LOVE lavender? You’re in luck.
The scented garden favourite is in flower and not just good for Grandma.
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With these helpful hints, make the magic last year round . . .
TO DRY FOR: For dried lavender, cut long stems then tie them together with ribbon and hang upside down to dry for at least two weeks until the stems break cleanly in two, rather than bend.
Once they are dry you can use them in different ways, from a long-lasting dried-flower arrange-ment to soothing lavender oil.
HOME SPA: Once fully dried out, hang your lavender bundle upside down in the bathroom, along with a few sprigs of dried eucalyptus.
The steam from the shower will then release the scent, giving you a special spa experience in your own home.
DIVINE DROPS: Making your own lavender oil will leave you feeling relaxed.
Place the dried lavender stems in a sealed jar filled with olive oil.
Leave on a window sill for a week or two, shaking occasionally, then strain through muslin or cheesecloth.
Return the liquid to a clean, sterilised jar and store in a cool, dark place.
Use as a massage oil or rub a drop on your pulse points to help you sleep.
STEAM DREAM: No fresh or dried lavender?
No problem. Holland & Barrett has Miaroma lavender pure essential oil, 10ml, for £6.50, buy one and get another half price.
Lavender is one of the most popular essential oils, renowned for helping people relax, snooze, and also to ward off insects.
Add a few drops to a water diffuser to feel the benefits.
You can also add a few drops to a hankie and breathe in to ease anxiety, or use the same method on your pillow to help you sleep.
SCENTED BAGS: There is absolutely nothing wrong with sticking to tradition, and a divinely scented lavender bag is still one of life’s little pleasures, especially if you make your own.
Why not visit one of the growing number of lavender farms around the country this summer to stock up on some fresh or dried lavender to make your own, using scraps of material.
Stick to two parts lavender, one part rice, to give your bags a little weight.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
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