Lavender Lady

12/08/2025

Don’t Test My Jolly — Day 1

Today kicks off my brand-new Don’t Test My Jolly series —
because let’s be real… December attitudes are real. 😅

We’re getting those holiday moods in check with a lineup of rollers designed for the actual holiday experience:

✔ big crowds
✔ noisy gatherings
✔ “are you done shopping yet?”
✔ too many to-dos
✔ and a touch of seasonal sass

Meet Little Miss Attitude 🍪✨
For the days when you wake up and think:

“Holiday spirit? …Not yet.” 😂

Diffuser Sister Blend
Add to your diffuser:

• 3 Bergamot
• 2 Lavender
• 1 Cedarwood
• 1 Frankincense

Calm energy + a little patience boost 😌✨

If this blend speaks to your soul today 👇
comment ATTITUDE and I’ll send the roller recipe card to you!

And keep watching —
this week’s lineup is hilarious and so relatable:

Why Did I Eat That?
Holiday Rush Hour
Take a Breath
Sleigh the Day
Bah Humbug
Jingle Joints
Do Not Disturb

🎉 Let’s support the real side of the holidays together.
Sass included. 😌✨

12/07/2025

Here’s another view on lavender for dogs. While for the most part, lavender can be safe and beneficial to dogs when used responsibly, everything I’ve read advises not to use internally. So no dog biscuit recipes-sorry. Always check with your vet before using any oils on your pet. Aromatherapy seems fairly safe for dogs where lavender is concerned but articles from the experts are hard to find. Most are written by those that are selling the products. We need more studies from reliable sources. For this reason I am not currently offering any lavender recipes for our canine friends. That said, I can’t deny its benefits.-LL

BENEFITS OF LAVENDER FOR DOGS
Posted on 11th May 2020

Guest Blog by: Michelle Schenker of CanineJournal.com

The safest essential oil for dogs is lavender, and it has many benefits to share with your canine friend. Lavender is very stable and gentle for use on dogs when diffused in the air, sprayed on bedding or diluted for fur application (mix oil with a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil).

Be Cautious

Remember, it is always best to consult your vet before starting any new treatment, even a natural one. It’s not recommended to use essential oils on puppies or toy breeds. Be sure to avoid putting it anywhere near your dog's eyes, nose, mouth or private areas. Cats are not as tolerant of lavender, so do not use it around your feline friends.

Dilute Your Oil

Before we jump into the benefits of lavender for dogs, we want to discuss the most crucial step you must take and understand if you choose to apply lavender essential oil to your dog. You must dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil. If you plan to use lavender oil regularly for your dog, we recommend keeping a bottle or jar of prediluted oil on hand in your cabinet.

A general guideline suggests that the appropriate ratio for large to medium dogs is 1 drop essential oil to 10 drops carrier oil. For small canines, it’s one drop essential oil to 25 drops base oil. Diluting the essential oil is important because its strength is based on the human body, enough for a 100-pound dog.

Non-Oil Options

In addition to lavender oil, Red Rock Ranch and Farm also offers a lovely Lavender Spray Mist that can be sprayed onto your dog’s bed or favorite blanket without dilution, providing a safe and more convenient option than oil.

Calms Anxiety

Okay, now let's talk about the many ways your dog can benefit from lavender. If you have a dog who scares in a thunderstorm, fireworks or when people come over to visit, you will want to keep a high-quality lavender on hand to calm their anxiety.

During stressful times, you can spray mist or diffuse lavender in the air or on bedding to calm both you and your dog during troubling times.

Quiet and soothe your dog by gently rubbing diluted lavender oil into their fur while giving them a gentle massage. We have found success rubbing a drop of diluted oil on our dog's ears to calm it down.

Soothes Wounds & Other Skin Issues

Lavender is soothing and calming. It also has antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiseptic properties. These qualities make it an excellent choice for itchy, irritated skin since it may reduce irritation from frequent scratching.

Ward Off Insects

Additionally, lavender can help ward off mosquitoes, fleas and ticks naturally. So it’s a safe option to add a drop to your dog's bath, their collar or even use the Lavender Spray Mist on their bedding.

With so many benefits, lavender is sure to become a staple for you and your dog. We recommend using only the highest quality products on your canine pals, such as Red Rock Ranch and Farm’s Essential Oil or Spray Mist.

Michelle Schenker is an animal enthusiast who shares her love of dogs with the world by helping pet owners gain a better understanding of their beloved pup’s needs on her website www.CanineJournal.com. Since the day she was born, she has lived in a home full of dogs. Her adult home is no exception where she and her husband live with Lily and Barley, their two adorable rescue pups. She’s also an essential oil enthusiast, a yogi and a home kitchen chef.

12/07/2025

Is lavender safe for dogs? After reading this blog article, I will no longer offer any recipes for our canine family. Not that it cannot be used, but it’s a tricky path to tread. Some excerpts:

Link to this article will be posted in the comments.-LL

Is Lavender Safe For Dogs? A Comprehensive Guide
Balancing potential hazards with therapeutic properties guides safer use around pets.
By Medha Deb

The safety of lavender for dogs depends on how it’s used and what form your pet is exposed to. While fresh lavender plants in gardens are generally less risky, concentrated forms, particularly essential oils, can pose serious health hazards if misused.

Key Compounds: Why Lavender Can Be Toxic to Dogs

Lavender contains two natural chemicals — linalool and linalyl acetate— responsible for its fragrance and many calming effects. These compounds, however, are mildly toxic to dogs when ingested in significant amounts.

* Linalool: Can cause gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, and more.

* Linalyl acetate: Less studied, but similarly concerning in high concentrations.

Lavender: Potential Benefits for Dogs

Despite its risks, lavender can offer certain health benefits to dogs when used responsibly:

* Anxiety relief: Lavender aroma is shown to help calm dogs, particularly in stressful situations like car rides, thunderstorms, or separation.
* Mild sleep support: Some studies suggest lavender can gently support relaxation and better sleep when used in low concentrations.
* Topical soothing: Diluted lavender oil may help support skin health, although it should only be used with veterinary guidance.

Symptoms of Lavender Toxicity in Dogs
If your dog has ingested lavender or has been exposed to concentrated forms, look for these symptoms of mild toxicity:
* Nausea and vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Lethargy or drowsiness
* Loss of appetite
* Skin irritation (if topical exposure)
In rare cases, particularly with large ingestions of essential oil, signs can include:
* CNS (central nervous system) depression
* Tremors or ataxia
* Difficulty breathing
If you notice any of these symptoms — especially vomiting, loss of coordination, or severe lethargy — contact your veterinarian immediately.

Concerns: Homes with Cats
Lavender essential oil can be toxic to cats. If you share your home with both dogs and cats, avoid using lavender essential oil products unless approved by a veterinarian. Cats are uniquely sensitive to many essential oils and can develop serious respiratory or metabolic issues even with low exposure.

From Lavender Lady: while exposure to the plant itself (dried or fresh) is low risk for dogs, cats are much more at risk. As far as I am concerned, essential oils are out of the question for both, although diluted oils can be used in moderation on dogs and lavender aromatherapy has been proven to be beneficial to dogs. Always consult your veterinarian before use.

That said, I own cats-I obviously have lavender-to my knowledge none of my feline companions have ever had an issue with living with lavender in its natural state. Article tomorrow on cats and lavender.

12/06/2025

12/05/2025

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12/05/2025

12/04/2025

Here’s a throwback from a few years back. Just for the littles! While lavender oil is considered safe for children in this dilution, I would not recommend it for children under two. As always, should a rash occur or any breathing difficulties, discontinue use.

Lavender Sleep Balm for Kids

Sometimes we can all use some help winding down from the day, little ones included. This DIY lavender sleep balm is a wonderful addition to your bedtime routine. It relieves stress and encourages a good night’s sleep. Plus it’s all natural, easy to make, and safe for kids!
ACTIVE TIME
10 minutes
ADDITIONAL TIME
1 hour
TOTAL TIME
1 hour 10 minutes
DIFFICULTY
easy
Materials
* 14g (about 1 T) olive oil
* 11 g (about 1 T) jojoba oil or other carrier oil of your choice
* 4 g (about 1 tsp) beeswax pellets
* 4 -7 drops lavender essential oil (for a .5 - 1% dilution)
* a few drops vitamin E oil (optional but recommended)
Tools
* a saucepan and a small heat proof bowl OR a double boiler
* spatula
* a small container for the balm (I used a mint tin)
* a kitchen scale (optional, but useful)
Instructions
1. Combine olive oil, jojoba oil, and beeswax in a small heatproof bowl and place on top of a saucepan with an inch or two of water. Heat on the stove at medium-low.
2. Stir until oils and wax are completely melted and combined.
3. Remove from heat and add essential oil and vitamin E oil, stirring together.
4. Working quickly, pour mixture into clean container and allow to cool completely. For a faster set, set uncovered container in the refrigerator.
�To Use: Rub a small amount on the soles of feet, chest, back, or temples. Breathe deeply. Sleep well.
Notes

To dilute essential oils to .5% - 1% for small children.

© The Crunchy Ginger
PROJECT TYPE: personal care / CATEGORY: frugal family

This DIY lavender sleep balm relieves stress and encourages a good night’s sleep. Plus it’s all natural, easy to make, and safe for kids!

12/03/2025

Mini Lemon Cakes With Lavender Glaze

These elegant Mini Lemon Cakes are incredibly moist and tender, bursting with bright lemon flavor. They’re topped with a simple but sophisticated glaze infused with the beautiful floral fragrance of lavender. The perfect impressive dessert for any brunch or tea party.

Ingredients

For the Cakes

* 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
* 1/8 tsp. baking soda
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
* 2/3 cup granulated sugar
* 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 Tbsp. grated lemon zest from 2 lemons
* 2 large eggs, at room temperature
* 1/4 cup sour cream, at room temperature
* 1/4 cup whole milk, at room temperature
* 1 tsp. vanilla extract

For the Lavender Glaze

* 1/4 cup whole milk
* 1/2 tsp. culinary lavender
* 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
* 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
* 1/8 tsp. vanilla extract
* as needed Edible flowers and lemon zest for garnish

Equipment

* 2 (6-cup) mini cake trays (e.g., mini bundt pan)
* Stand Mixer with Paddle Attachment
* Medium bowl
* Small Bowl
* Fine-Mesh Strainer

Method

Part 1: Make the Lemon Cakes

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Thoroughly coat 2 (6-cup) mini cake trays with baking spray. Whisk together flour, salt, and baking soda.�
2. In a stand mixer, beat butter, sugars, and lemon zest on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each.�
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, milk, and vanilla. With the mixer on low, gradually add the flour mixture and sour cream mixture in alternating batches, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined.�
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared trays. Tap trays on the counter to release air bubbles. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until a wooden pick comes out clean.�
5. Let cool in trays for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely, about 1 hour.�
Part 2: Make the Glaze and Serve

1. When cakes are cool, microwave 1/4 cup milk for 30 seconds until hot. Add lavender and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain the milk through a fine mesh strainer, discarding the lavender.�
2. In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla. Gradually stir in the steeped milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you have a smooth, pourable glaze.�
3. Drizzle the cooled cakes with the lavender glaze. Garnish with additional lemon zest and edible flowers, if desired.�
Notes

Room Temperature is Key: For the most tender and evenly textured cake, ensure your butter, eggs, sour cream, and milk are all at room temperature before you begin.

Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix only until just combined. Overmixing will result in a tough cake.

Steep for Flavor: Letting the lavender steep in the hot milk for the full 10 minutes is essential for infusing the glaze with its beautiful floral aroma.

Wiserecipes.com

12/02/2025

Homemade Drawing Salve (Bites, Stings & Slivers)
By Katie Krejci, MS, RD, IFNCP / July 21, 2023

What is a Drawing Salve?
A drawing salve does exactly just what it sounds like! It contains active ingredients that will help draw out any toxins or foreign substances from underneath the skin.

Homemade Drawing Salve Recipe

Now that we have a good understanding of what a drawing salve is and how the ingredients play a role, let’s get to making it!
Step 1: Gather your supplies

Ingredients
* Extra virgin olive oil – enough to cover the herbs
* Plantain leaves – fresh or dried
* Mullein leaves – fresh or dried
* Calendula flowers – fresh or dried
* Comfrey leaves – fresh or dried
* Beeswax pellets – 2 Tbsp per ½ cup of infused EVOO
* Activated charcoal powder – 3 Tbsp per ½ cup of infused EVOO
* Bentonite clay – 3 Tbsp per ½ cup of infused EVOO
* Lavender essential oil – optional, but provides additional healing benefits

*Foraging for fresh ingredients is my favorite, but if you’re short on time or don’t have the plants available, I have some great dried options linked above! I was unable to find fresh comfry on our property, so I used substituted dried and it was still great!

*WARNING: Do NOT use zinc chloride in your homemade drawing salve recipe. You may see recipes call for this, but it has corrosive actionthat can cause dermatitis, ulceration and burns.

Tools
* Knife
* Cutting board
* Double boiler
* Pot
* Fine mesh strainer
* Glass measuring cup
* Salve tins (2 oz)

Step 2: Make an oil infusion
Heat a pot of water with a double boiler insertto gently heat the oil to extract the full medicinal properties of the herbs, without scorching them.

Chop up the herbs, if using fresh. Divide out equal parts herbs (1/4 plantain, 1/4 mullein, 1/4 comfry and 1/4 calendula) and then combine into one big pile.

Add some extra virgin olive oil to the double boiler, then top with the chopped herbs. Give it a stir. Continue to drizzle in olive oil until the herbs are covered by 1-2”.

Heat gently for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally. You know that it’s done when the olive oil is a deep color and has a nice herby (not burnt!) smell to it.

Strain out the herbs using a fine mesh straineron top of a glass measuring cup. If your strainer has large holes, line it with cheesecloth. Discard the herbs and make note of how much oil you have left. Wipe out your double boiler.

Step 3: Create the homemade drawing salve
Return your infused oil to the double boiler and add the appropriate amount of beeswax to your batch (2 Tbsp per ½ cup of infused oil). Heat gently until the beeswax is fully melted.

Remove from the heat and add 10 drops of lavender essential oil per ½ cup of infused oil, if desired. Then, stir in the activated charcoal powder and bentonite clay at a ratio of 3 Tbsp of each powder per ½ cup of infused oil. The mixture will look like black tar at this point!

Stir, then quickly transfer to salve tins. If the salve has cooled too much, it will begin to harden. Pro tip: Wipe out your double boiler right away. Once the beeswax cools and hardens, it can be tough to clean up.
Let your salve tins cool completely before securing with a lid. This allows any leftover moisture to escape, reducing the risk of mold.

How to Store
Store your drawing salve containers in a cool, dark location (not your hot car!). I have a dedicated shelf in a closet to keep all of my dried herbs, salves, tinctures, essential oils, etc. Having your own little apothecary is a joy to look at and such a great way to become more self-sufficient!

If prepared and stored properly, a salve should last up to 1 year. I’ve used old chickweed salves that are 2-3 years old and still notice their healing benefits. It may not be quite as potent as it once was, but as long as it hasn’t gone moldy or rancid, it can still serve a purpose.

How to Use
Anytime you have a bite, sting, or sliver, start by cleaning the area with warm soap and water. Then, apply your homemade drawing salve liberally to the affected area and cover with a bandaid. Add a new application and bandage every 12 hours until healed.

*Do not use this salve internally!

*If you are experiencing significant symptoms as a result of a bite or sting (shortness of breath, rash/streaking, rapid heart rate, etc.), please seek professional help.

thehomesteadingrd.com

For more information on this recipe, its ingredients, properties and uses, click on the link in the comments. -LL

12/02/2025

Lavender-Infused Oil

The base of our Stress-Be-Gone Balm is lavender-infused oil. This oil gives the balm a light, relaxing scent and provides easy access to the peaceful properties of lavender (Lavandula spp.). Lavender-infused oil is extremely easy to prepare and has a myriad of uses. Besides providing the base for many types of balms and salves, the infused oil can be used alone on minor skin irritations and bug bites, as a massage oil, and included in homemade body scrubs.
This delightful herb has long been a helpful ally for emotional support. Lavender brings a sense of calm and is thought to support the central nervous system (Keville & Green, 1995).

Keep this Stress-Be-Gone Balm in your purse, by your nightstand, or in your pocket for easy access when feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or frustrated—however stress manifests for you. Apply it to pulse points, your temples, or just below the nostrils as needed.

Stress-Be-Gone Balm Recipe

Ingredients
45 mL (1.5 fl oz) lavender-infused olive oil�3.5-4.5 g (0.12 -0.16 oz) beeswax�14 drops total of calming essential oil(s) of choice: lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), neroli (Citrus x aurantium), sweet orange (Citrus x sinensis), vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides), sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum), lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora), German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), rose geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), and/or rose otto (Rosa damascena).�3 0.5 oz metal salve tins

Directions
* Over low heat, warm olive oil in a double-boiler reserved specifically for cosmetic projects. Add the beeswax, warming until just melted.
* Remove double-boiler from heat.
* Add essential oils, stir, and then swiftly pour into tins before the mixture hardens. (This recipe should fill approximately 3 0.5 oz metal salve tins, or you can use lip-balm tubes if you already have some on hand).
* Label accordingly, and apply to temples as needed. Take a deep breath, and feel the relaxing effects of this soothing balm wash over you.

theherbalaccademy.com

11/28/2025

A bit of an update-I learn so much from my followers-thank you! While the author of this recipe did not add an emulsifier, the very fact that you are using an oil and water mixture makes an emulsifier necessary in order to prevent separation. This is especially true if you plan to sell your product. A good choice is Olivem 1000 although there are several other options.

Be sure to read my notes at the end of this recipe as it is an ongoing process. Thank you to all of my followers who help me to give you the best possible information. Your input is invaluable to us all.-LL

This DIY Magnesium Body Butter Recipe is the perfect soothing bedtime body butter for stiff muscles.

PREP TIME
10 minutes
ACTIVE TIME
20 minutes

Materials
* 1/2 cup coconut oil
* 1/2 cup cocoa butter
* 1/4 cup magnesium oil (1/8 cup magnesium flakes plus 1/8 cup water)
* 20-30 drops lavender essential oil

Tools
* Double Boiler
* Glass Bowls
* Hand Mixer
* Sealed Glass Container with Lid

Instructions
1. Add 1/8 cup magnesium flakes and 1/8 cup water. Stir until dissolved. Set aside
2. Melt the coconut oil and the cocoa butter in the top of a double boiler until melted.
3. Pour into a medium-sized glass bowl
4. Place in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to chill
5. Place the bowl over a second bowl of ice (so that you are chilling the mixture without actually adding anything to the oil/butter mixture)
6. Beat with a hand mixer until the mixture starts turning opaque
7. Slowly add in the magnesium oil as you continue beating the mixture.
8. Add the essential oils while continuing to beat
9. You will continue to beat until the mixture turns white and thick (5 to 10 minutes?)
10. Scoop out of the bowl and put it into a sealed glass container.
11. Apply at bedtime as needed.

Note from Lavender Lady: be sure to add a preservative to this as water added in the magnesium brine/oil can and will allow for the growth of bacteria and mold.

In addition, I have been notified that, as overuse of coconut oil can cause dry skin, you may want to replace the coconut oil or a portion of it with another oil. Some possibilities are almond oil and jojoba oil.

© Diane Hoffmaster