Lavender
Lavandula officinalis
01.
Overview
common names
Common Lavender, English Lavender
usable plant parts
flowers, leaf, whole plant (hedging)
flavor notes
a penetrating aroma that is sweetly floral, some citrus and minty undertones; potent flavor is slightly camphor to taste, with bitter aftertaste.
lavender varieties available @
monterey bay spice company
please note: clicking links above
will bring you to the individual product pages
choosing your lavender
When choosing which variety to purchase please consider: all are edible; all have the same aromatic value.
Ultra (743) has the most vibrant color and is good for visual purposes (cooking, potpourri, etc). Extra has a light blue/grey color and is less expensive, this makes it best for projects where color is not important as flowers will be hidden (making sachets, pillows etc.) Organic is, well just that, organic....
culinary uses
It is important to use lavender sparingly in recipes. Great in both sweet and savory dishes, and visually resplendent as a culinary decorative device.
02.
Traditional Plant Usage
for your whole household
Of all the simples in the botanical kingdom, few hold such a place of reverence in the gardens and hearts of herbal enthusiasts as lavender. Its graceful beauty, peppery fragrance, and potent therapeutic properties have made this herb a staple in the kitchen and bath.
03.
Habitat / Range
farming and processing
Lavender is in the family Lamiaceae which is native to the western Mediterranean. It thrives with relatively little amount of water in sunny open areas. Lavender is grown in commercially on a large scale, mostly for its aromatic uses.
Lavender stems can be gathered just as flowers open. Leaves can be picked at anytime.
Process lavender by laying stems on trays or hanging them in bundles.
04.
Lavender Water - Recipe
uses
This basic recipe has so many uses! Use it to freshen linens, as an herbal air freshener, as a hair tonic, or as a facial spritz (try refrigerating it).
ingredients & directions
1 ½ cups distilled water
½ rosewater (available in pharmacies)
50 drops
lavender essential oil
Combine all ingredients into a clean spray bottle. Shake before use.
05.
Choosing Guide - Graphic
for educational purposes only
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.