The benefits and uses of Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)

Lilac

Lilac is not just a beautiful flower with intense scent, it also can be used medicinally. It's wonderful aid to strengthen the immune system after the winter and is just about to start blooming in the end of April. And so delicious as a honey or syrup.

Properties :

Beneficial for sore mouth, parasitic worms, malaria, fevers, rashes, sunburns and minor cuts, scrapes, cataracts and diphtheria. Boosts the immune system, especially if being ill for longer time. Tea and tincture are good for medicinal purposes. Only to be done in vegetable glycerin, not in alcohol if you plan to make a tincture!

Lilac Honey Recipe

You'll need:

Jar

Local, pure honey

Freshly picked lilac flowers

1. Fill the jar with freshly picked flowers with a little room at the top.

2. Pour over honey to the top and cap.

3. Allow the honey to infuse for at least 6 weeks. No need to strain it afterward – eat the flowers along with the honey! Great for adding to recipes, spreading on bread, or adding to teas.

Lilac Syrup Recipe

Pour over pancakes, add as a liquor base, or a nonalcoholic lemonade base.

1 cup water

1 cup sugar

1 cup lilac flowers, stems and green parts removed

5-8 blueberries, for color

1. combine the water and sugar over medium heat on the stove. Heat until dissolved. Add the lilac flowers and simmer for 10 minutes.

2. For extra colour, add blueberries

3. Remove from heat, drain through a sieve, bottle, and store in the refrigerator.