Page 19 2023 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April/May 2023 rose and lavender scents on nurses’ job stress: a randomized controlled trial.” The scientists found that over the course of four weeks there were “statistically significant differences” in a group of nurses exposed to the scent of roses or lavender versus a group that had been exposed to a placebo. The report concluded that exposure to the scent of roses and lavender was safe and “can reduce nurses’ over reliance on medications for relieving the symptoms of job stress.” First things first, get that nurse friend some roses! Second, if roses work for nurses why wouldn’t they work for you? Adding these to your garden could be the first step in finding that safe harbor from your daily worries. Roses are typically planted in the spring. They need lots of sun and good soil to grow successfully. Rose specific fertilizers are available. Lavender In the study referenced above you’ll notice there were two plants used. Lavender is somewhat of a superstar when it comes to aromatherapy. The scent or oil is believed to lower stress, help with sleeplessness, soothe wounds and more. The science on lavender as an essential oil is split, however. In a National Center for Biotechnology Information published study it was concluded that “lavender EO (essential oil) inhalation was shown to produce a decrease of arousal level and an improvement of sustained component of attention.” The University of Illinois Extension suggests that lavender be exposed to sunlight at least eight hours a day and grows best in welldrained soil. It can be grown in pots or raised beds with potting soil. Continued --
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