| Lavender
dates as far back as the Early Egyptians. They wrapped their dead
in lavender-dipped shrouds. The Ancient Greeks used lavender to fight
insomnia, insanity and aching backs. But, the Romans used lavender
in public baths, which is where it gets it's name: from the Latin
term Lavare: meaning to wash. It is very likely that the Romans brought
lavender to Britain (Anglo Saxons).
During the Middle Ages, Benedictine Monks used lavender as a medicine.
London Peddlers hawked it as a charm against evil (and as an aphrodisiac).
It was also used as a plague remedy. (It is still used today to
keep mice away.)
During the Renaissance, lavender became ornamental and was used
for low hedges.
The Victorians used lavender for gardens, and were the first to
bring the plant inside. They made furniture polish (Lavender Wax),
and washed floors and linens with lavender water. They also used
lavender to repel moths. During this era, lavender started showing
up in crafts: lavender wands, sachets, etc.
During World War I, lavender moved to the front line and was used
as an antiseptic. It was discovered to be good for skin wounds and
burns; it helps bug bites and helps the skin heal more quickly.
Today, France has replaced Britain as the world leader of the lavender
trade. Annually, the French produce over one thousand tons of essential
oil. To give you an idea of the import of this fact: it takes 80
pounds of lavender to make 1 ounce of oil; it is very concentrated.
In France, Lavender is everywhere: dish soap, laundry detergent,
and household cleaners. It is not a luxury, but an everyday useful
ingredient.
In 1999, lavender was named the "Herb of the Year" by
the International Herb Association.
|
