What is the average shelf life of lavender? How long does lavender last in the pantry, refrigerator, or freezer? What is the best way to store lavender to increase their shelf life? Find out the answers to these questions and more below:
Shelf Life of Lavender
| Pantry | Refrigerator | Freezer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground | 2-3 Years | - | - |
| Dried | 2-3 Years | - | - |
Lavender has a scent that can be described as a beautiful blend of floral, fresh, calm and clean. Its vibrant aroma is perfect for use in soaps, perfumes, beauty products, and fresheners. Lavender oil is a fantastic oil for cooking at the beginner’s stage. Lavender belongs to the ketone family. It has a shelf life of around 3-5 years. It is contraindicated for pregnant women and children. It is typically used for treating respiratory infections. Do not use lavender for long-term.
How to Store Lavender:
It is essential to store lavender away from light, heat, and oxygen. Store lavender in dark bottles made of glass, and keep them away from light and heat. Tightly close the lid of the container every time you use it. The light fades the color of the lavender blossoms, and warmth makes the plant dry and fades the fragrance of the flowers. Keep it away from humid areas, as moisture will damage lavender the most. The humidity will result in rotting and mold formation. You can also store culinary lavender in ziplocked bags away from heat and light.
What To Look For While Purchasing Lavender:
There are many different types of species of lavender available. You need to know which one you want to buy. Some different types of lavender include English Lavender and Lavandin
English Lavender is perfect for making essential oil. It has a sweet scent. Lavandin is another species that also produces essential oil, but with a more camphoraceous odor. It is used for scented cleaning products.
Buy essential oils that have a Latin name mentioned on their label. Find one that is made from Lavandula Angustifolia, as it has fantastic skin benefits when compared to others that are cheaper.
Look for lavender that is organically grown. Look for lavender essential oil, which is packed in a clear glass, dark glass, or plastic bottle.
How to Handle Lavender:
If you are growing lavender yourself, cut a bundle from the plant. Leave a few inches off the plant with the green growth on it. It is fine to use all of the lavender except for the green part; as you move down to the stem of the plant, it will become abundant. Wrap a bundle of blossoms with a rubber band, and hang them in a dark, dry room, which will help the lavender to retain the color and shape of its flowers.
The Purpose of Lavender in Cooking:
You can add lavender for crafting purposes. Lavender oil can also be used for cooking purposes. Lavender is used for infusion in juices or ground and used for baking. However, it has a highly intense flavor, so use it in small amounts. You can also use lavender for infusion in juices, including lemonade, sweetened iced tea, or meringue. Use around ½ teaspoon dried and 1 ½ teaspoon fresh lavender leaves.