The name lavender comes from the Latin root lavare, which means "to wash". It may be because it was frequently used in Roman baths to help purify the body and spirit. Lavender has been in documented use for over 2,500 years as a remedy for a range of ailments from insomnia to anxiety, hyperactivity, flatulence, bacteria, fungus, airborne molds and microbial activity on gums and for repelling insects. It was even used by the Egyptians for mummification and cited in the Bible (by its Greek name spikenard) as the ointment used to wash Jesus’ feet.
