Lavender honey is a delightful fusion of raw honey and lavender blossoms (Lavandula angustifolia), offering a blend of sweetness and therapeutic benefits.
Whether infused at home or sourced from monofloral lavender fields, this honey is more than just a treat; it’s a natural remedy.
Renowned for its calming effects, skin-soothing properties, and digestive support, lavender honey is a versatile addition to your wellness routine.
Let’s explore its proven health benefits, practical uses, and how you can create your own lavender honey.
#1. Promotes Relaxation and Reduces Stress
Lavender’s calming aroma, combined with the serotonin-boosting effects of honey, makes lavender honey an excellent natural stress reliever.
A 2012 study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine confirmed that lavender aromatherapy reduced anxiety and improved mood in participants.
When consumed, these benefits extend to promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
#2. Supports Restful Sleep
Lavender honey is a natural sleep aid. Honey stabilizes blood sugar levels overnight, while lavender relaxes the nervous system, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
You can stir a teaspoon of lavender honey into warm chamomile tea for a perfect bedtime drink.
#3. Soothes Digestive Discomfort
Lavender has antispasmodic properties that calm the stomach, and honey acts as a prebiotic, nourishing healthy gut bacteria. This combination aids digestion and alleviates bloating.
You just need to take a spoonful of lavender honey after meals or mix it into peppermint tea to soothe an upset stomach.
#4. Natural Remedy for Coughs and Sore Throats
Honey is well-known for its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation, while lavender’s antimicrobial properties help fight respiratory infections.
A 2007 study in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that honey was more effective than dextromethorphan (a common cough suppressant) in reducing nighttime coughing in children over 1 year old.
#5. Skin Healing and Hydration
Lavender’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, paired with honey’s natural wound-healing abilities, make lavender honey a powerful salve for burns, cuts, and dry skin.
You can apply lavender honey directly to minor burns or mix it with sugar for a gentle exfoliating scrub.
#6. Rich in Antioxidants
Lavender honey is packed with antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress, helping to protect cells from damage and support overall health.
Regular consumption may improve skin elasticity and promote a youthful appearance by combating free radicals.
How to Use Lavender Honey Effectively
1. Culinary Uses
Lavender honey offers a delightful range of culinary applications. For instance, you can drizzle it over yogurt, oatmeal, or fresh fruit for a sweet and healthy topping.
Additionally, you can add it to tea, coffee, or lemonade for a touch of floral sweetness. Furthermore, it pairs wonderfully with cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a gourmet snack.
2. Natural Remedies
You can take a teaspoon to ease a sore throat or reduce stress. Moreover, mixing it into herbal teas, such as chamomile or peppermint, provides added therapeutic benefits.
Additionally, it can be used as a cough suppressant by combining it with lemon juice and warm water.
3. Skincare Applications
As a face mask, you can combine it with aloe vera for hydration and a natural glow. Moreover, it can be used as a spot treatment, applied directly to acne or minor cuts for faster healing.
For gentle exfoliation, you can mix it with sugar or oats for a nourishing scrub.
4. Aromatherapy and Relaxation
You can add a teaspoon to warm water or tea before bed for a calming effect. In addition, you can use it in recipes for baked goods or desserts to infuse them with a relaxing floral aroma.
How to Make Lavender Honey
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw, light-colored honey.
- ¼ cup dried lavender blossoms (Lavandula angustifolia).
Instructions
First, place the dried lavender blossoms in a clean jar. Then, pour honey over the blossoms, stirring well to ensure even distribution.
Next, cover the jar and place it in a warm, dark location, such as the top of a refrigerator. After this, infuse the honey for 1–4 weeks, turning the jar daily to redistribute the blossoms.
Once the infusion is complete, strain the honey through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean jar.
Finally, store the infused honey in a cool, dry place and enjoy! As a pro tip, the strained lavender blossoms can be added to tea or desserts for extra flavor.
Cautions and Precautions
If you are allergic to lavender, pollen, or honey, consult a healthcare provider before use.
Avoid giving honey, including lavender honey, to children under 1 year old due to the risk of botulism.
Always use raw honey and organic, food-grade lavender to ensure safety and maximize health benefits.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.
Always consult a healthcare provider for guidance specific to your health needs.
Lavender Honey Magic: 6 Powerful Benefits for Relaxation, Healing, and How to Make It at Home
