There’s something about May that calls for a slower pace. Longer days, flowers in bloom, and of course, Mother’s Day. It’s the perfect time to return an old favorite: afternoon tea.
Today, we’re pouring a cup, pulling up a chair, and talking about a tradition that’s been steeped (literally) in elegance for centuries and the unexpected starring role that lavender has played in tea history.
Spoiler alert: it’s a lot more royal than you might think.
Afternoon Tea: A Quick History
If you’ve ever felt the 3 PM crash and thought, "I could really use a snack and a cup of something hot," you would have fit right in with 19th-century British nobility.
Afternoon tea was popularized by Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, who famously started requesting tea and light snacks to bridge the long gap between lunch and dinner. Soon, it wasn’t just a personal habit — it was a full social event, with fancy sandwiches, sweet cakes, and elaborate table settings.
It didn’t take long for tea culture to bloom across England (and beyond). And alongside black teas and floral blends, there was a quiet but powerful favorite weaving its way through the tradition: lavender.
Lavender’s Long Royal History
Long before it showed up in teas, lavender had a seat at the royal table.
Queen Elizabeth I was famously obsessed with lavender. She kept it growing in the royal gardens, used it in her perfumes, and even insisted that lavender preserves (yes, like jam!) be available at her court. Herbalists of the time recommended lavender for everything from headaches to heartache — and you’d find lavender oils, sachets, and teas in many noble households.
Lavender wasn’t just pretty and fragrant, it was practical. It helped calm the mind, soothe the body, and add a touch of floral sweetness to whatever it touched. In an era when stress relief wasn’t exactly as simple as a bubble bath and a Netflix binge, lavender was a trusted ally.
Why Lavender Tea Is Still a Good Idea Today
We might not be living in castles, but some things haven’t changed. Life can still feel busy, overwhelming, and like you’re juggling seventeen things at once.
That’s where lavender tea comes in.
Here are just a few reasons we still reach for lavender when we need a moment of calm:
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Natural Relaxation: Lavender contains natural compounds that can help calm the nervous system, easing stress and anxiety.
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Better Sleep: Having a warm cup of lavender tea before bed can help you unwind and fall asleep more easily.
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Gentle Digestion Support: Lavender has been traditionally used to help with mild digestive issues, like bloating or indigestion.
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Mood Boost: Even just the smell of lavender can help improve mood and promote feelings of well-being.
And of course, a cup of lavender tea is a beautiful excuse to take a break — even if it’s just for a few minutes.
You don’t need a full silver tea set or a three-tiered tray to enjoy the art of afternoon tea (though if you have one, please invite us over).
You just need a little intention.
This May, whether you’re celebrating Mother’s Day, treating yourself, or gathering with friends, try brewing a cup of lavender tea. Light a candle. Plate a few cookies. Let yourself be still for a few minutes — the emails and laundry will wait. Because sometimes, the most royal thing you can do is slow down.
Cheers to tradition, to lavender, and to treating yourself like royalty, even on a regular Wednesday.
