| Country of
Origin: |
France |
| Cup
Characteristics: |
Mild with a distinctive floral perfume and
slight pungency. |
| Ingredients: |
Luxury lavender blossoms. |
| Form: |
Loose Leaves |
| Infusion: |
Tending mauve to purple depending upon the
amount used. |
|
|
Description:
The lavender fields of Provence have been described, "In the
solitude of the Lure Mountains, lavender grows
everywhere". At harvest time the evenings are lavender
embalmed. When you have lived the lavender nights and the
days, you are forever attached to the spirit of this
perfume. Lavender flowers are gathered when they first
start to bloom and are dried on a cloth, as they tend to fall
apart. Lavender is most often used for perfuming,
but it is also an excellent plant for infusions and has an
agreeable floral flavor.
Herbalists recommend lavender to treat migraines, ease
digestive spasms. Lavender is also used for soothing the
nervous system.
To make a nice vinegar based cleansing lotion to sweeten
bathwater and use as a hair rinse after shampooing, soak 1/2
cup of lavender in 1 quart of cider vinegar and allow to 'brew'
for 1 week.
Tea uses: Lavender has quite an aroma and flavor
profile and it is often used to give a tea a special
signature. Lavender mixed with Earl Grey gives a
very interesting twist.
Hot Brewing Method:
Bring freshly drawn cold water to just before a boil. Place 1
teaspoon of tea for each cut in the teapot. Pour your hot water
over the leaves. Let steep for 3-7 minutes according to taste
(The longer the steeping time the stronger the tea). Add milk
and sugar to taste.
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