• Lavender is native to the Mediterranean, Middle East and India.
  • Lavender is a flowering perennial shrub in the Lamiaceae (mint) family.
  • Lavender has over 40 known species and numerous cultivars, which are grown worldwide.
  • Lavender is renowned for its fragrance and beauty and has numerous medicinal, culinary and other uses.
  • Egyptians used lavender oil for perfume and to mummify bodies.
  • The Romans used lavender oils for cooking, perfume and bathing: ‘lavender’ originates from the latin verb ‘lavare’ which means to wash.
  • The scent of lavender deters mice, flies, mosquitoes and other pests.
  • Lavender flowers represent purity, silence, devotion, serenity, grace, and calmness.
  • During the Great Plague in 17C London, lavender bunches were attached to clothing to protect against disease.
  • Grave-robbers washed in Four Thieves Vinegar, containing lavender, to prevent disease.
  • French glove makers in 16C France perfumed gloves with lavender to resist cholera.
  • Royalty loves lavender: Elizabeth I ate lavender conserve, and required fresh lavender flowers every day. Charles VI of France demanded lavender-filled pillows wherever he went. Louis XIV bathed in lavender water. Queen Victoria used lavender as a disinfectant, perfume and polish.