The lavender harvest has begun!!!

Lavender, you are so beautiful. Fresh bouquets have started to arrive at Magasiait. Lavender is not just a plant of beauty. Information from www.alkeemia.ee Culinary use: When first using lavender as an unfamiliar flavoring, it should be added sparingly rather than generously. Lavender gives dishes a sweet, delicate citrus-like flavor. Dried lavender flower buds, as well as young leaves, are used as an herb. The flavor of lavender harmonizes best with oregano, marjoram, and thyme, but is also suitable with basil, sage, lemon balm, mint, and dill. Lavender can also replace the rosemary called for in the recipe. In France, lavender is part of the extremely popular Provence herb mixture. Americans mix lavender into green Chinese tea. In our food culture, lavender is best used in jams, drinks and baked goods, and for flavouring strong-flavoured game and lamb. Edible lavender flowers can be used on platters and to decorate side dishes, either fresh or candied. Lavender as a healer: The lavender plant, mainly the flowers, is rich in valuable essential oils. strong calming and relaxing effect, Lavender stimulates the blood supply to the skin, which is why compresses of lavender herb or diluted oil improve bruises and swelling. Unlike other essential oils, lavender oil can also be applied undiluted to small damaged skin areas. When inhaled, lavender essential oils have a calming effect and lift the mood, relieve headaches caused by mental tension and promote sleep. That is why pillows containing dried lavender are very popular. Lavender oil also works well in an aroma lamp, vaporizer and candle; if you are not hypersensitive, you can drip the oil directly onto your pillow. When consumed internally, lavender expels excess water, relieves intestinal cramps and reduces gas. A lavender water infusion soothes stomach pain caused by intestinal irritation and reduces intestinal gas. To make an infusion, pour 5 dl of boiling water over a tablespoon of dried flower buds, keep covered for 10-15 minutes and strain. The infusion is drunk in small portions over the course of a day. Other uses: At home, a thin cloth bag filled with dried lavender can be hung in a wardrobe. Lavender oil mixed with regular cooking oil is a fairly effective mosquito repellent when applied to the skin.