Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Derived from the Latin verb “to wash”, both the Greeks and Romans scented their soaps and bath waters with the herb. Lavender eases tension and depression, relaxes and balances mind and body, soothes tired muscles and encourages stillness and tranquility.

Its name was derived from the Latin verb "to wash" and both the Romans and Greeks scented their soaps and bathwater with the herb. In the Middle Ages, Lavender was considered the herb of love.

Some think of it as the English garden herb, others think of the Lavender Alps in the south of France where the hills are alive with color and scent. Lavender is a bushy, branching shrub, the stems of which often become a dense, woody tangle. The flowers are small, Lavender-purple and bloom in June and July. It is native to the Mediterranean region, naturalized in the southern United States and is widely cultivated throughout the world.

Lavender is bound to Mercury and Air. Because of its delightful fragrance and its light, flowery taste, it has been used for thousands of years for its calming, peaceful, and sedating effects. It is often included in love spells and rituals because of its attractive scent, and is used as an ingredient in spells for attracting money.

For love, peace and good health, place Lavender flowers in a sachet to be carried on the person. Carrying a sachet or amulet containing Lavender is also said to attract spirits or other worldly entities. Fresh flowers can be rubbed on clothing for attracting love. For peaceful sleep, use a few drops of essential oil on the sheets or pillows before bed. For relaxation, purification baths, or aromatherapy purposes, run bathwater over fresh sprigs or place a few drops of oil in the bath. If bathing is not convenient, simply apply its essential oil or breathe in the scent from a bottle of essential oil for the same effects. Make a tea from fresh or dried Lavender flowers for relaxation, peace, health, longevity, protection, and love; however, do not use a tea directly before a night of passion, as due to its relaxant and sedative properties, it will decrease sex drive.

Dried Lavender stalks burn like incense sticks, and can be included in spells and rituals aimed at attracting money, love, protection, and success. Individual flowers can also be dried and burned similarly for the same purposes.

For sleep divination, place Lavender sprigs under the pillow before bed while thinking about your desire. If you dream about anything related, you will get what you desire.