In Love with Lavender

Lavender…what's not to love? From its small violet flowers to its relaxing aroma, lavender has always been a favorite ingredient used in soaps and other bath products. In fact, the name lavender comes from the Latin root lavare, which means "to wash."

Lavender may have earned this name because it was frequently used in baths to help cleanse the body but did you know lavender has many other beneficial properties?

Research has shown that lavender produces slight calming, soothing, and sedative effects when its scent is inhaled. Lavender is often used because of these soothing qualities and ability to promote deep sleep. It has also been used as a remedy for a range of ailments from anxiety to depression and fatigue. Another lesser known health benefit of lavender is its antibacterial and antiseptic properties. It has often been used to soothe and cleanse common cuts, bruises, and skin irritations.

Lavender is a great choice for anyone needing to relax, feel calmer, or fall asleep. I think that's most of us!

	Eye Pillow – Shape the lavender filled pillow over your eyes while gently breathing in the calming aroma. Block out the light and soothe away any tension.
	Lavender Bath Salt – Soak in a bath of sea salts infused with the soothing scent of lavender. The lavender scented sea salt can help ease muscle tension and soreness while relaxing the body and mind.
	Lavender Bubble Bath – Surround yourself with lavender scented bubbles to calm, restores, and cushion you from the stresses of the day.
	Bath Bomb – Try a fizzy bath treat topped with real lavender buds. Drop in a warm bath, sit back and breathe in the lovely lavender aroma.

• University of Maryland Medical Center: Lavender
• About.com: Stress Management “Aromatherapy Benefits: Scents for Stress Relief”