Lavender Flower, Whole (Lavandula angustifolia) – Dried Herb, Organic

Lavandula angustifolia is the Lavender most people are familiar with. Although not originally from England, most folks know it as English Lavender. English folklore tells that a mixture of Lavender, Mugwort, Chamomile, and Rose Petals will attract spirits, fairies, brownies and elves.

Originally from the Mediteranean, the genus lavandula is in the mint family. An aromatic perennial evergreen shrub with sweet floral flowers. The scent is very relaxing and has been cultivated around the world with a long history of use in traditional western herbalism.

The flowers blossom from late spring to early autumn. The use of this beautiful shrub goes back thousands of years, the first recorded uses by the Egyptians during the mummification process. Both the Romans and the Greeks used it for bathing, cooking and perfume. The Romans gave the herb its name from the latin name lavare, to wash.

French cuisine often uses Lavender in its spice blends. Not only is it used for desserts, it can be used to bring a floral twist to savory dishes. Some people may find the flavour soapy, so I would start using it sparingly to find the right balance. 

Because of its relaxing scent, Lavender has been used for many years as a sleep aid. Helping the mind and body find peace, in a warm and comforting way. It’s also been used as an aphrodisiac, likely because of the same sense of relaxation and warmth.

Properties:

Having an affinity for the nerves, Lavender is often used for sleep and calming the nervous system, along with relieving tension. It’s also been used as an aperitif to calm the stomach after a meal.

Lavender has been used for centuries in the cosmetic industry. Likely for its scent and helping quel inflammation, calming the surrounding tissue.

For a digestive tea combine Lavender with Catnip, Fennel seed or Ginger root. For a calming tea combine Lavender with Skullcap, California poppy, Wild lettuce or Lemon balm.

How to use:

1 teaspoon of Lavender Flowers to one cup of boiling water. Steep for 15 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day.

Soothing Bath: Add 100g infused and strained, to a tepid bath.

Culinary Suggestions: Infuse agave or maple syrup with a sprinkling of Lavender Flowers and use to sweeten iced tea, lemonade or even to flavour meringue. Grind some Lavender into a natural sugar and use it in simple butter cookies or infuse cream for Lavender-scented whipped or ice cream. Make your own dry blend of herbs and flowers (e.g. Lavender with Mint and rRosemary) and rub on lamb chops or chicken wings before grilling. You can even candy the blossoms and use those to garnish any Lavender infused dishes.

Cautions & contraindications:

Avoid excessive use during early pregnancy.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.