Lavender: Love It or Eat It

Lavender is one of those things that people love or hate. It took me awhile to appreciate it since I always associated the scent to the women’s restroom at the Elk’s Lodge my grandparents went to. But lavender is more than lotions and sachets.

Below are a few books in our collection that contain some of the ways I’ve fallen hard for lavender.

Lavender: 50 Self-care Recipes and Projects for Natural Wellness by Bonnie Louise Gillis
My favorite form has been lavender syrup in coffee drinks – add it to an americano or a chai latte. Elevates it to a whole other level! This book has a whole section on beverages, and I’m obsessed with every single one. But there’s also so much more that will have you treating your self – mind, body, and stomach.

Growing Your Own Cocktails, Mocktails, Teas & Infusions: Gardening Tips and How-to Techniques for Making Artisanal Beverages at Home by Jodi Helmer
Another excellent way to use lavender is in cocktails or mocktails, like a Lavender Mojito and Lavender Lemonade. This book also has plentiful profiles on a multitude of plants and how to use their leaves, flowers, roots, and fruits to create your own beverage garden.

The Cocktail Hour Garden: Creating Evening Landscapes for Relaxation and Entertaining by C. L. Fornari
I feel like most of my 2020 was spent outside. Fence parties with neighbors, baby showers on patios, and with that extension of space came a more intentional eye to the garden. Best thing about lavender is the scent relieves stress; bonus that it’s pollinator friendly!  The combination of the scent, feeling relaxed and knowing that bees are doing their business will truly benefit any outdoor space. But more than that it can be used in desserts, cocktails, and savory treats. Lavender and others can make cocktail hour even better!

~posted by Kara P.