Lavender essential oil is one of the most recognized essential oil in traditional aromatherapy. The virtues of lavender are the lovely fresh scent, calming and relaxation effects on the nervous system while working as antibacterial, antifungal, which soothes mind and body when used in the proper dilutions.
There are several varieties of lavenders and many subspecies in the Lavendula genus. I would like to focus on two specific lavenders.
The first is Spike lavender (Lavendula latifolia), from Spain which is steam distilled from the flowering tops of the plant. The aroma is a fresh camphoraceous floral aroma. This is attributed to its unique chemistry that it includes higher levels of 1,8 cineole (Eucalyptol) and camphor. These constituents are much more suitable for respiratory infection and pain, then skin conditions and nervous dispositions.
When using Spike Lavender it must be addressed with greater caution and in lower dilutions especially with children, pregnancies, and pets. Spike Lavender can be used to comfort the winter chills, respiratory and joint problems.
Another Lavender in the is Lavendula Angustifolia. This selection is sourced from a variety of lavender that grows at high altitudes, around 1000 metres in the foothills of the Alps in the Provance region of France. It is steam distilled from the flowering tops which yield an essential oil that has a range of 40-44% Linalyl Acetate content indicating a superior quality oil. Its overall ester content is 50-52% which gives the exceptional fine oil it's gentle, full-bodied aroma that is calming and soothing.
In summary, it is noticeable to see the difference between the two lavenders. The ranges of linalyl acetate, which is calming and soothing are at 40% in high altitude lavender. Whereas, in Spike lavender, the linalyl acetate ranges in an average of 3-4%. this is an extreme difference and should be selected with great care when using it for aromatherapy treatments.
Some cool research
Through the simple method of inhalation of lavender, it is found that there a calming and refreshing effect on the autonomic nervous system.[i]
Lavender Angustifolia also has demonstrated good antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity when exposed to infection.[ii]
Formulation Corner
Lavender Body Oil
- 50 mL of Jojoba
- 6 drops of Lavender High Altitude
- 4 drops of Mandarin
Blend in a beaker, pour into a 50mL amber bottle. Apply oil after shower or bathing.
Lavender Moisturizing Cream
- 25 mL of Absolute Aromas Face Cream
- 20 drops of Avocado Crude
- 3 drops of Lavender High Altitude
- 1 drop of Helichrysum
Add 25 mL of face cream to a sanitized glass jar. In beaker formulate Avocado Crude, lavender and helichrysum in a beaker, add face cream and stir with a clean stir stick.
Pain Relief Gel
- 40 mL of Aloe Vera Gel
- 20 drops of St.Johns Wort
- 5 drops of Spike Lavender
- 3 drops of Peppermint English
- 3 drops of Black Spruce
Add aloe gel into a 50 glass jar. Blend essential oils into the St. Johns wort, mix into the aloe gel and topically on joints.
References
- Giovannini, D., Gismondi, A., Basso, A., Canuti, L., Braglia, R., & Canini, A. et al. (2016). Lavandula angustifoliaMill. Essential Oil Exerts Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Effect in Macrophage-Mediated Immune Response to Staphylococcus aureus. Immunological Investigations, 45(1), 11-28. doi: 10.3109/08820139.2015.1085392
- Sayorwan W, e. (2018). The effects of lavender oil inhalation on emotional states, autonomic nervous system, and brain electrical activity. - PubMed - NCBI. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22612017/
- Lis-Balchin M. Aromatherapy Science. London: Pharmaceutical Press; 2006., pg 187
- Lavendula analysis - www.absolute-aromas.ca
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this educational service is not intended nor is it implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Healing Fragrances School of Aromatherapy does not accept responsibility for any problematic situations experienced by you or anyone to whom you give treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Nothing contained in the course is intended to provide a medical diagnosis or offer a treatment.