This is regarded as a potent flower potion, because carnations were used to spice up wines and foods, and were also a symbol of passionate love to the Romans – as they are to modern Italians. They have a wonderful clove-like taste but you must use the real thing – called clove pink or clove carnation. Sipping this with someone you like quite well could move you to the relationship onto a higher plateau.

1 cinnamon stick
petals from about 6 clove carnations (about 3 1/2 ounces fresh flowers)
a pinch ground ginger
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 cups spring water
a few drops of glycerine
sparkling mineral water, to serve.

Put the first five (5) ingredients in a saucepan and bring very slowly to a boil, stirring continuously. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes; when the syrup begins to thicken, remove from the heat and cool. Add a few drops of glycerine and the mixture will become pinker.

Make up your potion by straining about 2 tablespoons of this liquid into a glass and topping off with sparkling mineral water. If you’re not being a teetotaler, it is also delicious added to champagne and will turn a gentle rose color.

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