What is "lavender"?

Lavender is a fragrant herb with narrow, silvery-green leaves and clusters of small purple flowers. It is prized for its sweet and floral aroma, which has hints of citrus and mint. Lavender is widely used in cooking, particularly in French and Mediterranean cuisines, where it adds a subtle floral flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. It can be used fresh or dried, and is often incorporated into baked goods such as cookies, cakes, and scones, as well as in sauces, marinades, and herbal teas. Lavender is also popular in aromatherapy and herbal medicine, where it is believed to have calming and relaxing properties that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.