Lavender Flowers Whole (Lavandula Angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia

Lavender is a member of the mint family and is one of the most popular herbs in the world. In addition to outstanding beauty and fragrance, lavender is amazingly versatile in terms of practical uses. The whole dried flowers are added to teas, baked goods, and alcoholic beverages. The buds are also used to make various soaps, perfumes, skin salves, and other cosmetic preparations. Powdered lavender flowers are also used in cooking and in making cosmetics, especially where a smooth consistency is desired.

Cosmetic: Infuse in oil, water, or alcohol to produce various toiletries.

Decorative: Include herbal displays and floral crafts.

Culinary: Add to teas and seasoning blends.

Household: Use strong water or alcohol infusions to make natural home cleaning products.

Aromatic: Use in perfumery and in incense blends.

Lavender has long been used in love spells and sachets. Clothing nabbed with the fragrant flowers (or lavender placed in drawers with clothes) attracts love. A piece of paper on which you've rubbed lavender is excellent for writing love notes. The scent of lavender particularly attracts men, and lavender water or the essential oil was worn by prostitutes several centuries ago to both advertise their profession as well as to attract (through magic) customers. 

Lavender also protects against cruel treatment at the hands of a spouse if worn. These flowers are also burned or smoldered to induce sleep and rest and are scattered about the home to maintain its peacefulness. The plant is so powerful that, it is said, if when depressed one gazes upon the plant, all sorrow will depart and a joyous feeling will settle upon the observer. It is also said that the aroma of lavender is conducive to long life, and so should be smelled as often as possible. Lavender is also used in healing mixtures, carried to see ghosts, and worn to protect against the evil eye. It is added to purification baths. 

 A wish divination: Place lavender under your pillow while thinking of your wish. Do this just prior to retiring for the night. In the morning, if you have dreamt of anything relating to your wish, it will come true. However, if you did not have dreams, or if they were unconnected with your wish, it will not manifest. 

Gender: Masculine 

Planet: Mercury 

Element: Air 

Powers: Love, Protection, Sleep, Chastity, Longevity, Purification, Happiness, Peace