Lavender Simple Syrup

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Ingredients​

• 3 tablespoons of lavender buds

• 1 cup granulated sugar (can substitute coconut sugar)

• 1 cup water

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Instructions

In a saucepan, combine the lavender buds and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then add the sugar. Lower the heat so it maintains a gentle boil, and continue to stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves. Lower the heat and allow the mixture to simmer for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the lavender buds to steep as the mixture cools. Taste the syrup after 15 minutes. If there is not enough flavor, allow the mixture to steep a little longer or until you reach your desired taste. Strain the liquid into a container and store in the refrigerator for 2 – 3 weeks.  

Common Name: Lavender
Scientific Name: Lavandula officinalis
Other Names: Common Lavender, True Lavender, Garden Lavender, Lavanda, Lavandula, Spikenard, Lavandula Angustifolia.

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History

Lavender is an evergreen, perennial shrub that can grow 1 – 3 feet in height. It falls under the flowering plants of the mint family. The most widely cultivated species, Lavandula angustifolia, is the one that is often referred to as lavender. The name comes from the color of the flowers, which are a violet-blue in color, or lavender. Lavender is appreciated for its sweet fragrance and beauty. Lavender is native to the Mediterranean, Middle East, and India and has been used at least 2,500 years. The word lavender comes from the Latin word for “lavare,” meaning, “to wash.” Many ancient cultures used this herb in baths, beds, clothes, on their bodies, and in their hair. 

The ancient Egyptians used lavender during mummification. The Romans used lavender oils for bathing and cooking. The flower’s soothing characteristics, as well as the insect-repellent effects of the fragrance added to the value of the herb at the time. In Medieval and Renaissance Europe, the washing women were known as “lavenders.” They used lavender to scent drawers and dried the laundry on lavender bushes. 

There are many medical uses for lavender as well. The plant is grown for extraction of its oil from its flowers. The oil is gathered through a distillation process. The oil is used as a disinfectant, an antiseptic, an anti-inflammatory, and for aromatherapy. Lavender oil is said to soothe headaches, migraines, and motion sickness when applied to the temples. Lavender can be used as a sleep aid and to help induce relaxation. 

Lavender is a common ingredient in Herbs de Provence, an herb combination that captures the flavors of the south of France. Lavender will offer a wonderful, sweet flavor to salads, soups, and meat dishes. It is also a nice addition to certain sweet desserts and baked goods. Lavender can be used as a substitution for rosemary in most recipes.