Lavender is a versatile herb that is commonly used for its medicinal properties. It is known to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, antifungal, antidepressant, and sedative effects. The popularity of lavender as a natural remedy has led many people to grow this herb in their gardens. If you’re planning to harvest lavender for medicinal use, it’s important to know when the best time is to do so.
Harvesting Lavender
Timing
The best time to harvest lavender for medicinal use is during the plant’s peak flowering period. This typically occurs in mid to late summer when the flowers are in full bloom. Lavender flowers should be harvested when the individual flowers on each spike start to open. The spikes should be cut just above the leaves, taking care not to remove too much of the stem.
Location
Lavender plants grown in full sun tend to have higher levels of essential oils, making them ideal for medicinal use. Plants grown in partial shade may not yield as much essential oil and may not have as potent medicinal properties.
Drying
After harvesting, the lavender flowers should be dried as soon as possible to preserve their medicinal properties. The flowers should be spread out in a cool, dry place, such as a well-ventilated room or a shaded area outdoors. Once dry, the flowers should be removed from the stems and stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Uses of Lavender
Insomnia
Lavender is widely used for treating insomnia and other sleep disorders. Its sedative properties help to calm the mind and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Anxiety and Depression
Lavender is also commonly used to treat anxiety and depression. Its calming effects help to reduce feelings of anxiety and ease symptoms of depression.
Pain and Inflammation
Lavender is known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it an effective treatment for pain and inflammation. It can be used topically as a salve or oil or taken internally in the form of tea.
Skin Conditions
Lavender is also beneficial for treating various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties help to eliminate bacteria and fungi that can cause these conditions.
Lavender is a versatile herb that has many medicinal uses. If you’re planning to harvest lavender for medicinal use, timing is key. Harvest the flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them as soon as possible to preserve their medicinal properties. Once dried, use lavender to treat insomnia, anxiety and depression, pain and inflammation, and various skin conditions.
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Last update 2023-06-07. Price and product availability may change.