Lavender is a popular herb known for its soothing scent and many therapeutic benefits. This fragrant plant has been used for centuries in different parts of the world, including ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Today, lavender is still widely used in perfumes, soaps, and essential oils, but it can also be used in dried form for various purposes. If you have dried lavender flowers at home, here are some creative ways you can use them.
Create Relaxing Lavender Sachets
One of the simplest and most popular uses for dried lavender flowers is to create sachets that can be placed in drawers, closets, or even under your pillow. To make a lavender sachet, you’ll need dried lavender flowers, fabric scraps (such as cotton or linen), scissors, and a needle and thread.
Cut two squares of fabric to your preferred size, then place them together with the right sides facing each other. Stitch three sides of the fabric square together, leaving one side open. Fill the pouch with dried lavender flowers, then sew the remaining side shut. You can finish the sachet by adding a ribbon or decorative button.
Make Your Own Lavender Oil
Another way to use dried lavender flowers is to make your own lavender oil. This versatile oil can be used for massage, aromatherapy, or added to bathwater for a calming soak. To make lavender oil, you will need a carrier oil (such as jojoba or sweet almond oil) and dried lavender flowers.
Fill a glass jar with dried lavender flowers, then pour the carrier oil over the flowers until they are completely covered. Seal the jar and place it in a sunny spot for several weeks, shaking it daily. After a few weeks, strain the oil through a cheesecloth, then transfer it to a clean bottle or jar.
Bake with Lavender Flowers
Did you know that you can bake with dried lavender flowers? These fragrant flowers can add a unique flavor to baked goods such as cookies, cakes, and scones. However, it’s important to use culinary-grade lavender flowers rather than those sold for crafts or potpourri.
To use dried lavender flowers in baking, simply grind them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder. You can add the lavender powder to your favorite recipes as you would any other dry ingredient.
Create Homemade Lavender Soap
Lavender soap is a popular choice due to its soothing properties and pleasant scent. You can easily make your own lavender soap at home using dried lavender flowers, glycerin soap base, and essential oils.
Begin by melting the glycerin soap base according to the package instructions, then add a few drops of lavender essential oil and stir well. Add a handful of dried lavender flowers to the melted soap mixture, then pour the mixture into soap molds. Allow the soap to cool and harden before removing it from the mold.
Brew a Cup of Lavender Tea
Lavender tea is a calming beverage that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. You can make lavender tea using either fresh or dried lavender flowers.
To make lavender tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried lavender flowers in hot water for several minutes. Add honey or lemon juice as desired, then enjoy your soothing cup of tea.
Use Lavender Flowers in Crafts
Dried lavender flowers can also be used in a variety of craft projects. For example, you can create lavender wreaths by wrapping dried flowers around a grapevine wreath base. You can also make lavender-infused candles by adding dried flowers to melted wax before pouring it into candle molds.
Other craft projects that can benefit from the addition of dried lavender flowers include homemade potpourri, scented drawer liners, and floral arrangements.
In conclusion
dried lavender flowers offer a variety of creative possibilities beyond their traditional role in perfumes and essential oils. Whether you use them to create relaxing sachets, delicious baked goods, or soothing teas, lavender flowers can bring beauty and calm to your life. So why not try incorporating this timeless herb into your next DIY project?