Fresh lavender leaves can be used for a variety of different purposes! You can use them for herbal teas, giving your cup of tea a pleasant, calming flavor. When used to make herbal tea, the leaves are steeped in hot water for a few minutes and then the lavender tea is drunk.
They can also be tossed into salads for a pleasant flavoring. Or, you can make lavender syrup by simmering lavender leaves in a pot with water, lemon, and honey.
Dried lavender leaves can also be used for crafting, such as wreaths or decorative displays. Dried lavender leaves are also often used in potpourri and aromatherapy, adding colorful, fragrant texture to both.
Additionally, lavender oil, which is obtained through distillation of the leaves, is used in many soaps, shampoos, and creams, and even has some medical benefits.
Is there a use for lavender leaves?
Yes, lavender leaves can be used in a variety of ways. They can be steeped in hot water to make a nourishing herbal tea, used as a garnish for salads and soups, or even eaten raw. The leaves can also be added to potpourris or sachets to infuse any space with the calming scent of lavender.
Dried, the leaves can also be sprinkled on pillows for a restorative sleep. The essential oil of lavender leaves has long been thought to have therapeutic properties, which is why it’s also become a popular aromatherapy treatment.
On top of this, lavender leaves have some interesting culinary uses: they can be used to make a fragrant jelly or even to infuse flavour into white chocolate truffles.
How do you dry fresh lavender leaves?
When drying fresh lavender leaves, there are a few simple steps you can take. First, select only fresh, high-quality leaves and cut off the stems. Rinse the leaves in clean water and gently dry them by blotting them with a paper towel.
Next, arrange the leaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in a warm, dry area in your home, such as near a window on a sunny day. If needed, use a fan to improve air circulation.
Let them sit for several days until the leaves are completely dry. When ready, store the dried lavender leaves in a glass or plastic container, making sure they are sealed tightly.
Do you use lavender leaves or flowers?
It depends on the type of recipe I am making. Generally, if I am making a bouquet garni or an herb sachet, I will use the leaves and stems of the lavender plant. This is because they are more flavorful than the flowers and release their flavor slowly, making them ideal for infusing flavor into soup and stews.
On the other hand, I will use the flowers if I am making jellies, jams, sweet desserts, or a tea blend. The lavender flowers are known for their sweet, fragrant aroma, making them perfect for adding a light floral flavor to these types of dishes.
Should I put my fresh cut lavender in water?
Yes, you should put your freshly cut lavender in water. This is the best way to keep the flowers alive and minimize their wilting. To do this, start by cutting the flower stem at a 45-degree angle, then strip off any leaves that are below the water line.
Place the lavender into a larger container filled with lukewarm water and keep it away from direct sunlight. Make sure to replace the water every other day, as keeping the lavender in lukewarm water will help to keep the flowers looking fresh.
Change the water every other day to prevent the growth of bacteria so the lavender stays alive and vibrant.
Can you boil lavender to make your house smell good?
Yes, boiling lavender to make your house smell good is an easy way to add a fresh and calming scent to your home. To do this, fill a large pot with water, then add in fresh lavender flowers or dried lavender.
Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and allow the lavender to simmer for around 30 minutes, then turn off the heat. Make sure to open windows to allow the steam from the pot to escape and to allow the scent to fill your home.
You can also use your stovetop to create a lavender oil. Place about a cup of water in a pot and bring it to a boil. Add around two tablespoons of dried lavender to the boiling water and reduce the heat to low.
Allow the mixture to simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. When finished, strain the lavender from the liquid and pour into a spray bottle or air freshener. The oil can be used to freshen pillows, closets, or anywhere else in your home that could use a calming scent.
What part of lavender is used for medicine?
The flowers and leaves of lavender are commonly used for medicinal purposes. The essential oil is usually extracted from the flowers and is commonly used to treat insomnia, anxiety, depression, and restlessness.
Some studies have shown that the essential oil, when used in aromatherapy, can lower blood pressure and also help reduce headaches. Additionally, lavender oil is linked to improving skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
The leaves and flowers of lavender can also be used in teas and tinctures to treat digestion problems and stress. Additionally, lavender essential oil is commonly used to help heal burns, bruises, and insect bites, as well as help heal cuts.
Lavender oil is also used as an antiseptic and is often added to products such as soaps and lotions. There is also evidence that lavender oil can help reduce symptoms of menopause.
Are lavender leaves safe to eat?
Yes, lavender leaves are safe to eat. The leaves of the lavender plant have been used in cooking, teas, and other recipes for centuries. In fact, lavender is often grown in gardens for its fragrant leaves.
Lavender leaves can be used to flavor savory dishes such as roasts, salads and vegetable dishes. They can also be made into a tea or added to desserts for a lovely floral flavor. However, it is important to note that the leaves of the lavender plant are not particularly flavorful on their own and should be used in moderation to add an extra layer of flavor to a dish.
Additionally, the leaves should not be consumed in large amounts as they may have a diuretic effect or cause stomach upset.
Where do you cut lavender when harvesting?
When harvesting lavender, it is best to cut the stems off at the base, below the flower heads. Make sure to use a sharp pair of scissors or garden snips to ensure a clean cut. Additionally, cut stems early in the morning when the essential oils are most concentrated for best scent and flavor.
If cutting for dried lavender, wait until the flower bud starts to turn brown. When harvesting, take care to take only a third of the plant in any one season, leaving plenty of stem to re-flower and regrow for future seasons.
Is any lavender poisonous?
No, lavender is not poisonous. Lavender is a popular herb that has been used since ancient times for its calming scent and medicinal properties. It is generally known to be safe for human consumption.
However, lavender is toxic to cats and some animals, so if you have cats or other pets, take care to keep your lavender plants out of their reach. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is wise to speak to your doctor before ingesting lavender, as it could interact with certain medications.
Despite the potential risks, lavender has demonstrated many health benefits, such as promoting relaxation, reducing stress, improving sleep, and relieving muscle pain. Additionally, lavender is also used in some therapeutic oils, as well as other products such as creams and soaps.