Lavender is an evergreen perennial closely associated with southern France but which also grows throughout the mountain regions of the Mediterranean, East Africa and world-wide, including the U.S. There are more than 20 different species of lavender, hybrids and cultivars which differ in flower, color and fragrance.
Lavandula angustifolia is the most widely grown type of lavender in North America. It's the kind of lavender that doesn't mind the humidity and winter moisture of an English climate as much as other lavenders, hence its common name, English lavender. There are many varieties of English Lavender commonly used in cooking and baking. Essential oils derived from English Lavender have a sweet, soft fragrance.
Lavender is calming and relaxing and can help you (or your little ones) drift off into a peaceful sleep. It helps to relieve burns including sunburn. Lavender helps to relieve itches and irritations and the essential oil in a carrier oil or cream base is a great moisturizer, helping to soften and add a glow to your skin.