Old lavender--still just as good to use?

[Bex]

I was trying to clean out some boxes from my storage unit today, and I came across a big bag of dried lavender buds I had bought about two years ago. The bag had been opened, but it still smelled pretty good, just not as strong. Is it still ok to use it in stuff--like soaps or bath oils, salts, or in rice packs? I mean, I know it doesn't "go bad", but does it loose some oomph?

[DoulaYvonne]

I would guess it would be fine to use, but you're right, it probably doesn't have as much oomph.

[AmandaB]

I think dried herbs only last up to a year in the freezer ... but don't quote me

[Bex]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Amandoula1980 I think dried herbs only last up to a year in the freezer ... but don't quote me

These have been in a storage unit for a year and a half

I'll think of some way to use them up.

[AmandaB]

You are a cheeky, cheeky monkey Becks!

[happy heartsong]

If it still has some smell it is ok to use, and you are right- not as strong as fresh. As you add it to whatever you are making really envision the lavender plant- see it, smell it, feel it- bring that experience and add it to your product. This invites the plant spirit in and that's the real medicine!

[birthsister]

put it in rice socks and eye pillows. i think in soaps, too, it would be fine, because you'd also be adding lavender EOs, too.

[SamiNoodle]

I'd add a drop of lavander oil to soaps, rice packs or eye-pillows just to give it a little more intensity.

[SuzanneTx]

I think I would be more afraid of some little critters. I just threw away a whole box of herbs, flowers because they were opened and old. They still smelled great but just to be safe.

Suizanne

[birthsister]

You can always put herbs in a ziplock back in the freezer. It will kill any critters that may have taken up residence.