Lavender, also known as Lavandula angustifolia is better
known for its aromatherapy benefits, soothing, calming,
relaxing, and stimulating. Medicinally, Lavender is an
antitumoral, an analgesic, an anti-inflammatory and prevents
the build-up of sebum, a skin oil that bacteria feed on.
The French Scientist Rene Gatefosse was the first to
discover lavender's ability to promote tissue regeneration
and speed wound healing when he severely burned his arm in a
laboratory accident. Today, Lavender is still one of the
few essential oils to still be listed in the British
Pharmacopeia. Lavender is one of the few floras that is the
least allergenic, yet so versatile that it can be used in
body moisturizers, candles, and soaps. It is most certainly
a spa favorite and commonly used during aromatherapy
massages.
Lavender angustifolia is also known as Lavender, English
Lavender, or True Lavender. It is a small, herbaceous to
semi-woody, semi-evergreen perennial or perennial herb that
you might see along walkways, raised walls, or borders. It
is also often referred to as the "queen of herbs" for
gardens.
Lavandula translates as "to wash" referring to an extract of
Lavender being used as an oil in the bath. Angustifolia
translates as "narrow-leaved".
In the kitchen, Lavender is an incredibly versatile herb
for cooking. English Lavender (lavendula angustifolia)
has the sweetest fragrance of all the lavenders and is one
most commonly used in cooking. For salads, the lavender
flowers add a beautiful color. The spikes and leaves of
lavender can be used in most dishes in place of rosemary
in most recipes. Use the spikes or stems for making fruit
or shrimp kabobs. Just place your favorite fruit on the
stems and grill.
Take a look
at our selection of Lavender products, and our featured spa
recipe this month which is Seared Scallops with Lavender,
Lime and Champagne. Enjoy!
Welcome
to EclipseSpa's first newsletter! I would like to thank all
of you for your support and feedback while we launched. We
have made many great changes to the website during the last
several weeks. 
