The scent of lavender only really unfolds as it dries. Here we show how to dry lavender and where the flowers are used.
The fragrant lavender (Lavandula) was already known to the ancient Egyptians, who used it to embalm their dead. Later, lavender gave the Romans courage before approaching battles and served them as a medicinal plant for soldiers. Today, mostly the dried flowers of the real lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) are used, which are used in cosmetics, in the household and even in the kitchen. But what makes the purple Mediterranean herb so special and what is the best way to dry it? We have summarized the answers to these questions for you in this article.
Dry Lavender
The main harvest time for lavender is between June and August when it is in bloom. In order for the flowers to dry faster and not run the risk of mold, the lavender should only be harvested on dry days. It is best to cut back the entire lavender bush when it blooms (mid-July). Only the blooming branch tips are used for drying. It is therefore best to shorten the stems about 10 centimeters below the base of the flower. After the harvest, the freshly cut panicles are first spread out on a cloth and dried. After a few days they can also be hung up in bundles. So that the aroma is not lost after a short time, you should store the dried lavender flowers in a dark, cool and dry place - for example in an airtight jar in the storage cellar.
Summary of drying lavender:
- Harvest time from June to August
- Harvest only on dry days
- Cut branches about 10 cm below the base of the flower
- Spread these out on a cloth
- Hang up in bunches after a few days
- Dark, dry storage in jars or cans
Ingredients and Uses of Lavender
Contains dried lavender flowersin addition to tannins and other secondary plant substances, up to three percent essential oil, which gives them their spicy aroma. The composition of the essential oil is extremely complex. So far, researchers have been able to identify over 150 compounds in this. The main components linalool and linalyl acetate together account for up to 75 percent. But other components - such as cineol, borneol and camphor - also play an important role in the overall aroma.
Use of lavender as a medicinal plant
The essential oil is obtained by steam distillation for use in cosmetics and natural medicine. It is one of the few essential oils that can be applied directly to the skin. For example, it can be used as a wound healing agent for burns and minor injuries. But it can also be used to repel mosquitoes on balmy summer evenings.
In exciting times, the scent of lavender also provides calm and balance. It effectively drives away sleep robbers and brightens the mood. Lavender is a classic nerve relaxant that has a relaxing effect without making us tired. The Mediterranean herb also provides relaxation for headaches. In addition to using the essential oil, you can also drink the dried flowers as a tea or use them as a bath additive.
For home use, the flowers can also be used to make an oil extract. All parts of the plant should be well covered with native vegetable oil (e.g. olive oil) to avoid mold growth. After 10 to 14 days, the homemade lavender oil is ready and you can use it as a fragrant massage oil to relieve tense muscles.
Uses of lavender in the home
Due to its ingredients, lavender is a natural disinfectant and can noticeably clean the air in rooms. Even the Latin name of the plant indicates its benefits, because "lavare" means "to wash". Lavender extracts and the essential oil can be used very well for sustainable household cleaning. Just add a few drops to the floor mopping water or clean refrigerators and shelves with it. As a delicately scented ironing water, it can also be used to moisten the laundry. If you still haven't had enough of the aromatic scent, you can also fill small scented cushions with lavender blossoms from your own garden and fill your laundry with themperfume - these even help against moths in the closet.
Uses of lavender in the kitchen
The intensive lavender aroma tastes best in the kitchen in combination with other herbs and spices. The "Herbs of Provence" mixture, for example, is particularly popular, as is the combination with sage, rosemary, lemon zest or orange zest with all kinds of Mediterranean dishes, spicy cheese or grilled meat. Lavender blossoms also taste great in homemade herb butter, lavender vinegar or herbal s alt. Even in desserts, the slightly tart lavender aroma harmonizes surprisingly well with peaches, apricots, citrus fruits or honey.
If you are interested in the diversity of lavender, you should definitely take a look at our list of species and varieties here.