Learn the many Benefits of Lavender Tea
Health Benefits of Lavender Tea
Lavender (also known as lavandula) is an aromatic herbal plant, about 6-24 inches tall. This beautiful plant has narrow, silvery-green leaves and small lavender, violet, or purple tubular-shaped flowers.
There are many species of lavender but the most popular one grown for cosmetic and medicinal purposes is the English lavender (lavandula vera).
The benefits of lavender have been known throughout the centuries. Beneficial constituents of the lavender plant include tannins, borneol, coumarins, camphor, linalool, geraniol, and caryophyllene.
Treating a high fever by inducing sweating, calming nervousness and anxiety, alleviating stress and uplifting spirits, relieving headaches, promoting sleep, treating upset stomachs, flatulence, colic, and stomach and bowel infections are all health benefits of lavender tea.
You can also apply lavender tea topically to heal cuts, wounds, and sores or use it as a mouthwash to freshen your breath.
Growing Lavender
Lavender, a perennial herb, should be planted in the spring or fall. It can be grown from seeds, which should be started indoors, but it is usually best to purchase plants. You can also start with transplants from rooted cuttings.
Lavender can tolerate many conditions, but thrives in regions with a dry summer. Lavender does not like to have wet roots, so well-drained soil is a must. Plant lavender in full sun and protect them from harsh winter winds. Once your lavender is well-established, watering is unnecessary except during extreme droughts.
The best time to harvest lavender is when 1/3 to 1/2 of the spike is in bloom. It is also ideal to harvest in the early morning hours when the oils are at their strongest. You can either lay your harvest out on a flat surface or hang them in bunches to dry.
Preparing Lavender Tea
Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried lavender flowers to 1 cup of just-boiled water, steep about 10 minutes, and strain. For an extra refreshing cup of tea, add some mint leaves.
To get the most benefits of lavender tea, use English lavender. This also offers the best taste.
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