So I’ve just recently moved from an apartment with no balcony to a house in the county with a garden full of herbs.

I just don’t think I could ever live without an outdoor space again (I’ve been spoiled). I’m now growing all my own salads like a proper reccesionista! What I’m most impressed by in the garden however is the Lavender thats suddenly come to life. So are the butterflies, there are so many in the garden now, its great. The oils repel mosquitos and other garden pests though so an all-rounder really. I love the smell of lavender so I’m out there picking stems to carry the aroma around with me all the time.

If you are also lucky enough to have lavender in your garden then there is so much you can do with it but if not you can purchase it many places such as your local health food store or do an online search in your area.

I’ve picked a lot already and dried it so I don’t run out ... Tie a bunch together and hang upside down in the hot-press and leave for a couple of days. (Dried herbs can actually be more potent).

Aswell as smelling amazing and having tons of medicinal qualities its Yummy!

So many uses .. Sprinkle in salads, bake in bread, throw on the bbq with some veggies or make Lavender sugar ... Mix either dried or fresh lavender flowers with sugar and put in a sealed container. Keep in a warm place for 1-2 weeks and shake the container occasionally.

Sift the sugar to remove the lavender heads and store the scented sugar in a airtight container. (For 1 cup of sugar, use either 2 tbps of dried lavender/ 4 tbsps of fresh.)

This fabulous herb is a great aid for relaxing or treating headaches, add a few drops of the essential oil to an oil burner or a small bowl of water and place on a radiator or in the direct sun. The heat helps the oil evaporate and the water prevents it from burning. It can also be applied directly to your skin, place a drop on each wrist and inhale regularly. 

The oil is extracted from the flowers and has amazing healing power and is now used in burn clinics in Europe as it has wound healing properties which encourage cell regeneration. I keep lavender in my kitchen for minor burns, applied immediately it works wonders! (also good for sunburn) 

The antibacterial properties of lavender essential oil means it can be an everyday part of your first aid kit. make minor cuts, bites & stings all better again.

it is important to make sure that flowers you use are edible.  They may be labeled as "culinary lavender" or "food grade."

If its not in your garden now ... get ready for next year and grow your own!  The plant is native to Mediterranean regions but its cultivated throughout the world. The grayish-green foliage stays attractive year around and flowers purple in the summer months.

Lavender grows as a shrub reaching up to about three feet in height. It does best in full sun, it’s low maintenance & likes well-drained soil There are over 50 varieties to choose from.

Some more ideas;

Add a few buds to a glass of Champagne, tastes as good as it looks.

Refreshing - a few sprigs of mint and lavender in iced water.

Add some flowers to a bath for the lovely floral aroma.

Have some great uses of your own for lavender? .. share with me in the comments below!!

Amie Organics ‘Yellow Mellow’ is available in our online shop

Lavender & Chamomile blended together for a relaxing chill out ...

Sinead ...