Can I Put Lavender in My Water to Drink?
Yes, you can safely put lavender in your water to drink, but only if you use culinary-grade lavender buds and not lavender essential oil. The key to creating a delicious and safe beverage is understanding the distinction between culinary and ornamental lavender and following proper preparation methods. Lavender has a long history of use as an herbal remedy for its calming and soothing properties. However, consuming the wrong type or preparation, especially concentrated essential oils, can be harmful.
The Critical Difference: Culinary vs. Ornamental Lavender
Not all lavender is created equal, particularly when it comes to consumption. The variety of the plant and how it was grown determines its safety and flavor profile.
- Culinary Lavender: This refers specifically to varieties with lower camphor content, which prevents a bitter, medicinal taste. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is the most popular choice for cooking and infusing due to its sweet, floral notes. Reputable sources will label their lavender as "culinary grade".
- Ornamental Lavender: These varieties are grown for their fragrance or aesthetic appeal rather than for consumption. They often have high camphor levels and can taste bitter or soapy if ingested. These may also be treated with pesticides or chemicals that are unsafe for drinking.
How to Tell Your Lavender is Edible
To ensure your lavender is safe for consumption, always purchase from a food-safe supplier and verify the species. When using lavender from your garden, you must be 100% certain it is an English variety (Lavandula angustifolia) and has never been treated with pesticides. When in doubt, it is best to assume it is not edible for safety.
Comparing Culinary vs. Ornamental Lavender
| Feature | Culinary Lavender | Ornamental Lavender |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Primarily Lavandula angustifolia (English) |
Varieties like Lavandula stoechas (Spanish) or other decorative types |
| Camphor Content | Very low (typically under 0.5%) | High (can be 15-25%), causing a bitter taste |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, floral, and subtle | Strong, pungent, and medicinal |
| Best For | Infusions, baking, cooking | Aromatherapy, potpourri, decoration |
| Pesticide-Free | Must be specifically grown without chemicals for safety | May contain chemical residues unsafe for consumption |
How to Make Safe Lavender-Infused Water
Making a calming lavender beverage is straightforward and can be done with either hot or cold water. Always use filtered water and quality culinary-grade buds for the best flavor and safety.
Hot Infusion (Lavender Tea)
- Bring 8-10 ounces of water to a boil, then let it cool slightly for about a minute.
- Place 1-2 teaspoons of dried culinary lavender buds into a tea infuser or directly into your mug.
- Pour the hot water over the lavender and steep for 5-10 minutes, adjusting for desired strength.
- Strain the buds and enjoy. Add a touch of honey or a slice of lemon to taste.
Cold Infusion (Lavender Water)
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried culinary lavender buds to a pitcher or jar.
- Fill the container with 2-4 cups of filtered, cold water.
- Refrigerate for at least 4-24 hours to allow the flavor to infuse.
- Strain the buds before serving. The longer you infuse, the stronger the flavor.
Potential Benefits of Drinking Lavender Water
- Promotes Relaxation and Sleep: Lavender's soothing effects can ease anxiety and reduce tension, making it a great pre-bedtime drink.
- Supports Digestive Health: It can help relax the digestive tract, potentially relieving indigestion, bloating, and nausea.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Lavender contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe conditions like headaches and menstrual cramps.
- Provides Antioxidants: The herb contains antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress.
The Dangers of Ingesting Lavender Essential Oil
It is crucial to understand that lavender essential oil is highly concentrated and must not be ingested directly. Essential oils can be toxic when swallowed and can cause severe symptoms, including gastrointestinal, neurologic, and respiratory issues, even in small amounts. Only use culinary-grade buds for making beverages. If you are ever unsure, consult a professional or avoid consumption.
Contraindications and Precautions
While generally safe in food amounts, certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid lavender altogether.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is insufficient reliable information to confirm safety, so it is best to avoid use.
- Children: For prepubescent males, topical lavender oil has been linked to hormonal disruptions. While oral safety isn't as well-studied, it's recommended to limit consumption in children.
- Surgery: Lavender can slow down the central nervous system. Stop using lavender at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
- Medication Interactions: Lavender can interact with sedative medications, causing excessive sleepiness. Consult a healthcare provider if you take any central nervous system depressants.
- Allergies: People allergic to lavender or other mint family plants may experience an allergic reaction.
Conclusion: Enjoy Lavender Water Responsibly
Infusing water with culinary-grade lavender buds is a wonderful and safe way to enjoy its flavor and potential calming benefits. It's a simple process that can result in a refreshing beverage perfect for relaxation. The most important rule to remember is to always use products specifically intended for consumption and never to ingest concentrated lavender essential oil. When in doubt about using lavender, particularly for individuals with specific health conditions or who are pregnant, consulting a healthcare professional is always the wisest course of action. For more information on lavender and its uses, you can consult reliable resources like the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
