The Lavender Companion: Lavender and Wellness
Lavender is prized for its cleansing and calming properties—relax and unwind with Terry Barlin Vesci’s soothing Sugar Scrub recipe.
The science on lavender and its health benefits is surprisingly abundant, especially compared to that of other plants. Clinical trials conducted by medical research facilities, such as the University of Maryland Medical Center, the University of Arizona Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, and the division of life sciences at Kagoshima University in Japan (among many others), indicate that lavender contains powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties.
Lavender contains polyphenols and flavonoids, plus aromatics and the anxiety-relieving components linalool and linalyl acetate. Like sage and rosemary, lavender also contains the terpenes cineole and camphor. These components work together to provide lavender’s health-boosting power. Studies show that using the herb can help ease anxiety, induce sleep, relieve pain from headaches, soothe stomachaches, heal minor skin wounds, reduce stress, boost mood, and improve memory.
There are three principal ways to derive the unique health benefits of lavender. Topical, applying it to the skin for absorption; olfactory, breathing it in to stimulate olfactory neurons; and ingestion, through foods or drinks containing lavender.
Lavender can be used as a fresh or dried herb. It is also widely used as an essential oil. Lavender essential oil is an antibacterial, antimicrobial essential oil that is great for skin. When used topically, it’s been shown to treat acne and other superficial skin conditions and may even fade age spots. In a sugar scrub, it offers exfoliating and skin-conditioning properties.
Relax, unwind, and breathe deep with this fragrant Sugar Scrub recipe from The Lavender Companion by Terry Barlin Vesci and Jessica Dunham.
Sugar Scrub
Sugar is one of the best natural ingredients for skin exfoliation, and this scrub is sure to keep you feeling radiant. You can use this lavender sugar scrub on your face, hands, and feet, or any part of your body that you want to feel silky and soft.
Although coconut oil is a popular DIY sugar scrub ingredient, it’s highly comedogenic, which means it can clog skin pores and cause breakouts. High-quality grapeseed oil is a gentler choice. We like to add tea tree essential oil to this recipe; it’s antibacterial and is great for cleansing, but you can leave it out.
Makes approximately 1 cup.
Ingredients:
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar (or sugar of your choice)
- ¼ cup grapeseed oil
- 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
- ½ teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 20 drops lavender essential oil
- 2 drops tea tree essential oil (optional)
Directions:
- Measure each ingredient into a medium bowl and stir until thoroughly combined. Spoon into glass or plastic jars with tight-fitting lids.
- Massage a handful onto wet skin and exfoliate in circular motions. Rinse off with warm water and pat skin dry.
Use within 6 months.
Excerpted from The Lavender Companion © Terry Barlin Vesci and Jessica Dunham.
A celebration of lavender featuring stunning photographs; favorite recipes for the kitchen, pantry, and body care products; along with fascinating lore and gardening guidance from a destination lavender farm.
Lavender has long been a favorite herb with its amazing, resinous fragrance; calming qualities; and unique flavor for seasoning food. This lavishly photographed celebration of the beloved herb, written by an acclaimed lavender farmer and cooking instructor, is brimming over with inspiration and ideas for bringing the fragrance and flavor of lavender into daily life. The book profiles the most popular lavender varieties and their recommended uses, along with the history, lore, and traditional medicinal uses. More than 40 recipes showcase lavender in delicious dishes from the kitchen as well homemade craft and body products. Tips for success with lavender in the garden complete this perfect gift for every lavender lover.
