Lavender Lady

03/16/2026

Homemade Tiger Balm for muscle relief
The Ingredients: What You’ll Need

• 1/4 cup almond oil
• 1/4 cup coconut oil *
• 1 tablespoon beeswax
• 5 drops clove essential oil
• 5 drops peppermint essential oil
• 5 drops lavender essential oil
• 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 5 drops rosemary essential oil

These ingredients work together to create a silky, soothing rub that will melt into your skin and provide relief.

Beeswax solidifies the mixture and provides a protective barrier. Almond and coconut oils carry the essential oils, ensuring they’re properly absorbed without irritation.

Each essential oil has unique properties that contribute to the overall effectiveness of the rub.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Your Muscle Rub
Making this muscle rub at home is a breeze, even if you’re new to DIY skincare products. Follow these simple steps:

1. Melt the oils and beeswax: Combine the almond, coconut, and beeswax in a double boiler or heat-safe jar in boiling water. Stir occasionally until everything is fully melted.
2. Cool slightly: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for about three minutes.
3. Add essential oils: Once cooled slightly, add your essential oils—clove, peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus, and rosemary—and whisk thoroughly.
4. Let it set: Pour the mixture into small containers or mason jars and let it sit at room temperature for 45-60 minutes until it solidifies.
Once set, your muscle rub is ready to use! Store it in a cool, dry place. If no water enters the container, it can last up to six months.

Why These Essential Oils Work

Each essential oil in this recipe serves a specific purpose in easing muscle pain and inflammation:

• Peppermint oil: Known for its cooling sensation due to menthol, peppermint helps reduce inflammation and provides immediate relief.
• Lavender oil: A calming oil that not only relaxes muscles but also helps reduce stress—perfect after a long day.
• Eucalyptus oil: It contains eucalyptol, which has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and soothe sore muscles.
• Clove oil: Offers warming effects that help stimulate circulation and relieve pain.
• Rosemary oil: Eases pain and improves circulation, making it an excellent addition to muscle recovery.

These oils don’t just mask the pain; they work to heal the affected areas by reducing inflammation and promoting circulation.

Whether you’re dealing with post-workout soreness or general muscle tension from daily activities, this DIY rub can provide much-needed relief.

How to Use Your DIY Muscle Rub

• Massage into sore areas: Gently massage the rub into your muscles after exercising or at the end of the day.
• Pair with heat therapy:Apply the rub before using a heating pad or warm bath for even better results.
• Store properly: To ensure it lasts as long as possible, keep your muscle rub in an airtight container in a cool place.

This DIY muscle rub is perfect for anyone looking for a natural way to relieve sore muscles without relying on synthetic products. It’s easy to make, affordable, and highly effective—plus it smells amazing!

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, herbalist, aromatherapist, or chemist—just someone sharing what works for me. Always consult your doctor before using any DIY recipes or essential oils, especially if pregnant. This rub should last about six months if kept dry, as water can cause mold.

From thenatureofhome.com
by Davin Eberhardt

*From Lavender Lady: as coconut oil can dry your skin, I suggest replacing it with jojoba oil. You may need to add additional beeswax to achieve the desired consistency.

03/14/2026

It is well known that heat helps soothe inflammation and increases blood circulation to provide healing and pain reduction. Soaking in a bath loosens up soft tissues that may be inflamed and reactive to joint pain. It also allows for increased blood flow throughout the whole body. Using Epsom salts and specific oils, you can bring relief not only to your body but the mind as well through the effects of aromatherapy.
* 1-2 cups Epsom bath salts
* 5 drops rosemary
* 3 drops cypress
* 4 drops lavender
* 6 drops wintergreen

Mix well into your bathwater, or you create a larger batch for storage and pour a cup or 2 into your bath for a minimum of a 20-minute soak. You can also add in sea salt and/or baking soda – both of which help detox your body, open pores, and make your skin feel soft and clean.

03/14/2026

It’s Pi Day! Why not celebrate with this elegant and tasty pie from mintypan.com? By Sarah Miller.

Silky Honey Lavender Custard Pie Recipe with a Floral Twist
By
Sarah Miller
December 24, 2025

So you’re craving something elegant and cozy at the same time—like fancy tea party vibes but also curl-up-on-the-couch energy?
Same. That’s exactly where Honey Lavender Custard Pie walks in, wearing a soft cardigan and carrying a bouquet of calm.

It’s floral, creamy, lightly sweet, and honestly? Way easier than it sounds. Don’t let the lavender scare you—it’s not soap, it’s magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the crust:
* 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought—no judgment)
For the custard filling:
* 1 ½ cups whole milk
* ½ cup heavy cream
* 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds (not the candle kind, please)
* ½ cup honey (use a mild one so it doesn’t overpower everything)
* 4 large eggs
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional but lovely:
* Extra lavender buds or whipped cream for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions
2. Preheat and prep.�Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges like you know what you’re doing—or like you don’t, both are fine.
4. Infuse the milk.�In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, honey, and lavender buds. Warm gently over medium heat until steaming, not boiling. Turn off heat and let it steep for 10 minutes so the lavender can do its thing.
6. Strain and cool slightly.�Strain out the lavender buds and discard them. Let the infused milk cool for a few minutes—hot milk plus eggs equals scrambled eggs, and no one wants that.
8. Whisk the custard base.�In a bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla until smooth. Slowly pour in the warm milk mixture while whisking constantly. Go slow. This is not a race.
10. Fill the crust.�Pour the custard filling into the prepared pie crust. Tap the dish gently to release air bubbles because we’re classy like that.
12. Bake gently.�Bake for 40–45 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Think “Jell-O wobble,” not “liquid panic.”
14. Cool completely.�Let the pie cool at room temperature, then chill for at least 2 hours. Custard pies need beauty sleep too.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
* Using too much lavender. More is not better here. You want subtle floral notes, not a spa facial.
* Skipping the straining step.Lavender buds in your custard will feel…confusing.
* Overbaking. A cracked custard is a sad custard. Pull it when the center still jiggles slightly.
* Pouring hot milk into eggs too fast. That’s how you accidentally invent lavender scrambled eggs. Rookie mistake.

from mintypan.com

03/14/2026

Happy Pi Day! Heres a recipe to help you celebrate the moment!

Lavender Infused Lemon Meringue Pie
Ofbatteranddough.com

Ingredients
* 1 pre-baked pie shell
* 2tsps. dried lavender buds
* 1 ¼ cup boiling water
* 1 ¼ cup granulated sugar
* ⅓ cup cornstarch
* ⅛ teaspoon salt
* ⅔ cup cold water
* ¾ cup lemon juice
* 4 large egg yolks
* 2 tablespoon butter, cut into ½ inch pieces
* 1 ½ teaspoon lemon extract - OR ¾ teaspoon lemon oil
FOR THE MERINGUE:
* 4 egg whites
* ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
* ⅛ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup superfine sugar
* ½ tablespoon cornstarch
* ¼ cup water
Instructions
1. Put the lavender buds in a small bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Stir gently to mix and let seep for about 15 minutes.
2. In a medium, heavy bottom sauce pan, whisk the sugar, cornstarch and salt to combine. Slowly stir in ⅔ cup cold water, whisking the whole time.
3. Add the lemon juice and egg yolks and whisk to combine.
4. Strain the lavender from the hot water. Discard the lavender. Pour the lavender water slowly into the lemon mixture, whisking the entire time.
6. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring with a spoon the entire time. When the mixture begins to boil, reduce heat to medium-low and cook and stir for 1 minute longer. Don't over cook.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and the lemon extract. Pour filling into crust. Press a piece of plastic wrap over the filling to prevent a skin from forming and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
After the filing has cooled completely, make the meringue:
1. Preheat the oven to 375.
2. With an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until frothy and then sprinkle in the cream of tarter and salt. Continue to beat the egg whites until it's starting to look a bit glossy and then sprinkle in the sugar.
3. Beat the meringue until stiff peaks form (if you lift the be**er from the egg whites, peaks will form that do not fall).
4. Mix the cornstarch and water in a small sauce pan over medium-high heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture has thickened into a gel. Cook 30 seconds more and remove from heat.
5. With the mixer running, add the cornstarch gel slowly to the meringue, 1 teaspoon at a time.
6. Using a spatula, spread the meringue on the cooled pie filling, spreading it all the way to the edges of the pie crust. The meringue should be a bit thicker in the middle. If you like, using the spatula, create swirls or little spikes all over the pie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the meringue is a light golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for at least 5 minutes before slicing.�*This pie is best the day it is served, but it will keep, covered in the refrigerator, for up to 2 days.

03/13/2026

03/12/2026

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Oil Candles

Step 1: Prepare Your Jar with Decorative Elements
Select a small glass jar or Mason jar. Then, add your decorative elements directly into the jar, arranging them however you’d like. Some ideas include:
* Cinnamon sticks for a cozy aroma.
* Dried orange slices for a citrus scent and vibrant color.
* Rosemary sprigs for a natural green touch.
* Cranberries for a festive red color.
* Pine cones or dried flowers for a rustic look.

Step 2: Pour in the Oil
Once you’ve added the decorative elements, pour the oil into the jar until it’s about two-thirds full. Here are some recommended oils:
* Olive oil: Provides a subtle, clean scent and long burn.
* Sunflower oil: A budget-friendly, neutral-scented option.
* Canola oil: Widely available and odorless, ideal for a fragrance-free candle.

Step 3: Add and Position the Wick
For a Standard Wick Setup
Use a skewer or chopstick to gently press the wick into the jar, ensuring it reaches the bottom. Adjust the wick so that only about a quarter-inch is exposed above the oil surface. If necessary, trim the wick to fit the jar size.

For a Floating Wick Setup
If you use a jar with a large opening, you can use a floating wick; place it on the soil surface, allowing it to float. Floating wicks make it easy to adjust and refill the oil without repositioning. These floating wick disks are widely available online and make candle-making even simpler. Just place the floating wick on the oil surface and light it!

Step 4: Light and Enjoy
Your oil candle is now ready to light! Oil candles burn steadily, and you’ll only need to top up the oil occasionally

Safety Tips for Oil Candles
Follow these safety guidelines when using oil candles:
1. Never leave burning candles unattended.
2. Use heat-safe glass containers.
3. Keep the wick short: A shorter wick produces a steadier flame and minimizes smoke.
4. Avoid placing flammable decorations near the wick: Ensure decorative items are well-submerged in oil and away from the flame.
5. Store oil away from the candle flame.

Customization Ideas for Your Oil Candle
* Seasonal Scents: Add cloves, pine cones, or vanilla pods for winter.
* Citrus Freshness: Use lemon or orange slices for a vibrant look and light fragrance.
* Floral Elegance: For a floral touch, try dried lavender, rose petals, or eucalyptus leaves.

Choosing Non-Toxic Wicks for Your Oil Candles
Here are some of the best non-toxic options:
1. Cotton Wicks: 100% cotton wicks are a popular non-toxic choice, as they are free from chemicals and burn cleanly. Look for options labeled “lead-free” or “metal-free.”
2. H**p Wicks: H**p is another excellent natural material for wicks. H**p wicks are often coated with beeswax, which helps them burn slowly and steadily.
3. Wood Wicks: These are made from natural wood and produce a soft crackling sound. Make sure they are untreated and free of chemicals for a non-toxic burn.
Choosing any of these natural wicks, particularly those labeled as free from metals or synthetic treatments, ensures a clean, safe burn for your candles.

Sugarandcharm.com

Eden Passante

03/11/2026

Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookie Sandwiches with Easy Buttercream

Delicate, buttery shortbread cookies infused with lemon zest and dried lavender, sandwiched with a luscious lemon buttercream filling. These elegant cookies are perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated treat.

* Author: Luna Sterling
* Prep Time: 15 minutes
* Cook Time: 18 minutes
* Total Time: 45 minutes
* Yield: 24 sandwiches
* Category: Dessert
* Cuisine: American

Ingredients
* 1 cup (2 sticks / 226g) unsalted butter, softened
* ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
* 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds, finely crushed *
* 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from about 1 medium lemon)
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, softened (for buttercream)
* 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar, sifted
* 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for buttercream)
* ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
* A pinch of salt (for buttercream)

Instructions
1. Take the butter out early so it’s softened but not melting. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup (226g) of softened unsalted butter with ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of finely crushed dried lavender buds.
4. Sift together 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed or folding gently with a spatula until just combined.
5. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the dough out to about ¼-inch (6mm) thickness. Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Place the cookies about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
8. Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let cool fully before filling.
9. Beat ½ cup (113g) softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 1 ½ cups (180g) sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low until combined.
10. Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high for 2-3 minutes until fluffy and spreadable.
11. Spread or pipe a generous teaspoon of lemon buttercream onto the flat side of one cookie, then gently press another cookie on top to form a sandwich. Repeat with remaining cookies.
12. For firmer sandwiches, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before serving.

*note from Lavender Lady: for an easy way to crush your lavender buds, place them in a food processor with the sugar. Process to desired consistency. Always use culinary lavenders for baking or cooking. Remember, a little is a lot so you might want to cut the lavender by half for your first effort. Enjoy!

Notes
Chilling the dough before baking is essential for a perfect crumbly texture and to prevent spreading. Avoid overbaking to keep cookies tender. Adjust buttercream consistency by adding lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed. Use food-grade dried lavender and crush it lightly to avoid a soapy taste. For gluten-free, substitute almond flour but expect a softer texture. Vegan adaptations are possible by substituting butter and using aquafaba or flax egg.

Nutrition
* Serving Size: 1 cookie sandwich
* Calories: 190
* Sugar: 14
* Sodium: 90
* Fat: 12
* Saturated Fat: 7
* Carbohydrates: 22
* Fiber: 0.5
* Protein: 2

03/10/2026

How to Make Homemade Lavender Salve to Soothe Skin & Nerves

By Deanna Talerico updated Aug. 28th, 2023, published Aug. 7th, 2020

EQUIPMENT

* A double-boiler, or make-shift double boiler (such as a glass pyrex bowl or stainless steel bowl perched on top of a saucepan with water below)
* Glass storage jars or salve tins

INGREDIENTS

* 1 cup Lavender-infused oil (OR plain oil such as sweet almond oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, sunflower oil, or other carrier oil of choice)
* 3-4* tbsp Beeswax pastilles, or approximately 1 once if you're using shaved, block, or other forms of beeswax. *If you opt to also add shea butter, use only 3 level tbsp of beeswax pastilles. However if you skip the shea butter, use 4 tbsp beeswax. (vegan option: replace with the same amount of organic soy wax or candelilla wax)
* 2 tbsp Shea butter (optional)
* 20-25 drops lavender essential oil, if using lavender-infused base oil. (Use up to 12 drops essential oil per ounce of base oil, or 96 drops per cup (maximum) if using plain carrier oil. I suggest starting at half that and scaling up based on personal preference/aroma)
* 4-5 drops Other essential oils of choice, such as chamomile, rose, ylang ylang, sweet orange, lemon, rosemary, or others (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

* Have your chosen salve tins or small glass storage jars ready and waiting.�
* Add water to the bottom pan of your double-boiler. Now add 1 cup lavender-infused oil (or plain oil), and 3-4 tbsp of beeswax (see sliding scale notes above).�
* Heat the mixture on the stovetop over medium-love heat – only until the beeswax melts, and stirring frequently. �
* As soon as everything melts and is thoroughly combined, remove from heat. �
* Add essential oils once removed from heat. They're highly volatile and prone to dissipating.�
* While it is still hot, carefully pour the liquid salve into your chosen containers. (If it starts to solidify while you’re still filling containers, simply put it back on medium-low heat until it liquifies again.)�
* Set the full lavender salve containers aside (lids off) and allow them to fully cool. �
* The lavender salve will harden as it cools, and then it is ready to use. Use either clean fingers or a salve spoon to collect a small amount of salve, and apply to your skin as needed. A little goes a long way!�
* Store your salve containers in a cool, dark location. Homemade lavender salve can “stay good” for several years. However, it's medicinal potency may decrease with extended time and age. �
Homesteadandchill.com

03/07/2026

The Calming Effects of Lavender on Laying Hens

Hens exposed to lavender have shown remarkable behavioral changes, exhibiting signs of reduced stress and increased relaxation. Studies have indicated that when lavender is introduced into the environment of laying hens, they display decreased levels of agitation and aggression, leading to a more harmonious flock dynamic.

Additionally, hens have been observed to engage in more preening and dust bathing activities, indicating a higher level of comfort and contentment.

Lavender in Hen Coops: Applications and Methods

All laying hens, especially those in commercial settings, can greatly benefit from the calming properties of lavender in their living environment. Lavender has been known to reduce stress levels in hens, resulting in improved egg production and overall well-being. Additionally, the scent of lavender acts as a natural pest repellent, helping to keep common coop pests such as mites and lice at bay.

Strategies for Incorporating Lavender into Coops
On your lavender journey for happier and healthier hens, consider planting lavender near the coop or placing dried lavender in strategic locations. Hanging dried lavender bundles in the coop or scattering lavender petals in nesting boxes can provide a soothing and aromatic environment for your feathered friends.

Dosage and Frequency Guidelines
For optimal results, it is recommended to use a moderate amount of lavender in the coop to avoid overwhelming the birds with a strong scent. Start with small amounts and gradually increase the dosage based on your hens’ response. As a general guideline, refresh the lavender every 1-2 weeks to maintain its effectiveness.

For laying hens, it is crucial to ensure that the dosage of lavender is moderate and not overpowering. While lavender can have calming effects on hens, excessive exposure may lead to aversion. By following dosage and frequency guidelines, you can create a harmonious and stress-free environment for your flock.

Impact on Egg Production and Quality
Influence of Lavender on Egg-Laying Rates
Rates of egg-laying in hens can be positively impacted by the presence of lavender. The calming and stress-reducing effects of lavender can help hens feel more comfortable and secure in their environment, leading to a potential increase in egg production.

Studies have shown that hens exposed to lavender aromatherapy tend to lay eggs more consistently and at a higher rate compared to those without such exposure.

Effects on Egg Quality Parameters
Quality of eggs can also benefit from the use of lavender in a hen’s environment. Not only does lavender help to repel pests that can affect egg quality, but it can also have a positive influence on the nutritional content of the eggs produced. Research has indicated that eggs from hens exposed to lavender may have higher levels of antioxidants and lower levels of stress-related hormones, resulting in eggs that are not only more nutritious but also tastier.

To ensure the best possible quality of eggs, it is important to consider the overall well-being of the hens producing them. By incorporating lavender into their environment, you can help to reduce stress levels, improve egg-laying rates, and enhance the nutritional profile of the eggs they produce. This natural solution not only benefits the hens themselves but also results in better quality eggs for consumers to enjoy.

Pest Repellent Properties of Lavender
Despite its calming effects on laying hens, lavender also offers natural pest repellent properties that can help keep your coop free from intruders. The strong aroma of lavender is effective in deterring a variety of pests, making it a valuable addition to any pest control strategy.

Types of Pests Deterred by Lavender
* Mosquitoes: Lavender acts as a natural mosquito repellent, keeping these pesky insects at bay.
* Flies: The scent of lavender is known to repel flies, preventing them from bothering your hens.
* Mites: Lavender’s properties can help deter mites, protecting your flock from these harmful pests.
* Ants: Ants are discouraged by the scent of lavender, helping to keep them out of the coop.
* Moths: Lavender can also deter moths, preventing damage to your coop and feed.

Perceiving the benefits of using lavender as a natural pest repellent can protect your hens.
But, it can also create a more pleasant environment for them to thrive in.

https://pin.it/7yMY7tcZu

03/06/2026

🌸 Did You Know? We Grow More Than Lavender! 🌿
If you’ve ever visited Purple Haven, you already know our lavender is the star of the show… but it’s not the only thing blooming here!
This summer, our U Cut gardens will be bursting with zinnias — bright, bold, and full of life. These beauties thrive in the heat, attract beneficial pollinators to our farm, and make some of the longest lasting cut flowers you can take home.
Whether you’re creating a cheerful bouquet, adding colour to your kitchen table, or just wandering the rows with your camera, zinnias are the perfect pick your own flower.
Come explore the garden this summer and see why we love growing these colourful farm favourites! 🌼✨