Its name was derived from the Latin verb "to wash" and both the Romans and Greeks scented their soaps and bathwater with the herb.  In the Middle Ages, lavender was considered the herb of love. 

Some think of it as the English garden herb, others think of the Lavender Alps in the south of France where the hills are alive with color and scent.  Lavender is a bushy, branching shrub, the stems of which often become a dense, woody tangle.  The flowers are small, lavender-purple and bloom in June and July.   It is native to the Mediteranean region, naturalized in the southern United States and is widely cultivated throughout the world.

Some scientific study revealed that lavender oil may have spasmolytic, antiseptic and carminative powers.  The Commission E approved the internal use of lavender for restlessness or insomnia and nervous stomach irritations, Roehmheld's syndrome, meteorism, and nervous intestinal discomfort.  It may be helpful as a treatment of functional circulatory disorders.   The German Standard License for lavender tea lists it for restlessness, sleeplessness, lack of appetite, nervous irritable stomach, meteorism, and nervous disorders of the intestines.  Lavender preparations are traditionally used to treat symptoms of neurotonic disorders, especially minor sleeplessness.  Rub a drop of lavender oil on your temples to help relieve a headache. 

Lavender is safe but should be used in moderation.  One teaspoon of flowers to a pint of water for infusions can be used as a mild sedative.  For eczema and psoriasis, add no more than two drops of oil to a cup of olive oil.  Add a few drops of this mixture in a hot bath to relieve neuralgia pain or sore feet.  Warm lavender tea can be applied as a compress for the relief of chest congestion. 

It is also used in perfumed products.  The leaves repel insects. 

Unless otherwise prescribed, Tea extract, and bath additive.  Internal:  Infusion: 1–2 teaspoons in 150 ml water.  Essential oil: 1–4 drops (approximately 20–80 mg).  Note: Combinations with other sedative or carminative herbs may be beneficial.