The Love of Lavender…

By Scarlett Lovitt

One of the most beautiful fragrances out there has to be lavender, which is also reflected by its gorgeous mauve coloring. Many people absolutely love lavender, both in terms of its look and its distinctive, refreshing scent. In fact, if you are a lover of lavender, how about decorating your bathroom and even creating your own lavender accessories?

The first thing that you would do is paint the walls of your bathroom with mauve waterproof paint. Match this with purple or mauve tiles. If you can't retile and you have plain white tiles, you can add mauve adhesive waterproof stickers that would match the color of the walls.

Put down a small oval rug — in mauve or purple of course — or any other kind of rug, preferably of synthetic material that would not get damaged by the usual bathroom activities. There should also be a matching shower curtain and bath towels, perfectly color coordinated.

But, as we have already stated, the lavender look is not enough. What about the beautiful lavender scent? Here are some great recipes for lavender bathroom and skin care accessories. (Only try these if you are sure that you are not allergic to real lavender in any way.)

Try the lavender facial spritz — one of the most delightful and refreshing lavender accessories you can make:

• Take two cups (500 ml) of mineral water and add 10 drops of lavender essential oil (which you can buy at any health store) to it. Shake well — and spray on your face for a refreshing lift to your skin.

Have you ever tried a lavender bath? If not, there's no need to go to the pharmacy for an expensive bottle of bath oil.

• Take some dried lavender sprigs and put them into 2 cups of boiling water. Strain off when cooled and add it to your bathwater. Bath time will never be the same again!

Then of course there is the traditional lavender potpourri that you can keep in your bathroom for its beautiful fragrance.

And don't forget a bottle of lavender cologne, which you can apply after a bath. It will make you feel unbelievably sensual and clean. Here's how to make it yourself:

• Combine 10 drops of lavender essential oil with an ounce of vodka, before adding a cup of distilled water. Leave this mixture in the fridge, well sealed. This will keep for up to three months. This is so easy, and you can make sure that you have an ongoing supply.

Last but not least, don't forget to make your own lavender tea water, which can make a great facial compress:

• Put 2 teaspoons of lavender buds in a cup of boiling water and leave it to mature for 5 minutes. Once it has cooled, strain it and add 20 drops of essential lavender oil. This makes a perfect facial wash, refreshing the skin and making it feel clean and fragrant.

Indulging your love of lavender does not have to be difficult or expensive. A little time and creativity will help you create your own lavender accessories that will add a lot to your bathroom and can also be used as great gifts for your friends. •

© 2010 Scarlett Lovitt. All rights reserved.

10/4/10