What to Do With Lavender Flowers

Cosmetics

• Lavender flowers have been used for cosmetic applications since ancient times; the word lavender comes from the Latin phrase lavare, meaning "to wash." Lavender flowers are used in baths for relaxation and dry skin relief, as eye masks and fragrant facial steams. The oil of the flowers can be extracted to make essence or lavender oil. Lavender oil can be homemade for use in lotions, massages oils, shampoos, soaps and other beauty aids.

Medical

• According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, research has shown that the scent of lavender flowers, when inhaled, can produce a soothing, calming and sedative effect that helps alleviate anxiety, depression, insomnia and fatigue. Aromatherapists use lavender for relief of headaches and stress, while herbalist apply lavender oil and essences for treatment of bacterial infections, eczema, wounds and acne. The medicinal advantages of lavender flowers are becoming increasingly acceptable in the medical community as more studies validate the benefits of the herb.

Culinary

• Lavender flowers have a sweet, mild flavor that is ideal for an array of culinary recipes, as long as no pesticides or chemicals have been used on the lavender plant prior to harvesting. The aromatic lavender flowers are used in salads, teas, honey, flavored butter and vinegars, delicate cakes and cookies, ice cream or sorbet, flavored sugars and candies, jelly, and can be a substitute for rosemary in recipes and meat marinades.

Decor

• Lavender flowers used in home decorating not only is attractive, but will fill the air with a subtle fragrant aroma for weeks. Use a simple bouquet of fresh cut lavender flowers or integrate lavender flowers into a multi-floral arrangement to accent larger blooms of roses, lilies, and daisies. Lavender is an excellent dried flower, retaining its color and a faint, sweet scent. Add to a dried flower arrangement, or remove the flowers from the stems and add to a potpourri. Lavender flowers can repel insects and moths from closets and drawers when used in a sachet. Create a lavender flower wreath for your front door or a location indoors. The wreath can be made from fresh cut lavender and allowed to dry naturally, or start with dried lavender flowers for a less intense aroma.