Lavender (Lavandula) is a fragrant, flowering plant that looks stunning in any outdoor garden. Beautiful in its simplicity, its tiny purple flowers make a perfect companion for many popular outdoor garden plants. It’s not only possible to grow lavender indoors, but there are many reasons you should make this heavenly herb a permanent houseguest. Here are six reasons to grow lavender in your home.

It Makes a Soothing Sleep Aid

Lavender and open book on bed

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There’s a lot of historical and research-based evidence demonstrating the effects of lavender on sleep. For centuries, people have been stuffing bedding and pillows with dried lavender, thanks to its noticeable calming effects. Many studies, including one at Wesleyan University, have shown lavender’s effectiveness on slowing down sleep waves and increasing morning alertness.

You’ll find the scent in luxury sleep products like eye-pillows and bed mists, but you can get the same effects for a fraction of the price! Keep a pot of fresh lavender on your bedside table to have heavenly aromas while you slumber.  

It Helps with Anxiety 

Lavender and crystals

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Although lavender is not a substitute for therapy or medication, placing a planter in your workspace or family room can help clear your mind. This lovely plant brings a sense of serenity to any space.

Not only does lavender help with sleep quality, but it can also improve your state of mind during waking hours. Its sweet, floral scent can induce an "anxiolytic effect," easing emotional symptoms of stress and anxiety. This is similar to its physical benefits like relieving muscle tension.

It's Easy to Care For

Lavender sprigs on white backdrop

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As far as indoor plants go, lavender is a relatively low-maintenance one to take care of inside your home. With a little bit of research, you can easily master the art of growing lavender indoors.

Lavender doesn’t require a large pot, and only needs about an extra inch of soil around the roots to thrive. It also doesn’t need a rich soil, and adding some coarse sand or gravel to the bottom will allow for excellent drainage. In the winter months, the plants like to rest and don’t produce much new growth. This means they need less water and don’t need fertilizer until the spring.

Keep them in a well-lit area, away from drafts and heaters, and enjoy their benefits with little effort. 

It's a Natural Air Freshener 

White vase with lavender flowers in the interior decor of the living room in light colors with blue color
White vase with lavender flowers in the interior decor of the living room in light colors with blue color

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Few people could use a little help keeping the air fresh and fragrant inside the home. With pets, cooking odors, gym equipment, and whatever else, there’s always a reason to clear the air. Rather than using chemical scents or expensive candles, a purposefully placed pot of lavender will do wonders for creating a welcoming aroma in your home. Have a pot by the front door to ensure everyone who enters your home is greeted by the scent of lavender, and not something else. Because it's a soft and soothing scent, it’s sure to appeal to guests and family members alike. 

It's a DIY Dream 

Lavender and teacup

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There is no limit to the creations you can concoct using lavender, and regular pruning will keep your plant fresh and flowery. To preserve the scent, it's best harvested when you see a few flowers emerging from the buds. Cut the stems long and allow them to dry out for a few weeks in a dark, cool spot in your home, before storing them in a lidded jar. Use the dried buds in homemade sachets, candles, or balms.

You can even keep a pot in your kitchen to inspire lavender flavored recipes for food and teas; Chop a sprig for a homemade floral arrangement or drink garnish. Having the plant in your home, at the ready, will only aid and inspire your lavender DIY ideas.

There are Many to Choose From 

Young Woman Smelling Lavender Flowers in Garden

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There are over 45 species  and 450 different varieties of lavender to be enjoyed. From English Lavender, to French, Portuguese, and Spanish, and hundreds of further sub-varieties, lavender is a versatile plant you’ll never get sick of. Some options are more fragrant than others while some are better for certain climates or seasons.

When in the kitchen, English lavender is known for the best taste. If you're making dried arrangements Gros Bleu is recommended. Picking the right lavender for your home, wherever you’re located, can be a fun and rewarding task. 

Live, Love, Laugh-ender

There are so many reasons to love lavender, and so many ways to harness its qualities (and superpowers) inside the home. This winter, and beyond, you can bring the beauty of the garden indoors, and your eyes, nose, and mind will certainly thank you.

Have a lavender plant in your home? Let us know your thoughts on the topic below!