Herbal Tea Series: Lavender Tea Benefits: Fragrant & Soothes the Senses

I always associate lavender with calm. But it wasn’t until I started making tea with it that I realised how powerful it can be in a simple cup.

Lavender tea is floral, slightly sweet, and surprisingly versatile. It’s more than just a bedtime drink—it can help settle the nerves, ease digestion, and turn an ordinary moment into a little pocket of peace.

What Is Lavender Tea?

Lavender tea steeps the dried buds of the Lavandula angustifolia plant in hot water. The result is a gentle, floral infusion with a naturally calming aroma.

Herbal Tea Series: Lavender Tea Benefits: Fragrant & Soothes the Senses

Traditionally used in aromatherapy and herbal medicine, lavender has long been celebrated for its relaxing effects. As a lavender tea, it’s a beautifully simple way to enjoy its benefits throughout the day.

Lavender Tea Benefits

Whether you sip it for wellness or to enjoy the scent, here’s what makes lavender tea worth trying:

• Promotes Relaxation & Reduces Stress

  • Lavender’s essential oils are known to help calm the nervous system. As a tea, it offers similar benefits, without needing a diffuser.

• Supports Sleep

  • A warm cup before bed can help signal the body to wind down. It is especially nice combined with chamomile or lemon balm.

• Eases Headaches & Tension

  • Lavender’s anti-inflammatory and soothing effects may help with mild tension headaches, especially when stress-related.

• Soothes Digestion

  • Lavender tea may reduce bloating and cramping by calming the digestive tract, and it is beneficial after a heavy meal.

• Supports Mood Balance

  • Some studies suggest lavender can gently lift mood or ease mild anxiety symptoms when used regularly.

How to Make Lavender Tea

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp dried lavender buds (culinary grade only)

• 250 ml just-boiled water

• Optional: chamomile, lemon balm, or a splash of oat milk

Method:

1. Place lavender buds in a tea strainer or loose in a teapot.

2. Pour over freshly boiled water.

3. Cover and steep for 5–7 minutes.

4. Strain and sip slowly.

Tip: Go easy—too much lavender can make the tea taste soapy. Start small and adjust to your liking.

Safety Notes

• Always use culinary-grade lavender, not decorative or craft-grade.

• Not recommended in large amounts during pregnancy.

• It may interact with some sedative medications. Check with a practitioner if you are unsure.

• If you’re prone to allergies (especially to mint family plants), patch test or start with a small amount.

A Favourite Way to Use It

I love brewing lavender tea on grey, anxious days. It’s also a beautiful tea to drink during a warm evening bath—either sipped or added directly to the water as an infusion.

Bonus Tips: More Ways to Use Lavender Tea

• Facial Steam: Pour the hot tea into a bowl, lean over it with a towel over your head, and breathe deeply. This is great for the skin and sinuses.

• Linen Spray: Let the tea cool, pour into a spray bottle, and mist onto pillows or sheets.

• Calming Foot Soak: Add cooled lavender tea to warm water in a basin, and soak tired feet.

• Herbal Ice Cubes: Freeze lavender tea in ice cube trays and add to sparkling water for a subtle floral lift.

Try It Yourself

👉 Browse Herbal Ingredients, their benefits and uses

Missed the rest of the series? Catch up here:

• 🌿 Rosemary Tea Benefits: A Stimulating Brew for Mind & Body

• 🌼 Chamomile Tea Benefits: A Gentle Brew for Calm and Sleep

Next up: Peppermint Tea—cool, clear, and refreshing.

Lavender Tea FAQs

1. Can you use fresh lavender to make tea? Yes, you can use fresh lavender—just make sure it’s culinary-grade and hasn’t been treated with pesticides. Use a small sprig (about 1–2 tsp of buds) per cup, and rinse it gently before steeping. The flavour may be slightly milder than dried lavender.

2. What type of lavender is best for tea? The best variety is Lavandula angustifolia (also known as English lavender). It has a sweet, mild flavour that’s ideal for infusions. Avoid strong-scented decorative varieties like Lavandin, which can be too bitter or camphorous for tea.

3. How often can I drink lavender tea? Most people can safely enjoy 1–2 cups a day. Like all herbal teas, moderation is key—especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication. If in doubt, speak to a healthcare practitioner.

4. What does lavender tea taste like? It’s floral, slightly sweet, and lightly herbal. Some people describe it as “soothingly perfumed”—but it can taste soapy or overpowering if brewed too strong. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

5. Can lavender tea help with sleep? Yes—lavender has mild sedative properties and may help reduce stress and restlessness. It’s often used in evening teas or bedtime blends to promote a more relaxed state and support better sleep quality.