Special note: The following is for educational purposes only. The information is not meant to replace the consultation of a licensed health-care professional. This author and OCLC-CoG are not held responsible for the use or misuse of the information contained within this blog.

From ancient times until now, lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is one of the best known and highly utilized herbal plants.  Lavender’s scented oils are well-recognized for use in healing the physical and emotion body  –  and in magical practices. In ancient Egypt, linens dipped in lavender essential oils and natural asphalt were used in mummification.  During the Middle Ages, it was observed that people who regularly handled lavender were less susceptible to the effects of bubonic plague.  The use of lavender oils and essences continues to be famous in the perfume industry. Many poems, writings and spells refer to the magical properties of lavender.

Lavandula Angustifolia also known as English Lavender.

Background Information:

Family:  Lamiaceae.

Other common names:  Lavandula officinalis, Lavandula vera  [There are many varieties of lavender, however, we are discussing Lavandula angustifolia (“true” lavender)]

• Height: 2 to 3 feet.
• Color: blue/purple/light purple flowers.
• Odor:  fine and sweet; this variety does not have camphor.
• Habitat:  Mediterranean climate (natural habitat); grows best at higher altitudes of 3,600 ft or more.
• Parts used:  flowers, oils.
• Main constituents:  Composed of 170 known components; main ones are linalyl acetate and linalool.
• Medical aspects:  Actions:  sedative, tonic, nervine /  primarily affects nervous system and digestive system.  Lavender tea aids digestion and relieves gas; lavender bath salts aids sleep; lavender essential oils relax sore muscles; lavender essential oils can be applied directly to insect bites and burns; lavender essential oil can be applied directly to temples or misted in hydrosol to relieve headaches; lavender essential oil can be used aromatically (breathed in) or used in a diffuser to relieve tension. These are just a few of the many, many medicinal uses of lavender!
• Cultural Aspects: Globally, many cultures recognize these qualities of lavender
• Emotional assist:  Lavender instills courage during difficult times. It is grief-easing for any kind of loss; eases depression; relieves anxiety; inspires sensuality and beauty

Placing a lavender sachet in drawers or carrying lavender in one’s pocket increases self-esteem and personal power.  Create and use dream pillows scented with dried lavender flowers and a drop of essential oil to ensure “sweet dreams.” Lavender planted in the garden lifts a heavy heart and brings awareness to the sweetness and beauty of life

Magical Associations

• Masculine –  Planetary / Mercury  –  Air Element
• Magical body:  light lavender or purple coloring associated with brow and head
• Magical names:  Elf Leaf, Nard, Nardus, Spike, Spikenard (Biblical reference)
• Primary Astrology:  Gemini, Virgo
• Deity Associations / Primary:  Shango, Obatala, Ochun
• Magical Uses:  attracts masculine energies; increases the romance aspect of love; use lavender paper / lavender-scented paper to write love spells; lavender bath brings a sense of peace and calm especially before ritual; lavender mixed with rosemary reminds lovers of their mutual relationship and increases romance; lavender mixed with sandalwood and used as incense attracts positive spirits and disperses unwanted energies (often used as a house blessing).

RECIPE: 

Lavender.

SUMMER SOLSTICE BATH using essential oils and *Dr. Teal’s Epsom Salts or similar high-grade / therapeutic grade salts:
Per half cup of salts:   4 drops Geranium
4 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
2 drops Sandalwood
2 drops Myrrh (sweet)
Be sure to mix well, label with name and date and keep in closed amber or cobalt jar until used.

References

Berger, J. (1998) Herbal Rituals.  St. Martin’s Press  1998  Pg. 153 – 160.
Drew, A.J. (2005). A Wiccan Formulary and Herbal.  New Page Books, Pg. 101, 246 – 247.
Tisserand, M. and Junemann, M. (1996). The Magic and Power of Lavender. Lotus Light/Shangri-LA.