Lavender linen water

Lavender water is traditionally used to scent clothing and linen. It imparts a beautiful scent, and can be used on pillow cases to induce sleep. If lavender is not your favourite scent, use rose petals instead. Replace the lavender essential oil with rose geranium; rose absolute is expensive and its amber colour may stain.

Ingredients • 2 cups fresh or dried lavender flowers • 600ml distilled water • 60ml vodka • 6 drops lavender essential oil

Place the lavender flowers in a large glass jar. Bring the water to the boil, then pour over the flowers. Leave to cool. Add the vodka and essential oil, mix, then secure the lid and leave for 2 weeks, shaking gently daily. Strain and pour into a spray bottle.