1.5 to 3 inches long. The leaves are a soft, green color with a slightly grayish tint. The plant has a woody base and a taproot.

Lavandula angustifolia belongs to the family Lamiaceae, and its botanical classification is as follows: Kingdom: Plantae, Phylum: Angiospermophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Lamiales, Family: Lamiaceae, Genus: Lavandula, and Species: L. angustifolia. It is closely related to Lavandula latifolia and Lavandula stoechas.

Several variants of Lavandula angustifolia have been identified, including 'Hidcote', 'Munstead', 'Phenomenal', 'Rosemary', 'Schomburgkiana', and 'Tuck Ever Blooming'. These variants are bred for their distinct growth habits, foliage, or flowering characteristics. They are widely cultivated for ornamental purposes.

Lavandula angustifolia is native to the mountainous regions of the Mediterranean basin, but it has been naturalized in many other parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Australia. It typically grows in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade conditions.

The life cycle of Lavandula angustifolia typically begins in late winter or early spring, when new growth emerges from the woody base. The plant produces new flowers in late spring to early summer, which are purple, tubular, and highly fragrant. The flowers are followed by seed pods, which mature in the fall, completing the plant's life cycle.

What are the historical aspects of Lavandula angustifolia?

Lavandula angustifolia is an herb that has been used for its medicinal and cosmetic properties since ancient times. It was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans for its antiseptic and antispasmodic properties, and by the medieval Europeans for its use in perfumes and potpourri.

In Greek mythology, lavender was associated with the nymph Hestia, who was said to have used it to calm the passions of the gods. The Romans, on the other hand, associated lavender with the goddess Vesta, who was revered as the patron of the hearth. Both cultures valued lavender for its calming and purifying properties.

In the Victorian era, lavender was used as a symbol of love, devotion, and loyalty, while in the language of flowers, it represented purity, refinement, and calmness. The ancient Egyptians, on the other hand, used lavender in their embalming rituals, valuing it for its preservative and antiseptic properties.

Lavandula angustifolia is mentioned in the historical texts of the medieval herbals, such as the "Tresorier" of 12th century France and the "Liber de Virtutibus Herbarum" of 13th century Italy. These texts describe its medicinal properties and its use in treating a range of ailments, from insomnia to skin conditions.

Archaeological discoveries have revealed the presence of lavender in ancient tombs and burial sites, including the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, where lavender was used to perfume the body and ward off decay. Other historical artifacts, such as ancient Greek and Roman amphorae, have been found to contain lavender residues, demonstrating its widespread use in ancient times.