Greeting Your Guests with Lavender

In the days gone by, it was quite important to plant special plants about the doorway to great guests. Many of these plants were chosen to try and stave away the plague and other forms of sickness. One of such herbs used was lavender. In addition to forming a nice sized hedge and having lovely blue flowers, that seem to glow enemas, lavender is highly aromatic, even when it is not in flower. It was a popular plant for cutting and herb gardens, likely because it could be used in so many applications. Especially in the bug repellent department and to keep linens smelling fresh. Other uses included perfumed waters, sleep pillows and as dried, hanging arrangement.

These hanging arrangements of dried lavender, frequently formed into a broom or wand were very popular next to or over top of the doorway. They still can be used in such a area to welcome guests into your home. Like potpourri, they can be easily refreshed by adding a few drops of essential oil to the arrangement and letting it seep in a few days, in a closed container before placing it back out to scent a room. To create a broom simply take dried lavender which has a good, long stem still attached. 100 stems will usually work quite well. Taking a rubber band or twist ties, secure the bundle well. Then, to add extra beauty and to cover the fasteners, wrap a pretty ribbon about the stems. Rafata can also work very well. Hang this up right next your doorway or take two and place them over your doorway.

Another great idea is to set up an indoor fountain right by your doorway and add essential oil of lavender to the water. Yet another way is to take dried lavender flowers (without the stems) and place them in a large bowl on a small side table. Punch bowls of all things work great! To refresh or enhance the effect of the dried lavender, add essential oils. These can include other synergistic oils such as rose and vanilla (almost any other floral or green scent will work). All of these ways to use lavender will not only invite guests into your home but also help kill air born germs and to keep unwelcome guests, such as bugs at bay. Instead of buying generic potpourri, try some dried lavender and see the difference.

-MAM

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