Lavender is one of the most popular and versatile herbs out there, known for its fragrant aroma and therapeutic benefits. This beautiful purple herb not only adds beauty to your garden but also can be used in culinary, medicinal and cosmetic purposes. If you’re new to using fresh lavender, it might be overwhelming to know what to do with it. Fear not, as we’ve got you covered!
In this article, we’ll explore different ways to use fresh lavender and why it is worth incorporating into your daily life. Whether you prefer to cook with herbs, create your own skincare products or just enjoy the enticing scent of lavender, this article will share the benefits of using fresh lavender and help you get creative with this versatile herb. So, let’s dive in and discover how to use fresh lavender to its fullest potential!
Different Ways to Incorporate Fresh Lavender in Your Cooking
Fresh lavender is a versatile herb that can be added to various dishes, both sweet and savory, to uplift their aroma and flavor profile. One of the most popular ways to use lavender in cooking is by infusing it into oils, syrups, and sauces. For example, you can add fresh lavender flowers into a jar of olive oil and let it sit for a few days to infuse the oil with the herb’s delicate perfume. Similarly, you could mix lavender into your favorite syrup recipe and use it to drizzle over pancakes or waffles for breakfast.
Another great way to incorporate fresh lavender into your cooking is by pairing it with different ingredients. For instance, you can mix chopped lavender flowers with goat cheese or ricotta and use it as a spread over a cracker or baguette. Lavender pairs well with fruits like peaches, strawberries, and blueberries, and can easily be added to desserts like pies, cakes, and tarts. The possibilities are endless when it comes to using fresh lavender in cooking, and experimenting with different recipes can lead to some surprisingly delicious results.
The Health Benefits of Using Fresh Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant and versatile herb that has immense health benefits. It is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. The essential oil extracted from lavender flowers is known to have a soothing aroma that acts as a natural stress-reliever. Its calming properties make it an effective tool in promoting relaxation and sleep. Lavender tea is known to help relieve headaches, cramps, and indigestion. Research has also found that lavender helps improve mood and cognitive function, making it an excellent choice for those struggling with anxiety and depression.
In addition to its mental health benefits, lavender has several physical health benefits as well. The herb has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent infections. Lavender oil is known to help reduce skin irritations such as eczema and psoriasis. It is also believed that lavender has analgesic properties that help alleviate pain. In summary, using fresh lavender can help improve mental and physical wellbeing while providing a soothing and relaxing aroma.
How to Make Your Own Lavender-Infused Oil
Lavender-infused oil is a versatile and easy-to-make product that can be used for many purposes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own:
First, gather fresh lavender flowers and a carrier oil such as olive, almond, or jojoba oil. Use a clean and dry jar with a tight-fitting lid. Fill the jar about one-third with lavender flowers and then pour the carrier oil over them, filling the jar all the way to the top. Put the lid on the jar and place it in a sunny spot for several weeks, shaking it every day or so to help infuse the oil. After 4-6 weeks, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean container. The resulting oil will be fragrant and can be used for massage, as a moisturizer, in bathwater or for cooking.
Using lavender-infused oil can impart a lovely aroma and soothing benefits to any number of your favorite recipes. Just remember to store it in a cool, dark place to help preserve its potency. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the benefits of lavender year-round!
Using Fresh Lavender in Your Skincare Routine
Lavender plants have a range of benefits for your skin. It is packed with antioxidants that helps rejuvenate and soothe the skin. Using fresh lavender in your skincare routine can help to cleanse and clear the skin of impurities, reduce inflammation and promote healing of any irritated areas.
To use fresh lavender in your skincare routine, you can add it to your bath water for a relaxing, fragrant soak. Alternatively, you can make a lavender-infused toner by steeping lavender buds in boiling water and letting it cool before straining and pouring into a spray bottle. You can also mix fresh lavender with carrier oils like coconut oil or almond oil to create your own facial oil that can be applied at night. Start by incorporating fresh lavender into your skincare routine and enjoy the benefits of this amazing plant!
The Art of Drying and Storing Fresh Lavender
Drying and storing fresh lavender is an art that requires careful attention to detail. It is important to dry the lavender thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew from growing. The easiest way to dry lavender is to hang it upside down in a cool, dry, dark place with good ventilation. Tie small bunches of lavender together with a rubber band or string and hang them from a clothesline or hanger. The process can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks depending on the humidity levels.
Once the lavender is fully dried, it is important to store it properly to retain its aroma and properties. The best way to store dried lavender is in an airtight container such as a glass jar or ziplock bag. Make sure to store the container in a dark, cool, and dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid crushing the dried lavender, as this can cause it to lose its potency. Properly dried and stored lavender can be used in a variety of ways such as herbal teas, sachets, potpourri, or added to your favorite recipes for a unique flavor and aroma.
Creative DIY Projects for Using Fresh Lavender in Your Home
If you’re looking for some fun and creative ways to use fresh lavender in your home, then look no further than these DIY projects. Not only are they fun to make, but they’ll also add a beautiful, calming fragrance to your space that will help you relax and unwind.
One idea is to make your own lavender oil. Simply steep a handful of lavender flowers in a bottle of carrier oil, such as coconut or almond oil, for a week or two. Then, strain out the flowers and use the oil in a diffuser, or add a few drops to your bathwater for a relaxing soak. You can also make lavender sachets by filling small fabric bags or organza pouches with dried lavender. These sachets can be placed in drawers or closets to keep clothes smelling fresh and clean.
Where to Find Fresh Lavender and When It’s in Season
Fresh lavender is a popular herb known for its relaxing fragrance and medicinal properties. If you’re looking for this beautiful herb, the best time to find fresh lavender is during the blooming season, which begins in mid-June and lasts until August. During this period, you can find fresh lavender at your local farmer’s market or farm stand.
If you live in an area known for lavender cultivation, there might be lavender farms nearby where you can buy fresh lavender. These farms often have fields of lavender that you can walk through and pick your own lavender. Some lavender farms also offer tours, workshops, and events where you can learn more about this versatile herb. Additionally, you can also find fresh lavender at health food stores, herb shops, and online specialty stores that specialize in herbs and natural remedies.
Conclusion
From all the aforementioned uses, it’s clear that fresh lavender is a valuable ingredient to have in any home. Whether used for culinary or therapeutic purposes, its distinctive fragrance can elevate any dish or bring about a soothing effect that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to cultivate and harvest.
In a world that’s constantly bombarding us with technological distractions, it’s refreshing to know that there are natural remedies readily available to us. Next time you’re feeling stressed or need to infuse some flavor into your cooking, consider using fresh lavender for an all-natural, delightful experience.