Lavender is a very cleansing, protective and purifying herb. It is a masculine herb with the planet of Mercury and the element air. Lavender has been used in love sachets/incense and purification sachets/incense for thousands of years. Witches would also throw lavender into the Midsummer fires as a sacrifice to the gods. Lavender was also added into many healing ritual incense and frequently into bath mixtures. It is said that the odor of lavender is conducive to long life and should be smelled as often as possible. Legend also has it that if one carries lavender they will possess the ability to see ghosts and that if one is depressed and one gazes at a plant of lavender that all sorrow will depart and a joyous feeling will settle upon them.
Sources
"Magical Herbalism" by Scott Cunningham
"Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs" By Scott Cunningham
Medicinal
Lavender can be used for many medical reasons such as for digestion, antidepressant, antioxidant, stimulant, antiseptic and many others.
Lavender contains Volatile oils which are active against bacteria and fungi. Therefore it is used for infections causing vomiting and diarrhea.
Lavender is excellent for anxiety and stress-related symptoms such as headaches, migraines, neuralgia, palpitation, and insomnia. It also helps to lift the spirit.
Lavender can also be used as an antimicrobial, (substance that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi), which increases the resistance to colds, coughs, chest infections, flu ect. Lavender is also very good for people how may have asthma.
Lavender as a hot tea can reduce fever and increases the elimination of toxins via the skin and urine.
Lavender can also be used for skin problems like eczema, acne, varicose ulcers and nappy rash. It also stimulates tissue repair, minimizes scar formation when oil is applied neat to burns, cuts and wounds, sores and ulcers. Lavender oil repels insects and relieves bites and stings, pain of bruises, sprains, gout, arthritis and muscle tensions.
Sources
"The Complete Herbal Tutor" by Anne McIntyre
My Local Herbalist
These are only remedies and one should seek medical attention if needed.