Dried lavender is plant material harvested and cured for long-term preservation. The drying process removes most cellular moisture, shifting the plant from a metabolically active state to an inert one. Dried lavender does not need water; adding moisture will not revitalize it and will instead cause damage. Its purpose is solely to enjoy its concentrated fragrance and visual appeal.
Why Dried Material Does Not Require Water
Curing lavender is designed to stop the biological processes that require water. When lavender is dried, the water content is significantly reduced, halting all plant metabolic activity, including photosynthesis and respiration. The cellular machinery is no longer functional and cannot use water for growth or maintenance. The remaining value is the concentrated essential oils, which are volatile organic compounds stored in the trichomes of the flower buds. As water evaporates during drying, these fragrant oils, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, become highly concentrated within the plant matrix.
The Dangers of Introducing Moisture
Wetting dried lavender introduces a risk of fungal proliferation, which is the primary danger to preserved botanicals. Mold and mildew spores are ubiquitous and germinate when sufficient surface moisture is available on organic matter. The dried flower buds become a perfect substrate for these organisms, leading to visible growth and a distinct musty odor. Introducing water can also accelerate the degradation of the essential oils that hold the scent. Moisture promotes oxidation, causing the volatile aromatic compounds to break down more quickly and diminishing the lavender’s signature aroma.
Maximizing the Longevity of Dried Lavender
To preserve the color and potent aroma, dried lavender requires careful storage in a consistently dry environment. The material should be kept in a cool, dark location away from sources of high humidity, preventing the reabsorption of moisture from the air. Exposure to direct sunlight is detrimental because ultraviolet light and heat rapidly break down the pigments and cause the essential oils to evaporate. If the scent diminishes, the fragrance can often be released by gently crushing or rubbing the flower buds between the fingers. This action fractures the tiny oil-bearing trichomes, releasing a fresh burst of concentrated aromatic compounds. For lasting rejuvenation, a few drops of pure lavender essential oil can be added to the dried buds.