Lidl is introducing a new selection of Special Buys this week, including a range of flowers and plants. Among the offerings is a six-pack of potted lavender priced at £4.99, available from Thursday, August 20.
Shoppers can also purchase pots of cyclamen, celosia, calathea and ornamental grass as part of the Middle Aisle offers.
Lavender's Therapeutic Benefits
In the product description, Lidl says: "Perfect for attracting bees and butterflies. Plant in pots or borders. Height: 16-20cm. Six pack."
Beyond its striking purple blossoms, lavender has been celebrated for centuries for its profound therapeutic benefits. For those struggling to unwind, research suggests the soothing fragrance of lavender acts as a natural remedy for stress and anxiety.
Using lavender in aromatherapy can help soothe the nervous system and boost your mood. However, it is more effective as a supportive tool rather than a treatment for serious anxiety disorders.
Scientific Evidence on Sleep and Anxiety
A comprehensive meta-analysis conducted in 2019 revealed that people with anxiety disorders who consumed 160-milligram lavender oil capsules saw notable reductions in their anxiety levels. Similar findings have been reported in other studies. For instance, a 2015 study included 60 participants in a coronary intensive care unit. The researchers discovered that those who received lavender essential oil treatment experienced reduced anxiety and improved sleep quality.
Scientific research shows that inhaling lavender can lower heart rate and blood pressure, shifting the nervous system into a relaxed state. The plant is also one of the most trusted natural sleep aids available.
Incorporating Lavender into Your Routine
Incorporating lavender into your evening routine—whether by placing a potted plant in the bedroom or using it as aromatherapy—has been shown to enhance sleep quality. Research shows it can help people fall asleep faster and increase the duration of deep sleep, ensuring you wake up feeling truly refreshed.
A study from 2015 found that people who used lavender aromatherapy reported feeling more refreshed when they woke up. Additionally, a 2010 study involving people with anxiety disorders showed that taking lavender oil by mouth helped them sleep for a longer duration at night.
Growing Tips from the RHS
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) recommends planting lavender in a sunny area that receives plenty of light, in soil that drains well and is neutral to alkaline. It stresses the importance of avoiding soggy winter soils and dense shade, and suggests pruning right after the flowers fade in late summer to keep the plant from becoming leggy. It is important to avoid cutting into old, bare wood.
