Lavender Flower (Organic)

Lavender Flower (Organic) is whole dried flower buds of Lavandula angustifolia, the true or English lavender, grown organically and harvested so the buds arrive intact and fragrant. Use them for a naturally scented cup of tea, a floral touch in baking, and crafts such as bath mixes, sachets and potpourri. Offered in 4oz, 1LB and 10lb sizes.

At a glance

• Whole dried buds of Lavandula angustifolia, true English lavender
• Essential oil of linalool and linalyl acetate, low camphor, plus tannins and flavonoids
• Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons per cup for 5 to 10 minutes with a lid on
• No caffeine
• For tea, baking, bath mixes, sachets and potpourri; in 4oz, 1LB and 10lb sizes

The herb. Lavandula angustifolia belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae, and is native to the dry, stony hills of the western Mediterranean; the name comes from the Latin lavare, to wash, for the way the Romans scented bathwater with it. The flowers carry an essential oil dominated by linalool and linalyl acetate, with only a little camphor, plus tannins and flavonoids, and that low camphor separates true lavender from its hybrids. Linalool gives the soft, floral character, linalyl acetate the sweet top note. There is no caffeine.

How to use. Use a teaspoon or two of buds per cup of hot water and steep 5 to 10 minutes with a lid on to keep the volatile oils in the cup. Start at one teaspoon: too much tips the flavor from floral to soapy. Most people keep to one evening cup, or half a teaspoon blended with chamomile or lemon balm so the lavender sits in the background.

What to expect. A fragrant, mellow, calming cup to wind down with, not heavy or sedating. For a more body-focused evening cup, pair it with Organic Passion Flower; for crafts that want a bigger scent, see Lavandin Flowers.

Safety. Lavender in tea amounts is well tolerated by most adults. Very strong or repeated cups can bring a headache, mild nausea or drowsiness in some people, and it can irritate sensitive skin; lighten the steep or stop. Lavender may add to the effect of sedative medications and other wind-down herbs, so keep amounts light if you combine them. Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing or taking any medication.

Storage. Whole Lavender flowers (Lavandula angustifolia). Keep in an airtight package away from sunlight and heat to preserve the fragrance and freshness.

Common questions

• How much lavender flower should I use for a cup of tea? A teaspoon or two per cup, steeped 5 to 10 minutes, starting at the low end.
• Can I bake with these organic lavender flowers? Yes, a pinch ground with sugar adds a floral note to cookies and breads.

Disclaimer. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Lavender is a traditional botanical, and traditional use does not establish that it will produce any particular result. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you take any medication or have a medical condition. Use at your own risk and keep out of reach of children. Formulated by Healing Herbals, run by a practicing herbalist of 13+ years.