What Does Lavender Tea Taste Like?
Lavender tea has a certain mystique. Even before your first sip, it greets you with a scent that’s floral, heady, and unmistakably calming. It’s the tea version of a deep exhale - ideal for winding down, finding calm, or simply adding a moment of ritual to your day.
But what does lavender tea actually taste like?
If you’ve never tried it, or if you’re not quite sure how to describe the flavour in your cup, this guide will walk you through its taste profile, how it compares to other herbal teas, and how to enjoy it at its best.
A Floral First Impression
The moment you steep dried lavender in hot water, your space fills with that soft, sweet perfume we associate with spa days, gardens, and deep breaths. It’s no surprise that the flavour of lavender tea echoes its scent - but with some subtle differences.
So, what does lavender tea taste like?
Lavender tea has a distinct floral flavour, slightly sweet, a touch earthy, and with a lightly bitter or astringent finish. It’s aromatic, soothing, and lingers on the tongue with a fragrant complexity.
Some describe it as having hints of rosemary or mint, thanks to natural compounds like linalool and cineole, which give lavender its signature aroma and taste. If steeped too long, it can become quite strong or even soapy, so balance is key.
Comparing Lavender to Other Herbal Teas
Here’s how lavender tea stacks up against some other popular herbal infusions:
- Chamomile Tea is mellow, apple-like, and gently sweet - softer and more universally appealing.
- Peppermint Tea is bold and cooling with menthol freshness - very different from lavender’s floral notes.
- Lemon Balm Tea is lemony and grassy with a slight tartness - brighter and more citrus-forward.
- Passionflower Tea is mild, earthy, and slightly grassy with a calming finish.
- Lavender Tea is fragrant, floral, and slightly bitter - elegant and aromatic.
What Affects the Taste of Lavender Tea?
1. The Type of Lavender
There are many varieties of lavender, but for tea, you want culinary-grade lavender, typically Lavandula angustifolia (also known as English lavender). It has a soft, sweet taste compared to other varieties like Lavandula x intermedia, which can taste harsher or more camphorous.
2. Steeping Time and Water Temperature
Too hot or too long, and lavender can become bitter or overly perfumed. Use just-boiled water that’s cooled slightly, and steep for around 4-5 minutes. Cover your mug to trap the steam and let the aroma mingle with your senses.
3. Blending and Additions
Lavender on its own is lovely, but can be strong. Many people blend it with other herbs or sweeten it slightly to round out the flavour.
How to Make Lavender Tea Taste Even Better
If you find lavender tea a bit too floral on its own, you’re not alone. Here are a few gentle ways to soften or enhance the flavour:
Add Honey or Maple Syrup
Just a touch of sweetness balances lavender’s bitterness and makes the tea feel soothing and luxurious.
Pair It With Lemon
Lavender and lemon are a beautiful pairing. The citrus brightens the floral notes and adds freshness.
Blend It With Other Herbs
Lavender loves company. Try blending it with:
- Chamomile for ultimate calm
- Lemon balm for a citrus-floral combo
- Rose petals for a romantic twist
- Peppermint for a balancing coolness
Try It Iced
Brew it hot, then chill and pour over ice with a slice of lemon or cucumber. It becomes refreshing, aromatic, and perfect for summer afternoons.
When to Drink Lavender Tea
Lavender tea is best enjoyed when you’re looking to unwind. It’s perfect:
- As part of your bedtime routine
- During a stressful workday to bring some calm
- After dinner, to aid digestion and relaxation
- On a self-care Sunday while journaling, reading, or resting
Its calming properties make it ideal for evening rituals, but its fragrant charm means you can enjoy it anytime you need a moment of serenity.
A Cup That Calms and Charms
With its aromatic, floral taste and natural calming properties, lavender tea offers a moment of peace in every cup. While its bold botanical flavour may not be for everyone, those who love it find it deeply soothing and subtly powerful.
Ready to try it for yourself? Taste our lavender tea bags and invite more calm, clarity, and quiet joy into your day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can lavender tea taste soapy?
It can, especially if it’s over-steeped or made with the wrong type of lavender. Use culinary lavender and steep gently for a balanced flavour.
Does lavender tea taste like it smells?
In many ways, yes - it has a floral, sweet aroma that comes through in the taste. But it’s slightly more bitter and less sweet than the scent might suggest.
Is lavender tea bitter?
It can be, particularly if steeped for too long. To avoid bitterness, use a light hand and aim for a 4-5 minute steep.
What’s the best way to sweeten lavender tea?
Honey is a natural match. You could also try maple syrup or agave for a different twist. Sweeteners help mellow out the intensity of the floral notes.