Understanding Culinary Lavender
Not all lavender is created equal when it comes to consumption. The genus Lavandula includes nearly 50 species, but only a few are ideal for culinary applications like brewing tea. The primary difference lies in the concentration of camphor, a compound that gives many lavender varieties a strong, medicinal, or bitter taste. Culinary-grade lavender is specifically cultivated for its flavor profile, and is free of the pesticides and chemicals often found on ornamental varieties.
The Top Choice: English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
For the smoothest, sweetest, and most consistently delicious flavor, the consensus among herbalists and chefs is that English lavender is the best type for tea. It has a much lower camphor content than other popular varieties like Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia), which means your tea will have a floral, gentle flavor instead of a soapy or overpowering one.
Popular English Lavender Cultivars for Tea
- 'Munstead': A very popular and reliable choice for culinary use, offering a balanced, sweet floral fragrance that is perfect for beverages.
- 'Hidcote': Known for its intense dark purple color and potent, sweet aroma. This variety holds its flavor well when dried for later use.
- 'Royal Velvet': This cultivar features deep purple buds and a robust flavor, making it a great option for both tea and decorative culinary finishes.
The Lavenders to Avoid for Tea
While harmless for aromatherapy, some lavender varieties have a flavor that makes them less desirable for drinking.
- Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia): This hybrid, a cross between English and Spike lavender, is often used for essential oil production and is highly fragrant. However, its high camphor content gives it a potent, medicinal aftertaste that many find unpleasant in tea. Varieties include 'Grosso' and 'Provence'.
- Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas): Recognizable by its distinctive "bunny ear" petals, Spanish lavender is typically not recommended for culinary purposes due to its strong, piney, and bitter flavor.
- Ornamental varieties: Any lavender not explicitly labeled as culinary should be avoided. These may have been treated with pesticides not intended for ingestion.
Comparison of Lavender Varieties for Tea
| Feature | English Lavender (L. angustifolia) | Lavandin (L. x intermedia) | Spanish Lavender (L. stoechas) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for Tea? | Yes | No (bitter taste) | No (bitter taste) |
| Camphor Content | Low | High | High |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, delicate, floral | Strong, pungent, medicinal | Piney, bitter |
| Typical Uses | Culinary, aromatherapy | Oil production, fragrance | Ornamental |
| Varieties | Munstead, Hidcote | Grosso, Provence | Kew Red, Otto Quast |
How to Brew the Perfect Lavender Tea
Brewing lavender tea is a simple process, but requires careful attention to detail to avoid a bitter taste. The key is to not over-steep the delicate buds.
Simple Brewing Instructions
- Bring 8–10 ounces of water to a boil, then remove from heat and let it cool for about a minute. Using water that is too hot can 'burn' the buds and release bitterness.
- Add 1–2 teaspoons of dried culinary lavender buds to a tea infuser or directly into your cup. If using fresh flowers, use slightly more.
- Pour the hot water over the lavender and let it steep for 5–7 minutes for a mild flavor. You can steep up to 10 minutes for a stronger taste.
- Strain out the lavender buds if they were added directly to the cup.
- Enhance the flavor with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of honey, if desired.
Benefits and Considerations of Lavender Tea
Drinking tea made with culinary lavender can provide a range of potential health benefits, though moderate consumption is key.
Potential Benefits
- Stress Reduction: The calming and anxiolytic properties of compounds like linalool can help soothe nerves and reduce anxiety.
- Improved Sleep: Often enjoyed before bed, lavender's relaxing effects can aid in promoting better sleep quality.
- Digestive Support: It can help relieve issues like bloating, stomach cramps, and gas by relaxing the digestive tract muscles.
- Antioxidant Properties: Lavender contains antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress.
Important Considerations
- Moderation: Overconsumption can lead to side effects like drowsiness, headaches, or digestive upset in some individuals.
- Contraindications: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as children under 12, should generally avoid lavender tea.
- Drug Interactions: Lavender can have a sedative effect and may interact with medications that also slow the central nervous system. Consult a healthcare provider if you are on any medication.
- Source Quality: Ensure you are always using culinary-grade lavender from a reputable source, as essential oils should never be ingested.
Conclusion
When seeking the best type of lavender for tea, the choice is clear: culinary-grade English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia). Its naturally low camphor content produces a sweet, floral, and delicious brew perfect for relaxation. By using specific cultivars like 'Munstead' or 'Hidcote' and following proper brewing guidelines, you can ensure a delightful and calming experience. Remember to always source your lavender from a reputable provider and enjoy in moderation to reap the benefits of this soothing herbal tea. For more information on complementary health, consult resources from organizations like the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
