Yes, you absolutely can put dried lavender in water, and it is a common practice for various purposes.
Dried lavender buds are frequently used to infuse water, imparting their pleasant scent and flavor. While fresh, fully opened blossoms are ideal for the very best colour and scent when making flower water, the reference confirms that dried lavender buds also work, but the colour is not as intense.
Uses for Dried Lavender in Water
Putting dried lavender in water serves several functions, leveraging its aromatic and flavorful properties.
- Making Herbal Tea: One of the most popular uses is steeping dried lavender buds in hot water to create a soothing and aromatic herbal tea.
- Creating Scented Water: Dried lavender can be added to water to make fragrant room sprays, linen sprays, or potpourri refreshers.
- Crafts and Potpourri: Dried lavender buds in water can contribute scent to homemade potpourri or other craft projects.
- Bathwater Infusion: Adding a sachet of dried lavender to a bath infuses the water with a relaxing aroma.
Differences Between Fresh and Dried Lavender in Water
As highlighted in the reference, there are subtle differences when using dried versus fresh lavender:
- Colour Intensity: Using dried buds results in a less vibrant colour in the water compared to fresh blossoms.
- Scent Potency: While the reference notes fresh provides the "very best" scent, dried lavender still retains a significant amount of fragrance, making it effective for infusion.
- Availability: Dried lavender is available year-round, making it a convenient option when fresh flowers are not in season.
How to Use Dried Lavender in Water
Here are some simple ways to utilize dried lavender in water:
- For Tea: Place 1-2 teaspoons of dried buds in a tea infuser or sachet. Pour hot water over it and steep for 5-10 minutes.
- For Scented Water: Add a handful of dried buds to a jar or bottle, fill with water, and let it sit for several hours or days to infuse. Strain before use.
- For Bath: Place dried buds in a muslin bag or sachet and drop into warm bathwater.
Incorporating dried lavender into water is a straightforward way to enjoy its many benefits, from culinary delights like tea to aromatic applications around the home.
