Discover a world of vibrant flavors and aromatic delights with spices that start with the letter L. From the warm, earthy notes of Louisiana Bay leaves to the zing of Lavender, these spices add unique character to any dish. Join us as we explore thFe fascinating and flavorful spices beginning with L that can elevate your culinary creations to the next level.
1. Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant herb with beautiful purple flowers originating from the Mediterranean region. It has a sweet, floral aroma and a slightly herbaceous taste. Lavender is often used in cooking, desserts, and teas, as well as in aromatherapy for relaxation.
Calories per 20g: about 6 calories. Rich in antioxidants and essential oils like linalool and linalyl acetate, which promote relaxation and have antimicrobial properties.
How to Use It:
- Flavor baked goods like cookies and cakes
- Add to herbal teas and infusions
- Use in salads or as a garnish
Diet Compatibility: Low-calorie, contains antioxidants, and may help reduce stress. Pairs well with honey, lemon, or vanilla.es, good for digestion, and anti-inflammatory. Pair with lemon juice or olive oil.
2. Lemon Basil
Lemon basil is a fragrant herb with bright citrus aroma, a hybrid between basil and lemon, native to Southeast Asia. It offers a fresh, lemony flavor perfect for summer dishes.
Calories per 20g: about 4 calories. Contains essential oils and antioxidants that support health and digestion.
How to Use It:
- In salads and salsas
- Flavoring pasta and rice dishes
- In herbal teas
Diet Compatibility: Low-calorie, rich in antioxidants, and supports digestion. Pairs nicely with lemon and olive oil.
3. Lemon Drop Pepper
Lemon Drop Pepper is a hot chili with a citrus undertone, originating from Central and South America. It has a fiery, tangy flavor that adds heat and brightness to dishes.
Calories per 20g: about 12 calories. Contains capsaicin, antioxidants, and volatile oils that boost metabolism and reduce inflammation.
How to Use It:
- In spicy salsas and sauces
- As a seasoning in marinades
- To add heat in pickling
Diet Compatibility: Low-calorie, metabolism booster, and anti-inflammatory. Pairs well with citrus zest and garlic.
4. Lemon Ironbark (Eucalyptus Staigeriana)
Lemon Ironbark is a type of eucalyptus with lemon-scented leaves, native to Australia. Its aroma is refreshing and citrusy, used for medicinal and aromatic purposes.
Calories per 20g: negligible. Contains essential oils like eucalyptol, known for antimicrobial and respiratory benefits.
How to Use It:
- In aromatherapy and diffusers
- As an infusion for soothing teas
- In massage oils
Diet Compatibility: Not typically edible, used for inhalation or topical applications. Pairs well with peppermint or lemon essential oils.
5. Lemon Myrtle
Lemon Myrtle is an Australian native herb with an intense lemon flavor and aroma. It is used in cooking, baking, and beverages for its vibrant citrus scent.
Calories per 20g: about 4 calories. Rich in antioxidants and essential oils like citral, known for antimicrobial properties.
How to Use It:
- Sprinkled over seafood and salads
- In baked desserts and biscuits
- In teas and beverages
Diet Compatibility: Low-calorie, antioxidant-rich, and anti-inflammatory. Pairs with honey and lemon.
6. Lemon Pepper
Lemon Pepper is a seasoning blend of dried lemon zest and cracked black pepper, widely used in Western cuisine. It provides a zesty, spicy flavor.
Calories per 20g: about 20 calories. Contains vitamin C from lemon zest and antioxidants from black pepper.
How to Use It:
- On grilled meats and vegetables
- In marinades
- Sprinkled over popcorn or roasted potatoes
Diet Compatibility: Low-calorie, enhances digestion, and adds flavor without excess fat. Pairs with lemon juice or garlic.
7. Lemon Thyme
Lemon thyme is a herb with small leaves that emit a fresh lemon scent, native to the Mediterranean. It’s used to enhance savory dishes with a citrusy note.
Calories per 20g: about 1 calorie. Rich in antioxidants and essential oils like thymol.
How to Use It:
- In roasted meats and vegetables
- In soups and stews
- Added to herb butters and marinades
Diet Compatibility: Very low-calorie, aids digestion, and anti-inflammatory. Pairs well with lemon and garlic.
8. Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)
Lemon Verbena is a fragrant herb with strong lemon aroma, originally from South America. It is popular in teas, desserts, and fruit salads.
Calories per 20g: about 2 calories. Contains antioxidants and essential oils that promote relaxation and digestion.
How to Use It:
- Steeped as herbal tea
- In jellies and sorbets
- Infused in syrups for cocktails
Diet Compatibility: Low in calories, calming, and digestive aid. Pairs with honey and lemon slices.
9. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a tall, stalky herb with a citrus flavor, common in Asian cuisine. It adds a fresh, lemony aroma to dishes and teas.
Calories per 20g: about 5 calories. Contains antioxidants and essential oils like citral that support immunity and digestion.
How to Use It:
- In soups like Thai Tom Yum
- In marinades and stir-fries
- As a tea or infusion
Diet Compatibility: Low-calorie, promotes digestion, and has anti-inflammatory effects. Pairs with garlic and chili.
10. Lentisk (Pistacia Lentiscus)
Lentisk is a Mediterranean shrub known for its resin called mastic, used in chewing gums and liqueurs. Its flavor is pine-like and resinous.
Calories per 20g: variable, mainly from resin; not typically eaten directly.
How to Use It:
- Chewing gum
- Flavoring liqueurs and desserts
Diet Compatibility: Usually used in small quantities, primarily for flavoring. Not a significant source of calorieshoney.xcessively. Pairs with chamomile or ginger.
Eleena Wills is a passionate health and wellness writer with over 5 years of experience in simplifying complex health topics for everyday readers. She holds a background in health communication and has contributed to multiple reputable wellness platforms. Eleena is committed to sharing science-backed tips on nutrition, mental well-being, fitness, and lifestyle habits that support long-term health. When she’s not writing, she’s experimenting with healthy recipes or practicing yoga.