Lavender is a romantic dream. Imagine a field of blue lavender, with that gorgeous aroma, the buzz of the honey bee, the hum of the bumble bee all under a cobalt blue sky. How does that make you feel? Calm? Relaxed? If only you could bottle it! The use of lavender goes back as far as AD1 and is as popular today as it ever was. There are many varieties grown and the one most suited to Waiheke is Lavandin Intermedia Grosso, which is also grown in Provence and has a gorgeous purple colour. The Pure Essential Oil is like the soul of the plant (the dream…. bottled!) and, as a whole, cannot be reproduced synthetically. A gas chromatography test is used to validate the identity of the oil and measures numerous components to assure its effectiveness in aromatherapy applications. The main components are useful as a sedative, anti-fungal, mild anti-inflamatory, for the promotion of tissue formation and alleviating spasms. It can also be useful as an anti-septic, antibacterial, antiviral, diuretic and immuno-stimulant. As such, it is helpful for headaches, insomnia, anxiety, depression and stress. It can also be helpful for minor burns, sunburn, healing scars, bruises, blisters, insect bites, spots and pimples. Plus athletes foot, cuts, stings, skin rash and menstrual cramps. The oil is one of the few that can be used neat (undiluted) and is safe for babies, pregnant women and the elderly. For further information, please contact Eleanor Phone: (09) 372 6779 Email: waihekeblue@ihug.co.nz