When I hear of lavender blooming, sparkling sunshine, delicate scents, and buzzing bees collecting nectar in endless purple French lavender fields come to mind. I have always wanted to visit Provence during the June blooming season. I haven't been able to check it off my bucket list yet, but what is delayed is not lost.
In recent years at home, however, several wonderful lavender plantationsI also had the opportunity to visit, where I could experience the magic of the plant up close.
Lavender is dear to many, not only for its scent, but also because its flowers and the essential oil extracted from it can be used in countless ways—a real jack-of-all-trades.
Lavender in the past
Its name originates from the Latin word lavare, which means to wash. The ancient Romans and Greeks added it to their bathwater and scented the water in which they washed their clothes with it. The Egyptians were also fond of using it, preparing ointments with it and utilizing it for embalming. During plague epidemics and in World War II, its antiseptic properties were put to use.
Traditionally, the flowers are gathered in linen bags and used to scent wardrobes, keep them fresh, and ward off insects. In the kitchen, its flowers can be used to make delicious desserts, ice cream, or refreshing lemonade, while in medicine it is popular for its calming, diuretic, and digestion-improving effects.
Lavender today
It is also widely used in aromatherapy and cosmetics because it has a soothing effect on irritated skin, promotes wound healing, has antibacterial and antiviral properties, regenerates skin, reduces inflammation, and relieves itching.
In addition, it is among the safest oils, can be diffused even around babies and children, and is one of the most versatile essential oils.
Shedo Organic Cosmetics
I also gladly use it in baby cosmetics for its skin-soothing, regenerating properties and because it imparts a pleasant floral, spicy scent to the formulation, blending easily and harmonizing well with other scents, such as citrus.
Lavender cosmetics are also wonderful for relaxing and unwinding, as they have a calming effect not only on the skin, but on the spirit as well.
Parents may massage their children more often during infancy, and they do very well to do so, because babies usually enjoy it immensely, and massage has a proven positive effect on a baby's mood, nervous system, and motor development, making it regular, quality time spent together with the parent. Touch, warmth, skin-to-skin contact, and gentle stroking movements provide security for the baby, strengthening the bond between parent and child. For massage, we can choose a plant oil blend that contains relaxing essential oils, such as lavender.
Older children might not allow a classic baby massage, but we can still try using a lavender shower gel and body lotion with them, so not only will their skin be well hydrated, but cosmetics with essential oils can also help them settle down in the evening.
This has worked wonders for us. My little boy is already 6 years old, but to this day, the SHEDO Lavender-Orange Wash and Lavender-Orange Body Lotion are part of our evening routine. The essential oils in them help him tune in for sleep, while my touch and closeness give him a sense of security.
Dr. Dóra Halász – The Author
I am Dr. Dóra Halász, a specialist pharmacist, wife, and mother to a beautiful boy. During my university studies in pharmacy, I had the opportunity to learn about the chemistry, properties, and effects of numerous natural and synthetic compounds. My attention soon turned toward natural substances. I was captivated by herbs, plant oils, and essential oils. During my studies in aromatherapy, I was able to immerse myself deeply in my favorite oils. Equipped with this knowledge, creating my own natural cosmetics became achievable, fulfilling a long-held dream. As a mother, godmother, and friend, I also gained experience in everyday baby care. That is how the SHEDO Manó baby care product line was born.
I consider the quality of the ingredients used to be of paramount importance, which is why I use premium quality, certified organic plant extracts and plant oils to formulate the products. The advantage of ingredients from certified organic farming compared to conventional cultivation is that they contain no chemical residues that could place a burden on our skin and body. This is of paramount importance in baby care. It is essential that thin, sensitive, delicate baby skin comes into contact only with clean substances from reliable sources.
I use premium quality, 100% pure, certified organic and Demeter essential oils. With the exception of the Calendula Balm—which contains organic beeswax—all products are vegan. The products are made fresh by hand under laboratory conditions.
For packaging, I chose modern bottles featuring airless technology for most products, as cosmetics can be safely stored this way. The cap is fitted with an airtight valve, so it does not come into contact with air or contaminants, thereby preserving its freshness. Environmental protection is important to me, which is why I use eco-friendly glass and metal packaging for products where the formulation allows, and I recycle waste generated during production.
I do not use artificial colorants or fragrances, artificial preservatives, parabens, SLS, or petroleum derivatives.
My goal is to raise awareness among as many people as possible about the importance of skincare using natural cosmetics.
Together with my husband, Zoltán Deák, we co-founded the SHEDO brand and work together toward the success of the business.
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