Is it Safe to Drink Lavender in Drinks? A Comprehensive Guide

According to the U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, culinary lavender is considered likely safe in the small amounts typically used in foods and drinks. This means that while some varieties are suitable for consumption, others are not and can pose health risks if ingested. This guide will help you understand the nuances of safely drinking lavender in beverages.

Quick Summary

The safety of drinking lavender depends on using the correct variety, specifically culinary-grade English lavender, and avoiding concentrated essential oils. Proper preparation and dosage are crucial to prevent side effects, though most people can enjoy it safely in moderation.

Key Points

• Use Culinary Grade Only: Only consume lavender specifically labeled as 'culinary grade' and sourced from Lavandula angustifolia to ensure safety.

• Avoid Essential Oils: Never ingest lavender essential oil, as it is highly concentrated and toxic when consumed.

• Mind the Variety: Ornamental lavenders, particularly Spanish and French varieties, often contain high levels of bitter-tasting camphor and should not be used in drinks.

• Potential Health Benefits: Proper consumption of culinary lavender may offer calming effects, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and aid digestion.

• Start with a Small Amount: Begin with a small quantity of lavender to find your preferred flavor profile and avoid an overly strong, soapy taste.

• Know Who Should Avoid It: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, young children (especially males), individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers, and those on sedating medications should be cautious or avoid lavender.

The Critical Difference: Culinary vs. Ornamental Lavender

Not all lavender is created equal, and this is the most critical factor for answering the question: is it safe to drink lavender in drinks? There are over 47 known species of the flowering plant, but only a few are suitable for consumption. Culinary lavender, primarily sourced from the English lavender species (Lavandula angustifolia), is known for its sweet, floral flavor with low camphor content. Camphor is a compound that gives many ornamental varieties, such as Lavandula stoechas (Spanish lavender), a harsh, bitter, or medicinal taste and can cause digestive discomfort. Concentrated essential oils, designed for topical or aromatic use, are highly toxic when ingested and must be strictly avoided. Always use buds specifically labeled as "culinary grade" to ensure both safety and a pleasant flavor.

Potential Benefits of Drinking Lavender

When properly prepared, consuming culinary lavender in drinks may offer several potential benefits, primarily linked to its calming properties and active compounds. These include:

• Anxiety and Stress Reduction: Lavender is widely known for its ability to calm the nervous system. Linalool and linalyl acetate, compounds found in lavender, have an anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effect.
• Improved Sleep Quality: The calming effect of lavender can aid in relaxation and promote better sleep, especially when consumed as a warm tea before bed.
• Digestive Support: Lavender has antispasmodic properties that may help soothe digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and cramps.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Compounds in lavender have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to protect the body from oxidative stress.
• Support for Mood: Studies suggest that drinking lavender tea may help reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall mood.

How to Safely Prepare Lavender Drinks

To ensure your lavender drink is delicious and safe, follow these preparation guidelines:

1. Use Culinary Grade Only: Purchase dried or fresh culinary-grade Lavandula angustifolia from a reputable source. Avoid garden-variety or ornamental lavender and never use essential oils.
2. Make a Simple Syrup: A simple syrup is one of the most effective ways to infuse lavender's flavor. Combine equal parts water and sugar, bring to a boil, then add the lavender buds. Simmer briefly, remove from heat, and let it steep for 30 minutes before straining.
3. Brew a Herbal Tea: For a simple, soothing tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried culinary lavender buds in 1 cup of hot (not boiling) water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and enjoy.
4. Use Sparingly: A little lavender goes a long way. Use a small amount at first to avoid an overpowering, soapy flavor.
5. Serve Mindfully: Garnish your drinks with a fresh sprig of edible lavender for aroma and visual appeal.

Comparison of Lavender Forms

Lavender Form	Suitability for Drinks	Key Safety Points	Taste Profile
Culinary Buds (Dried)	Excellent	Must be Lavandula angustifolia or labeled as "culinary grade". Purchase from a trusted source to avoid pesticides.	Mild, sweet, floral notes.
Culinary Buds (Fresh)	Good	Ensure organically grown and free of pesticides. Wash thoroughly before use.	More delicate, fresh floral flavor.
Lavender Simple Syrup	Excellent	A great way to control dosage and flavor. Homemade is best to avoid artificial ingredients.	Consistent, sweet, floral taste.
Lavender Essential Oil	NEVER	EXTREMELY TOXIC IF INGESTED. Can cause severe irritation, systemic toxicity, and damage to the digestive system.	Highly concentrated, medicinal taste. Poisonous.
Ornamental Varieties	AVOID	Many varieties (e.g., Spanish, French lavender) are high in camphor, leading to potential digestive upset.	Bitter, medicinal, and unpalatable.

Conclusion

Is it safe to drink lavender in drinks? Yes, but only when you take the necessary precautions. By using culinary-grade Lavandula angustifolia in moderate amounts and avoiding dangerous essential oils or non-edible varieties, you can safely enjoy the subtle, floral flavor and calming benefits this herb has to offer. Always source your lavender responsibly and, as with any herbal remedy, consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take sedating medications.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put any kind of lavender in a drink?

No, you should only use culinary-grade lavender, typically Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender), in drinks. Other varieties may contain high levels of camphor, which can cause digestive issues and a bitter taste.

Is lavender essential oil safe to drink?

No, lavender essential oil is never safe to drink. It is highly concentrated and can be toxic if ingested, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and severe irritation.

What does lavender taste like in a drink?

When using culinary-grade lavender, the flavor is typically mild, floral, and slightly sweet. It is distinct from the more medicinal or bitter taste of other lavender varieties.

What are the common side effects of drinking lavender?

When consumed in excess or improperly, lavender may cause side effects such as headache, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. Allergic reactions are also possible in sensitive individuals.

Who should avoid drinking lavender?

Pregnant and breastfeeding women, young children, and individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers should exercise caution or avoid consuming lavender. Those on sedating medications should also consult a doctor.

How do you make a lavender drink?

A simple way is to create a lavender simple syrup. Boil equal parts sugar and water, add culinary-grade lavender buds, and let it steep before straining. This syrup can then be added to teas, cocktails, or lemonade.

Does the FDA approve lavender for food?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally recognizes lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) as safe (GRAS) for use in foods in small quantities. However, this does not apply to essential oils or non-culinary varieties.