There's a reason humans have been reaching for lavender for centuries — and it has nothing to do with necessity. In "How to Use Lavender: 5 Refreshing Tips for Mocktails & Elixirs," discover why this ancient, regal herb has the quiet power to turn an ordinary glass of lemonade or morning coffee into a moment that feels intentional, memorable, and just a little bit magical. Complete with five easy lavender-infused mocktail and tea recipes (plus the one warning you need before you overdo it), this article is your invitation to slow down and elevate the everyday — one fragrant sip at a time.
English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) reminds me that humans have always sought beauty in everyday life. The Romans valued lavender for its fragrance. European gardeners filled their plots with it. Herbalists added it to household preparations, teas, and aromatic waters.
Lavender is not necessary and no one ever really needs lavender in a drink. I mean, most of us think of lavender for soaps and hand creams or pillow sachets. And yet people have been adding it to food and beverages for centuries. Just the other day I enjoyed a lavender infused coffee latte (yum!). Now that I think of it, one of my favorite chocolate truffles has lavender in it.
Why do we add lavender?
I have honestly wondered about this. And I think I have an answer. There is something about lavender that transforms an ordinary experience into something memorable. Lavender has the regal qualities of elevation. For example, a handful of lavender blossoms turns a simple glass of lemonade into something that feels intentional. Those drops of lavender simple syrup in my latte completely change the experience. That impulse — to elevate the ordinary — is not new. It is very human.
When it comes to the Lamiaceae family, lavender is worth trying this summer. I put together a few ways to get you started below.
Five Ways to Use Lavender in Mocktails and Refreshing Herbal Teas
Create a Lavender Simple Syrup: One of the easiest ways to incorporate lavender into mocktails is through a simple syrup. Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer, stir until the sugar dissolves, remove from heat, and steep for 20–30 minutes. Strain and refrigerate. Add a tablespoon or two to lemonade, sparkling water, or berry mocktails for a subtle floral sweetness. Or, add some to your coffee in the morning.
Blend Lavender with Lemon Balm: Lavender and lemon balm are a classic summer pairing. Lemon balm provides bright citrus notes while lavender adds floral depth. Steep 2 tablespoons of lemon balm and 1 teaspoon lavender in 4 cups of hot water for 15–20 minutes. Chill and serve over ice.
Combine Lavender with Chamomile and Rose: For a calming evening tea, blend lavender, chamomile, and rose petals. The combination creates a fragrant, garden-inspired infusion that is equally enjoyable served warm or iced on a summer evening.
Pair Lavender with Blueberries and Sparkling Water: Brew a strong lavender tea, chill it, and combine it with muddled blueberries and sparkling water. The berries soften lavender's floral character while adding natural sweetness and color.
Mix Lavender with Mint and Citrus: Lavender works surprisingly well with cooling herbs such as peppermint or spearmint. Try combining a light lavender infusion with mint tea, fresh lemon juice, and sparkling water for a refreshing summer mocktail that highlights both herbs without allowing either one to overpower the drink.
Warning: start off small and light with lavender. Too much lavender and it might taste like you are drinking soap!