Tag: Edible lavender

With a history stretching back over 2,500 years, lavender was used by ancient civilizations for bathing and healing, but its use in cuisine is what often surprises people today. The simple act of eating lavender can offer a unique floral flavor and potential health benefits, provided you use the correct culinary variety.

With over 400 varieties of lavender in the world, the question is: can you use any lavender for food? The answer is a definitive no, and knowing the difference between culinary and ornamental species is crucial for achieving delicious and safe results.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, it is likely safe to consume lavender in the small amounts typically used in foods. This applies specifically to culinary-grade varieties, but raises a critical question: is lavender powder safe to eat in all its forms?

Despite its widespread use in teas and desserts, the genus *Lavandula* has nearly 50 known species, and it is a common misconception that you can consume any lavender. Only specific culinary varieties should be used for food, while others contain high levels of compounds like camphor that can be unpleasant or even unsafe.

Over 47 species exist within the Lavandula genus, but not all are created equal when it comes to consumption. So, can you eat lavender straight? The short answer is that while culinary varieties are safe in controlled amounts, directly consuming non-culinary or raw plant parts can be risky and result in an unpleasant, soapy taste.

While English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has been evaluated as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. FDA for use in food when used in small quantities, many other ornamental lavender varieties are not recommended for culinary use. Knowing what lavender is not edible is crucial to avoid an unpleasantly bitter flavor or, in the case of essential oils, potential toxicity.

While lavender is most famous for its relaxing aroma, certain varieties are perfectly edible and can be enjoyed in their raw form. However, not all lavender is created equal, and consuming the wrong type or an uncleaned plant can lead to unpleasant, or even toxic, results. The key to answering 'Can I eat lavender raw?' lies in understanding the specific species and preparation methods.