Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’
Jekkapedia
Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ , Lavender Hidcote
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Lavandula
Short spikes of dark violet flowers. Narrow, grey green, aromatic foliage. Culinary; add flowers and leaves sparingly to stews and to flavour sugar for use in puddings and baking.
Want to learn more? Read Jekka’s Guide to Lavender.
Characteristics:
Lavender Hidcote can be seen at the herb farm in Jekka’s Herbetum and is available to buy as both herb plants and online as herb seeds.
Details
Growing
• Indoor Sowing: In spring, into prepared plug trays or pots, cover with perlite. Bottom heat, 18°C, aids germination.
• Outdoor Sowing: In late spring, into a warm, well-drained fertile soil, sunny position. Thin to 45cm apart.
Medicinal
The lavender plant’s blue and fragrant flowers contain high levels of volatile oils and are instantly recognisable having long associations with beauty products, perfumery and medicinal uses. It has been used for centuries and has been included in British Pharmacopeia for over 200 years. As a herb, lavender’s mild sedative effect lends itself to easing the impact of stress on the body and is a gentle nerve tonic. It can be used to aid sleep, ease headaches, improve low mood, exhaustion and anxiety. Topically, the oil can be used as a rub to ease rheumatic pains.
Caution: Avoid internal use of the volatile oil. Do not use the undiluted oil on the skin. Always mix with a carrier oil before external use.
Please note: The information provided here is for educational interest only and is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat significant health problems. Any serious or long-term health concerns should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
See our blog for more information about the National Institute of Medical Herbalists
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