Lavender

Family: Lamiaceae
Genus & Species: Lavandula angustifolia 
Common Names: Lavender, English Lavender, True Lavender
Overview: The name Lavender refers to a group of 30 different species of perennial herbs. These incredibly aromatic members of the mint family are native to regions bordering the Mediterranean. [1] Of these different species, the most common form grown in North America is L. angustifolia, or English Lavender. Don’t let the name fool you though, this species is not, in fact, native to England, but to the Mediterranean . [2] Lavender’s name originates from the Latin word “lavare”, meaning “to wash”, as the herb was often associated with cleanliness and was widely used in Roman baths. [3] Modern research into the therapeutic properties of lavender and its essential oil thoroughly support lavender’s classical role in herbal medicine. It has been shown to be an effective treatment for mild depression, insomnia and pain. [4]
Therapeutic Properties: Analgesic, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, antidepressant, anti-hypertensive, anxiolytic, cholagogue, nervine, rubefacient, sedative, vulnerary [3,4]   
Typical Uses: There is a wide variety of ways to experience lavender’s  benefits for the mind and body. The herb’s essential oil can be diffused into the air to calm the nerves and uplift the spirit. This can be done by using the oil in a diffuser or it can even be added to a hot bath for a deeply relaxing soak. Additionally, a few drops of lavender essential oil can be combined with a carrier oil and massaged into the feet for a stronger pain relieving and sedating effect. [4] Lavender can also make a delicious and aromatic tea that can offer many of the same benefits. [3]

References:

1. Lavender | Encyclopedia Britannica 

2. Lavender Main Types | Gardenia

3. Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia) | Herb Rally

4. Lavender and the Nervous System | PubMed Central®