Lavender

My favorite time of year... Lavender (Lavandula) is flowering and at its peak now, in June.

Lavender is an herb and has an array of uses. It is believed that Lavender has been used for approximately 2,500 years. For several Ancient civilizations around the Mediterranean, this plant was used as a holy herb. It was also used to make clothing and hair more fragrant.

Traditionally, this herb was used for various medicinal and healing purposes. These ranged from treating burns to reducing anxiety. Today, Lavender is the most popular of essential oils.

What's not to love about lavender? It's low maintenance and drought-tolerant, once established, it attracts bees and butterflies but is deer- and rabbit-resistant. This shrub is often referred to as a multipurpose plant and there is a good reason because of the many applications. Lavender is used to producing oil/essential oil, it can be used in cosmetics, medicine, cuisine and teas.

Lavender Natural Remedies may include the following: Induce sleep/relaxation/Promote calm by reducing anxiety/Treat mild pain/Improve skin conditions/Ease inflammation/Lower blood pressure/Ease hot flashes/Promote hair growth.

Wondering what to do with all that lavender you're growing in your yard? To enjoy the fragrance of lavender year-round, dry and preserve this beloved herb by hanging small bunches upside down in a dark, dry room until the moisture has evaporated. From soaps to sprays, Ive rounded up several lovely ways to enjoy your lavender. Here are several of my personal lavender recipes that I enjoy.

Easy Lavender Lemonade

A small handful of freshly picked and rinsed lavender

flowers or a tablespoon of dried lavender flowers

1 cup white sugar, or sugar substitute, or honey to taste

Two cups of boiling water for the infusion

1 1/2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 cups of cold water, add ice

and enjoy the refreshing summertime drink!

Lavender Roasted Potatoes

Potatoes (thin-skinned varieties like

New Potatoes or Red Potatoes)

Olive Oil

Kosher Salt

Freshly ground Black Pepper

Dried Lavender 9culinary grade)

Preheat oven 350 degrees

Cut unpeeled potatoes into bite sized pieces

In large bowl, toss the cut potatoes with olive oil

Add salt, pepper and lavender and toss again to fully coat

Spread potatoes on a baking sheet or roasting pan

Cook for 30 minutes,

Potatoes are done when the inside is soft

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