Asides being the plant on which the color ‘lavender’ is based, almost everyone is familiar with the sweet smelling fragrance of lavender (Lavandula), a plant of the mint family. It is commonly used as an ornamental plant, a culinary herb or to produce essential oils. From the occasional headache to the epidemics, lavender is known for its protective abilities. It is one of the numerous herbs that have the ability to make us feel better and experience a more quality life.
Season and Cultivation
Lavender can be found in Africa, the Mediterranean regions, Europe, Australia and some parts of the United States. The best place to cultivate lavender is in dry, gravelly or sandy soil with access to sunlight and good air circulation. Most types do not require fertilizers to grow. They are adventurous plants that can quickly grow beyond their natural range and can become invasive.
Products in which it is used
Lavender is mostly used for its fragrance. The plant is grown commercially for the production of essential oils which is used in cosmetics, perfumes, and balms. Extracts from lavender are also used as fragrances in bath products or as a natural mosquito repellent. Lavender buds (flowers) are used as a flavor in cooking, baking, desserts and to make lavender sugar. Its leaves are used to flavor vegetables and meat and can be used to make tea.
Nutritional Information
Lavender contains vitamin A, C, calcium, and iron. It is low in calories but has high amounts of compounds such as antioxidants. That means it can help detoxify the body. It also contains caffeic acid known to reduce tumor growth or the risk of cancer.
Medicinal Use
Due to its calming effects, lavenders can combat stress and insomnia when taken as tea. Also, lavenders in capsule form are a safer alternative to conventional treatments of anxiety. Besides, you can add it to bathwater to relieve tired muscles. Lavender is also used in skin care to combat chronic conditions like eczema and acne. Moreover, it is used as an antiseptic to prevent infections.
Culinary Use
There are many ways to use the lavender in the kitchen. It is low in calorie and free of cholesterol which makes it a healthy food. It can be used in salads dressing, as a spice for cultural dishes, sauces, beverages or mixed with honey. Do you want to try out a lavender recipe? Check out the lavender-cheese cake.
At the Namkhan Village guests will get to enjoy delicious meals prepared with fresh herbs such as lavender. Our Spanish Mediterranean inspired organic restaurants will offer as much as possible from the farm. Our cuisines include salads, micro greens, and salads juices, vegetable fruit smoothies, some Spanish tapas, or tortillas.
