{
  "version": "1.0",
  "type": "ingredient-guide",
  "slug": "lavender",
  "canonical_url": "https://leafandlarder.com/lavender.html",
  "name": "Lavender",
  "category": "botanical infusion",
  "botanical_name": "Lavandula angustifolia",
  "plant_part": "flower buds",
  "forms": [
    "whole buds",
    "cut buds",
    "blends"
  ],
  "flavor_profile": [
    "floral",
    "resinous",
    "sweet",
    "piney"
  ],
  "last_reviewed": "2026-08-15",
  "sources": [
    {
      "title": "Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Lavandula angustifolia",
      "url": "https://powo.science.kew.org/results?q=Lavandula%20angustifolia"
    },
    {
      "title": "FAO/WHO Codex herbal tea commodity groupings",
      "url": "https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/sh-proxy/zh/?lnk=1&url=https%253A%252F%252Fworkspace.fao.org%252Fsites%252Fcodex%252FMeetings%252FCX-718-52%252FWDs%252Fpr52_08e.pdf"
    }
  ],
  "decision_notes": {
    "buying": "Use sparingly: lavender can dominate a blend quickly. Culinary use calls for a food-intended ingredient, not decorative potpourri.",
    "preparation": "Steep a small amount in covered hot water or infuse into sugar, cream, or syrup, then strain."
  },
  "uses": [
    "culinary use",
    "beverage or infusion use"
  ],
  "storage": "Keep dried lavender tightly sealed, cool, dark, and dry.",
  "faqs": [
    {
      "question": "What should I check before buying Lavender?",
      "answer": "Check the stated botanical identity or style, the form, and the ingredient list."
    },
    {
      "question": "Is this guide a product offer?",
      "answer": "No. It is culinary editorial information; product availability is separate."
    }
  ],
  "commerce": {
    "status": "not_for_sale",
    "disclosure": "Editorial information, not a product offer or health advice."
  }
}