Herb of the Week: Lavender

Farmer Dana collecting and relocating swallowtail butterfly larvae from field grown dill to the herb garden where they can more safely proceed to their subsequent life-cycle stages.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Benefits

Reduce anxiety
Improve sleep quality

Uses:

Lavender leaves can be substituted for Rosemary – but use in small quantities so you don’t overpower the dish.
Lavender tea – Pour 8 oz of boiling water over 4 teaspoons of fresh lavender buds. Steep for 10 minutes and then strain and enjoy. Don’t steep too long or else your tea will taste soapy!
Satchels of dried or fresh leaves and flowers in a dresser drawer as a moth and bug deterrent.
Satchel of dried or fresh leaves and flowers in the dryer when drying clothes.
Add to cakes or breads.
Add Lavender to Lemonade.
I found this recipe for Blackberry-Lavender White Chocolate Scones (I have not tried it yet but it sounds dreamy!) https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/blackberry-lavender-white-chocolate-scones/
And this recipe for Blueberry Lavender Jam (Also not tried, but it is on my to do list!) https://lovelygreens.com/blueberry-jam-with-lavender-honey/

Safe for cats:

No – if ingested or absorbed, lavender can cause liver damage and possibly poison cats. Even diffusing lavender (from essential oils) can cause respiratory issues.

Safe for dogs:

No – only toxic if ingested in LARGE amounts; when used with care, using lavender oil topically or with a diffuser can help calm doggy anxiety.

For more details please refer to https://www.aleavia.com/blogs/news/is-lavender-safe-for-dogs#:~:text=Can%20dogs%20eat%20lavender%3F,to%20dogs%20in%20large%20amounts

Cautions