Paul Johnston is the founder and master herbalist of The Herb Prof, with decades of clinical experience in naturopathic medicine, herbal remedies, detoxification and holistic wellness. After overcoming his own serious health challenges, he now dedicates himself to helping others reclaim their health naturally.
Lavender water is one of the most versatile and underrated herbal preparations you can have in your home. Made by infusing or distilling lavender flowers in water, it combines the therapeutic properties of lavender with a gentle, skin-safe, and food-safe medium that essential oil cannot provide. This complete guide covers what lavender water is, how it differs from essential oil, how to make it at home, and every practical way to use it.
What Is Lavender Water?
Lavender water is an aqueous preparation made from English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) flowers and distilled water. It exists in two distinct forms that are often confused:
Lavender hydrosol is the purest form, a byproduct of steam distillation that contains the water-soluble aromatic compounds of lavender alongside trace amounts of essential oil. It has a soft, genuine lavender scent and is suitable for direct skin contact, ingestion in small amounts, and delicate culinary applications.
Lavender-infused water is a simpler homemade preparation made by steeping fresh or dried lavender flowers in distilled water. It is less concentrated than hydrosol but easy to make at home and suitable for most of the same uses.
Both are fundamentally different from lavender essential oil, which is highly concentrated, not water-soluble, and should never be applied directly to skin or consumed without significant dilution.
History and Cultural Significance
Lavender water has one of the longest histories of any herbal preparation. The name lavender derives from the Latin lavare, to wash, reflecting its central role in Roman bathing culture. Roman soldiers used it to clean wounds, and Roman bathers added it to communal baths for its antiseptic and aromatic properties.
In medieval Europe, lavender water was carried during outbreaks of plague, tied to the wrists or held to the nose to ward off infection. While the mechanism was not understood at the time, modern research confirms that lavender does have genuine antimicrobial activity against several common pathogens.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, lavender water became one of the most fashionable perfumes in Europe. Queen Elizabeth I of England was reported to consume lavender conserve daily for her migraines. Queen Victoria used it extensively, cementing its association with English elegance and refinement that persists today.
Lavender Water vs Lavender Essential Oil
Understanding the difference between these two products is essential before using either therapeutically.
| Criteria | Lavender Water | Lavender Essential Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration | Low – water-soluble compounds only | Very high – concentrated lipophilic compounds |
| Skin safety | Safe for direct application | Must be diluted in carrier oil first |
| Ingestion | Safe in culinary amounts | Not safe without professional guidance |
| Scent | Soft, gentle, authentic | Strong, intense |
| Best for | Skincare, linen spray, cooking, hair | Aromatherapy, massage (diluted), diffusing |
| Shelf life | 6 months to 1 year | 2–5 years |
Benefits of Lavender Water
Skin Care
Lavender water’s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties make it one of the most effective natural skincare ingredients available. It soothes redness and irritation, helps balance the skin’s natural oil production, and provides gentle antibacterial action that is particularly beneficial for acne-prone skin. Unlike many commercial toners, it contains no alcohol and will not strip or dry the skin.
Regular use as a facial mist or toner can reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, calm reactive skin, and improve overall complexion tone over time.
Stress and Anxiety Relief
The aromatic compounds in lavender water, particularly linalool, have a well-documented calming effect on the nervous system. Spraying lavender water on the face, neck, or pillow delivers these compounds via both skin absorption and inhalation, providing a gentle but meaningful anxiolytic effect. It is an ideal midday reset spray for stressful work environments.
Sleep Support
Used as a pillow spray or added to a warm bath before bed, lavender water is a well-established sleep aid. The calming compounds in lavender promote slow-wave sleep and reduce night waking. A light mist on the pillow 10–15 minutes before sleep creates a consistent sensory cue that reinforces healthy sleep patterns over time.
Hair Care
Lavender water improves scalp health by reducing inflammation, soothing irritation, and providing mild antimicrobial action against the fungi associated with dandruff. Used as a final hair rinse after shampooing, it adds a subtle shine, reduces static, and leaves hair smelling gently of lavender without the heaviness of oil-based products.
Antimicrobial and Household Uses
Lavender has demonstrated antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and several other common pathogens. Lavender water used as a surface spray or air freshener provides a genuinely antimicrobial effect alongside its pleasant fragrance, making it a functional as well as aromatic household product.
Culinary Uses
Culinary-grade lavender water and hydrosol can be used in small amounts to flavour desserts, drinks, and baked goods. Its gentler flavour compared to essential oil makes it far easier to use in cooking without the risk of over-flavouring.
How to Make It at Home
Method 1 – Simple Infusion (Easiest)
This is the quickest and most accessible method. The result is a gentle lavender-infused water suitable for skincare, linen sprays, and household use.
You will need:
- 2–3 tablespoons dried English lavender buds (or 4–5 tablespoons fresh)
- 500ml distilled water
- A clean glass jar with a lid
- A fine mesh strainer or muslin cloth
- A clean spray bottle or glass bottle for storage
Steps:
Step 1: Place the lavender buds in a clean glass jar. Use dried or fresh English lavender buds for the best fragrance and therapeutic potency.
Step 2: Bring the distilled water to just below boiling (90–95°C) and pour over the lavender buds. Avoid fully boiling water as this can destroy some of the delicate aromatic compounds.
Step 3: Seal the jar and leave to steep for 2–4 hours at room temperature. For a stronger, more concentrated infusion, leave it overnight in the refrigerator instead.
Step 4: Strain through a fine mesh strainer or muslin cloth. Press the buds gently against the strainer to extract every last drop of infused liquid.
Step 5: Pour into a clean spray bottle or glass bottle. Label with the date and store in the refrigerator.
Shelf life: 2–4 weeks refrigerated. Add 1 teaspoon of vegetable glycerin to extend shelf life and add a skin-softening effect.
Method 2 – Stovetop Distillation (More Concentrated)
This method produces a result closer to a true hydrosol and is significantly more concentrated than a simple infusion.
You will need:
- A large stainless steel pot with a domed lid
- A heatproof bowl that fits inside the pot
- Ice cubes
- Fresh or dried lavender buds
- Distilled water
Steps:
Step 1: Place a small heatproof trivet or rack inside the pot. Add enough lavender buds to cover the base of the pot generously, then pour in enough distilled water to just cover the lavender.
Step 2: Place the heatproof bowl on the trivet, this will collect the condensed lavender water.
Step 3: Place the pot lid upside down on the pot so the dome faces downward into the pot. Fill the inverted lid with ice cubes.
Step 4: Heat the pot on a low to medium heat. As the water steams, it will carry lavender compounds upward, condense on the cold lid, and drip down into the collection bowl.
Step 5: After 20–30 minutes, carefully remove the collection bowl. Allow to cool completely before transferring to a clean glass bottle.
Shelf life: 3–6 months in a cool dark place, up to 1 year refrigerated.
How to Use Lavender Water
As a Facial Toner
Apply to a clean cotton pad and sweep gently over the face after cleansing, morning and evening. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Follow with your usual moisturiser.
As a Facial Mist
Pour into a fine mist spray bottle and mist directly onto the face throughout the day for hydration, stress relief, and a quick sensory reset. Particularly effective during hot weather or in air-conditioned environments.
As a Pillow and Linen Spray
Mist lightly onto pillows, bed linen, and curtains 10–15 minutes before bed. The gentle lavender scent creates a calming sleep environment without being overpowering.
As a Hair Rinse
Mix lavender water with an equal amount of plain water and pour over hair as a final rinse after shampooing. Leave in, do not rinse out. Particularly beneficial for itchy or irritated scalps.
As a Room and Surface Spray
Use in a spray bottle as a natural air freshener, fabric spray, or light surface spray. Effective on yoga mats, in cars, and on soft furnishings.
In Cooking and Drinks
Use culinary-grade lavender water to flavour shortbread, panna cotta, icing, lavender lemonade, cocktails, and sparkling water. Start with 1–2 teaspoons per recipe and adjust to taste. Always ensure the one you use for cooking is food-grade and free from preservatives.
In the Bath
Add 100–200ml of lavender water to a warm bath for a relaxing, skin-soothing soak. Combine with a tablespoon of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil to help the lavender compounds absorb into the skin.
Buying Lavender Water
When buying commercial lavender water or hydrosol, look for:
- 100% pure lavender hydrosol with no added fragrance, alcohol, or preservatives
- Organic English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) as the source
- Glass bottle packaging – lavender compounds can degrade in plastic over time
- A clearly stated distillation or bottling date
- Reputable herbal suppliers, aromatherapy specialists, or health food retailers
Avoid products labelled simply as “lavender water” that list fragrance or parfum as an ingredient. These are synthetic scent products and have none of the therapeutic properties of true lavender hydrosol.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat
- Glass bottles are strongly preferred over plastic
- Homemade infusion: 2–4 weeks refrigerated
- Stovetop distillation method: 3–6 months in a cool dark place, up to 1 year refrigerated
- Commercial hydrosol: follow manufacturer guidance, typically 1–2 years unopened
- Always check before use – if the scent has significantly faded or the liquid appears cloudy or discoloured, discard and replace
Safety and Precautions
Lavender water is one of the safest herbal preparations available, but the following precautions apply:
- Patch test first: apply a small amount to the inside of the wrist and wait 24 hours before using on the face or body. Discontinue immediately if any redness, itching, or irritation occurs
- Allergies: people with allergies to plants in the Lamiaceae family (mint, sage, rosemary, thyme) may also react to lavender
- Pregnancy: used topically in normal amounts is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Avoid consuming large amounts internally. Consult your midwife or doctor if in doubt
- Children: it is generally safe for use on children over two years old. Use diluted and avoid contact with eyes
- Do not confuse with essential oil: lavender essential oil is not interchangeable with lavender water and should never be applied undiluted to skin or consumed
- Culinary use: only use food-grade or culinary-grade in cooking. Do not use products containing preservatives, alcohol, or synthetic fragrance
Before You Go – Lavender Water
Lavender water is a genuinely useful herbal preparation that deserves a permanent place in your home. Whether you use it on your skin, in your bedroom, in your kitchen, or simply as a daily moment of calm in a spray bottle, it delivers the therapeutic benefits of lavender in the most accessible and gentle form possible.
If you would like to make your own lavender water from scratch, our complete guide to How to Grow Lavender: Varieties, Care, Harvest and Uses covers everything you need to grow and harvest your own flowers at home. And if you enjoy using lavender in your wellness routine, our Lavender Tea Recipe: Benefits, Blends and How to Make It is the perfect companion guide.
References – Lavender Water
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
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Frequently Asked Questions – Lavender Water
What is the difference between lavender water and lavender essential oil?
Lavender water is a gentle, water-based preparation safe for direct skin contact and culinary use. Lavender essential oil is highly concentrated, must be diluted before skin contact, and should not be consumed without professional guidance. They are not interchangeable.
How do I make lavender water at home?
The simplest method is to steep 2–3 tablespoons of dried English lavender buds in 500ml of hot distilled water for 2–4 hours, then strain and store in a glass bottle in the refrigerator. It keeps for 2–4 weeks.
Can I use lavender water on my face every day?
Yes, it is gentle enough for daily use as a facial toner or mist. It is suitable for all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Always patch test first.
How long does homemade lavender water last?
A simple infusion lasts 2–4 weeks refrigerated. A stovetop distillation method produces a more concentrated result that lasts 3–6 months in a cool dark place.
Can lavender water be used in cooking?
Yes, culinary-grade can be used to flavour desserts, drinks, and baked goods. Use 1–2 teaspoons per recipe and adjust to taste. Ensure the product is food-grade and free from preservatives or synthetic fragrance.
Is lavender water safe during pregnancy?
Used topically in normal amounts is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Avoid consuming large amounts internally and consult your midwife or doctor if in doubt.
Can lavender water help with acne?
Yes, lavender water’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for acne-prone skin. Use as a daily toner after cleansing. It will not treat severe or cystic acne, consult a dermatologist for persistent acne.
Where can I buy good quality lavender water?
Look for 100% pure lavender hydrosol from organic English lavender in glass bottle packaging from reputable herbal suppliers, aromatherapy specialists, or health food retailers. Avoid products containing synthetic fragrance or added preservatives.