The History of Lavender: Aromatherapy Throughout the Ages

From the texts of ancient Roman scholars to your grandmother's notebooks, you will find mention of Lavender. This herb's relevance throughout history clearly demonstrates a multi-cultural connection to its properties. Lavender is native to Mediterranean regions, but quickly spread across Europe as its' consumption grew. As this sacred herb was passed around the world its' use and importance melded with those cultures.

Two Centuries of Lavender History

Lavender's origin in the Mediterranean made it a valuable resource to the cultures of the area. The herb was cemented into religious, medical, and therapeutic use among these coastal people. These uses were accounted as early as 50 AD by Dioscorides, who was followed by monumental scholars like Galen and Pliny. Together these authors create a picture of Lavender's cultural presence in ancient Rome. In the Roman world Lavender was appreciated as a mood stabilizer, sedative, and for its wound-healing properties. Romans would steam the herb in bathhouses, concoct herbal teas, and apply the oil to wounds. Many of these uses have withstood the test of time, and remain relevant today.

A century later Hildegard of Bingen, a German Abbess, sought to categorize and explain the many uses of lavender. Her life was situated far from the Mediterranean, but sacred herbs were regularly grown in the gardens of these monasteries. She suggested the use of lavender concoctions for their anti-inflammatory properties, as well as Lavender baths to promote rest. By taking wisdom that had been passed down for thousands of years, and applying it to her health; Abbess Hildegard was able to thrive to the age of 81. Beating the average 12th century life expectancy by 50 years. Hildegard of Bingen was able to spend her long life dedicated to a mission of preserving and growing the field of herbal medicine, and her work continues to be important today.

In Salvatore Battaglia's expansive work The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, he outlines our current relationship with Lavender. From the herb's anti-inflammatory properties, to its' sedative activity, to its' relationship with wound-healing; scientists are conducting rigorous trials on this ancient medicine. Battaglia states, " A number of controlled trials and observational studies confirm that inhalation of lavender oil has a relaxing effect and is able to reduce anxiety and improve mood, concentration and sleep." After two centuries lavender remains an important and potent herbal supplement to daily life.

What We Have To Offer

Lavender Essential Oils 

High quality organic Lavandula Angustifolia oil.

Super Alpha Calm Dietary Supplement

A blend of herbal extracts and essential oils (Bergamot, Petitgrain, and Lavender), to help with anxiety hyper tension and stress.

Resteasy Herbal Supplement

A nightly herbal supplement composed of Passionflower, Valerian Root, California Poppy, and Lavender! Promotes deep and restorative sleep.

Nite-Cap Roll-on 

A roller supplement of Chamomile and Lavender that promotes rest when applied to skin.



Source:
Battaglia, Salvatore. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. Black Pepper Creative, 2018.



The statements made in this informational presentation have not been evaluated by the FDA
 (U.S. Food & Drug Administration). 
These products are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be used as a
substitute for medical care.