Dried lavender is produced from the flowers of the lavender plant. The flowers are harvested from the stems of the plant and are dried using one of several drying methods. The most common is to hang the stems upside down in a cool, dark place for a few weeks. Dried lavender flowers are easily recognizable by their small, bluish color and bell-like shape.
Herbal Tea
Lavender tea is made from the dried flowers of the plant and can be store-bought or prepared at home. The tea from lavender flowers is known for its soothing, calming effects on the central nervous system. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lavender may alleviate some of the symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression. Its soothing properties are also useful to calm and ease sore throats and coughs associated with upper respiratory ailments such as the common cold, bronchitis and asthma. Steeping 1 tbsp. of dried lavender in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes results in a soothing, homemade herbal tea.
Sleep Aids
Lavender has been used for centuries by herbalists and in aromatherapy to promote restful sleep and alleviate insomnia. According to author Gloria Hander Lyons in her book "Lavender Sensations: Fragrant Herbs for Home and Bath," dried lavender flowers are used in homemade and store-bought sleep pillows to improve the quality of sleep. Placing a sachet filled with dried lavender under your pillow can serve the same purpose. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lavender tea may also help promote sleep because of its relaxing effect on the central nervous system.
Bath Uses
Lavender is soothing to dry, itchy and inflamed or irritated skin. Dried lavender flowers are an aromatic way to ease conditions such as chapped or flaky skin, eczema, acne and minor wounds. Most commonly, lavender flowers are combined with oatmeal in equal parts and poured into a muslin or cheesecloth bag to make soothing bath preparations.
Inhalation Therapy
Inhaling lavender flowers that are boiled in water can soothe respiratory ailments such as coughs and colds. The vapors produced by boiling the flowers can also help to ease headaches and insomnia. To use lavender inhalation therapy, place a handful of the dried flowers in a pot of boiling water. You inhale the vapors by removing the pot from heat, placing a towel over your head and breathing in the steam.
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