by C Sawyer
Lavender is a versatile plant with numerous culinary, medicinal, and decorative uses. Adding lavender to your garden brings beauty and fragrance from late spring to fall. Many species and hybrids exist, but some common varieties are easy to propagate. How does it grow and where?
Growing Conditions and Varieties:
- Climate Zones:
- English Lavender (Zones 5-8): (Lavandula angustifolia) This popular variety thrives in cooler climates and is known for its hardiness and sweet fragrance. Popular varieties include Hidcote, Munstead, and Buena Vista.
- Lavandin Hybrids (Zones 5-10): These late-blooming hybrids of English Lavender are known for their high essential oil content, large leaves, and fast growth.
- French Lavender (Zone 8): (Lavandula dentata) This fast-growing variety has beautiful purple-blue flowers and prefers warmer regions. Some varieties are grown as annuals. French lavender has a light fragrance with hints of rosemary.
- Spanish Lavender (Zones 7-10): (Lavandula stoechas) Spanish lavender tolerates humidity better than other varieties and has unique, cone-shaped flowers. It’s a good choice for focal points and containers.
- General Tips:
- English lavender prefers cooler climates (Zone 5 and above) but may need winter protection.
- Spanish and French lavender are better choices for hot, humid climates. Good spacing is essential.
- Container growing is an option for harsh winters. Provide at least 8 hours of sunlight and well-draining potting mix. Containers can be brought indoors during winter.
Seeds or Transplants?
You can grow lavender from seeds or by transplanting store-bought plants.
- Transplants: Choose healthy-looking plants and place them in a location with full sun for 8 hours a day. Water consistently until established. Prune annually in spring.
- Seeds: Growing from seed takes up to three years for usable plants. Seed indoors for consistent temperature and moisture. Plant seeds 1 inch apart, barely covered with potting mix. Keep the container moist and warm (65-70°F).
- Hardening Off: Once seedlings reach 2-3 inches, gradually increase light exposure to prepare them for outdoors. Once acclimated, transplant them to well-drained soil with full sun.
For More Information:
by C Sawyer
Hair Loss? Discover the Power of Lavender Oil
Hair thinning and loss are common concerns. A good hair care routine is essential, whether for prevention or treatment. Natural solutions, like essential oils, can be a valuable addition. Try Lavender for Soft and Luscious Hair!
Lavender Oil: Nature’s Hair Growth Booster
Derived from a natural source, lavender oil encourages hair follicles to produce thicker, faster-growing hair. This versatile oil has a long history in beauty and health, including softening hair and reducing split ends.
Studies on lavender oil for hair growth show promising results. Both animal and human trials have found increased hair growth rates and overall hair volume. These findings suggest lavender oil may be helpful for hair thinning and pattern baldness. While human research is ongoing, many lavender hair products are already available.
Beyond Growth: Lavender’s Scalp Benefits
Research also reveals lavender oil’s anti-microbial properties, helping fight bacteria and fungi on the scalp. Additionally, lavender has been used for centuries to treat skin inflammation. Studies confirm its effectiveness for scalp issues, including dryness and itchiness, by reducing inflammation and promoting faster healing.
In Summary:
- Lavender oil promotes thicker, faster hair growth.
- It softens hair and reduces split ends.
- Lavender’s anti-microbial properties benefit scalp health.
- The oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can help with dry and itchy scalp.
Unlock the potential of your hair with lavender! Lavender for Soft and Luscious Hair. Visit our Shop to find luxurious lavender body and skin care products. Follow our Blog for more insight into the power of lavender.
by C Sawyer
The art of any good anti-aging routine requires detoxification. The best products to trust your skin with should be all-natural and non-toxic, which makes lavender oil a great candidate.
How do you choose a Lavender oil skin care product?
With so many skin care benefits, lavender is infused into many skin products, but not all products are created equal.
The most important factor in choosing lavender products for your skin care routine is the words “natural” and “organic.” It is important to look at the ingredients! A long list of unpronounceable chemical names on the back label is a good indication that the product is not “natural” as it is often advertised. The product ingredients should all be natural additives and herbal extracts that are tested and proven to be beneficial for skin care.
Also, keep in mind that you should order lavender products from distributors that are the “hands-on” experts in lavender—from growing to harvesting to product creation.
Detoxifying Effects of Lavender
With natural balancing effects, Lavender bath products such as gels, and Belvedere Lavender Goats Milk Bath or Lavender Salt Body Scrub are extremely beneficial in detoxifying your skin.
Lavender’s Anti-Aging Properties Prevent Wrinkles
Lavender is a fantastic source of antioxidants that fight free radical damage. Free radicals can cause damage to parts of cells, such as proteins. That means lavender can help protect against wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
Check out our full line of skin care here and FEEL GOOD about your skin care. The art of any good anti-aging routine starts with Belvedere Lavender.
All products in this blog are available at Belvedere Lavender and more blog post can be read on our Blog page.
by C Sawyer
What is Self Care and How Can I Practice It?
One of the most wonderful things you can do for yourself is set aside a few minutes to practice self-care.
What is self-care?
Self-care is simply taking the time to care for yourself. It’s about prioritizing your well-being and doing things that make you feel good. This could be anything from taking a long bath to spending time in nature.
How do I start practicing self-care?
Self-care is personal and unique to each individual. Start by asking yourself:
- What do I enjoy?
- What makes me feel relaxed and happy?
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Enjoy a long soak in the bathtub. Add bath salts, essential oils, or bubbles to enhance the experience. Relax with our Goat’s Milk Bath, nourish your skin and soul.
- Exfoliate your skin with a body scrub. This will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Our Coffee Body Scrub will gently exfoliate, tighten and smooth, leaving you feeling refreshed!
- Pamper yourself with a pedicure or manicure.
- Create an at-home spa experience. Light candles, play relaxing music, and indulge in a face mask.
- Try a gift set or bundle. These often include a variety of products designed to promote relaxation and well-being. We have Bundles for everyone’s needs and price range, they even make the perfect gift.
Remember, self-care is not selfish. It’s essential for maintaining your physical and mental health. So make time for yourself and enjoy the benefits!
While you practice some self-care, feel free to read more Lavender Blogs or browse our Shop for the perfect lavender companion.
by C Sawyer
Sleep Well During the Holidays (and All Year Long!)
The holidays can be a stressful time. We often feel overwhelmed trying to do it all, and that can really impact our sleep. But quality sleep is so important for our overall health, especially during this busy season.
It’s easy to get caught up in negative self-talk, especially when we’re trying to relax before bed. But don’t worry, here are some tips to help you maximize your sleep during the holidays and beyond:
1. Stick to a Schedule
Go to bed and wake up around the same time each day, even on weekends and holidays. This helps regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
2. Listen to Your Body
When you feel tired, go to bed! Don’t toss and turn for hours waiting to fall asleep.
3. Take a Break
If you can’t fall asleep after 20 minutes, get up and do something relaxing until you feel sleepy.
4. Avoid Stimulants and Depressants
Nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol can all interfere with sleep. Avoid them for at least 4-6 hours before bedtime.
5. Make Your Bedroom a Sleep Sanctuary
Use your bed only for sleep and intimacy. Avoid working, eating, or watching TV in bed.
6. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
Develop a calming pre-sleep ritual to wind down. This could include stretching, meditation, reading, or taking a warm bath.
7. Enjoy a Soothing Bath
A hot bath an hour or two before bed can help you relax and prepare for sleep.
8. Get Moving
Regular exercise can improve sleep quality. Aim for morning or afternoon workouts, and avoid strenuous activity close to bedtime.
9. Eat a Balanced Diet
What you eat can affect your sleep. Enjoy a balanced diet throughout the day and have a light snack before bed. A warm glass of milk can be especially helpful.
10. Don’t Clock Watch
Constantly checking the clock can increase anxiety and make it harder to fall asleep. Turn your clock away from your bed.
By following these tips, you can prioritize sleep and enjoy a more restful and rejuvenating holiday season. Read up on other selfcare tips and explore our range of luxury lavender products to help you take care of what matters most, you!
by C Sawyer
Lavender has long been recognized for its therapeutic properties. Here are some ways you can incorporate lavender into your wellness routine:
Aromatherapy
Topical Application
Culinary Use
Other Uses
Remember:
- Consult a healthcare professional: If you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant, consult with a healthcare professional before using lavender.
- Patch test: Before applying lavender oil to your skin, do a patch test to check for any allergic reactions.
- Quality products: Ensure you are using high-quality lavender essential oil or products.
By incorporating lavender into your wellness routine, you can experience its many benefits and promote overall well-being. Check our other Blog post to find more healthcare and selfcare articles!
