Lavender Syrup
Lavender's delicate blossoms grace us with their presence from the latter half of June through the closing days of July. Beyond its renowned allure—a fragrance cherished by many for its moth-repelling prowess—lavender holds versatile possibilities. You see, this charming bloom isn't just a pretty face. It can be transformed into an array of treasures, from homemade cosmetics to soothing blends and the captivating lavender syrup.
This lavender flower syrup—enriched by the inherent qualities of the blossoms themselves, including essential oils and an array of active compounds like tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, phytosterols, mineral salts, and organic acids—offers a multifaceted array of applications. A gentle sip during moments of stress or heightened tension, even those pre-menstrual, unfurls a calming embrace. It eases the burden of headaches and certain migraines, extends its touch to release muscular tension, and even lends respite from bloating and colic. In the realm of well-being, it dances as a catalyst for weight loss, stirring the secretion of gastric juices. Its diuretic essence whispers softly, a bactericidal aura follows its trail, and sleep finds solace in its presence. A symphony of benefits, indeed.
Now, how might one orchestrate the magic of lavender syrup? Picture it as the canvas of a summer day—transforming into a refreshing lemonade masterpiece. Combine with effervescent mineral water, a hint of lemon juice, and the whisper of basil leaves. You can also beckon lavender syrup to the realms of tea, or for those daring, as a whimsical accomplice to coffee. Drizzle it over a mound of ice cream—a symphony of flavor that might resonate deeply with some.
Shall we unfurl the secret of crafting this elixir? Here's a simple overture for your senses:
Ingredients:
- A liter of water
- A cup of lavender flowers, sans stems
- 1 cup of sugar (opt for the warm embrace of brown sugar)
- A squeeze of lemon juice
- 5 tablespoons of honey
Gently summon a liter of water to a crescendo of boiling, and introduce the sugar. As it harmoniously dissolves, add lavender flowers, letting their essence infuse the concoction. A dash of honey—a kiss of sweetness—is your next move. Allow the symphony to simmer under the veil of a lid for about 10 minutes. As the finale nears, sprinkle in the lemon juice and let it linger in the heat for an additional 2-3 minutes. The final movement? Strain this magical potion through a fine mesh sieve or a gauzy veil, serenading it into awaiting jars.
Or perhaps, an encore in the form of another recipe:
- A liter of water
- A cup of lavender flowers, sans stems
- 1 kg of sugar
- The symphony of three lemons, squeezed into juice
The symphony continues. Dissolve sugar within a bubbling cauldron of water, stirring occasionally to prevent a caramelic crescendo. Once this sweet transformation sweeps through, usher in the lemon juice and the tender lavender blooms. Let it dance over low heat for an additional quarter-hour, then let it cool, releasing the soothing strains of its aroma. Strain through the finest mesh sieve or the gentle embrace of cheesecloth before serenading it into sterilized bottles or jars. Should you choose, let it revel in a brief encore—a gentle simmer—before its final performance.
As the curtain falls, may you savor the symphony of your creation, a lavender-laden ode to the senses.
