Lavender Honey

 Lavender honey is a treat. Not only does it taste amazing, it is also medicinal. Raw, unheated honey contains many nutrients and anti-oxidants. It is anti bacterial and anti-fungal. It is very soothing to the digestive tract. When applied externally it heals wounds and burns. Add in some herbs and you have even more health support and benefits. Infusing a honey is even easier than doing an oil. Fill 1/4 of clean jar with fresh herbs and the rest with honey. Strain out the herbs after 2 days. You can also powder (coffee grinder) dried herbs and whip them into honey using a food processor. You just use the pulse feature until the honey is no longer clear. 1-4 TBSP of dried herb to 1 cup of honey. If you whip there is no need to strain out the herbs. The honey will preserve them for a very long time. I like infused honey for recipes and whipped honey for immune support. It is great for kids added into hot milk or tea. Ideas for whipped honey-rose hips, calendula petals, turmeric, ginger, orange peel, berries, hibiscus, cinnamon, star anise, etc.

 Latin name: Lavandula (there are lots of species). Family: Laminacea (mint family). Lavender is an evergreen perennial shrub that can grow 1-4 ft high. Typically it appears as a smaller singular plant but in the right conditions it will spread and expand to fill a larger space. The entire herb is covered in a grayish down. At this time of year the plant shoots up a flowers in the form of a terminal spikes. The highly scented purple flowers form a group on the tip of their personal stalk. The narrow leaves are sparsely arranged oppositely on the square stem, often clustered at the base of the plant when not in bloom. This palnt is very easy to grow in most climate especially when given well drained, poor, sandy soil and full sun. Lavender is not native to the United States. It is very popular with bees and butterflies. The smell is the best way to remember this herb. Rub any part of it between your hands and smell your palms. This a a great beginner plant for children to learn.

If you don’t have Lavender in your yard, I bet you have neighbor who does. The pure essential oil is thought to be a great remedy for burns, cuts, tight muscles, rheumatism, edema, eczema, hair loss, acne, fungal infections, earache, cold sores, and insect bites/stings. This herb contains numerous volatile oils, many of which are powerful anti-microbials. It was used in WW 2 for wounds and parasites. It was burned for bubonic plague to prevent the spread of the disease. Historically steam inhalations, baths, and infusions have been used to treat chest infections, asthma, dizziness, insomnia, digestive issues, colic, fever, colds, flu, strep, yeast, vaginal infections, bad breath, headaches, fatigue, stress and anxiety. Lavender is often present at birth and death because of its calming nature. The flowers are edible and can be used in baked goods, and other sweets. You will find this herb in many gifts and beauty products.  

Contraindications: During pregnancy. Do not use the essential oil internally. Do your research on using the pure EO on a frequent basis externally (including in creams and shampoos).