Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula angustifolia)

Steam-distilled essential oil of Lavandula angustifolia, English Lavender. The most universally used and beginner-friendly aromatherapy oil, lavender pairs broadly with other oils, has well-documented gentle topical safety (one of the few oils that can be applied "neat" in small amounts by experienced users), and delivers the classic relaxing floral aroma.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Lavandula angustifolia

Plant part

Flowering tops

Extraction

Steam distillation

Primary aromatic compounds

Linalool (25-40%), linalyl acetate (25-45%), terpinen-4-ol

Aromatic character

Sweet, floral, herbaceous, slightly balsamic

Distinct from

Lavandin (Lavandula × intermedia), a hybrid with more camphor

What is Lavender Essential Oil?

English Lavender produces an essential oil dominated by linalool and linalyl acetate, two sweet floral compounds that give the oil its characteristic relaxing aroma. The species is widely cultivated across Provence (France), Bulgaria, England, and beyond. The closely related lavandin hybrid (Lavandula × intermedia) has higher camphor content and is more often used in cleaning products and lower-grade applications; true Lavandula angustifolia is the preferred aromatherapy and skin-application oil.

How to Use Lavender Essential Oil

Diffusion: 3-6 drops in a diffuser; one of the most universally pleasant oils for diffusion. Pillow: 1-2 drops on a tissue placed near the pillow for sleep support. Topical blending: dilute to 1-2% in a carrier oil for skin application (about 6-12 drops per fluid ounce of carrier). Bath: 5-8 drops mixed with a carrier (epsom salts, unscented bath oil) before adding to bathwater. Blend with: bergamot, chamomile, geranium, sweet orange, ylang-ylang, sandalwood.

Safety Information

Lavender is one of the gentlest essential oils, but standard essential oil precautions apply: dilute before broad topical use, patch test before broad use, do not consume internally without expert guidance, keep out of reach of children, and avoid in concentrated form near the eyes. Generally considered safe in moderate use during pregnancy after the first trimester.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does lavender oil smell like?
Sweet, floral, herbaceous with subtle balsamic notes; the classic relaxing aroma.

Is lavender oil safe for skin?
Generally yes when properly diluted (1-2% in carrier oil); patch test first.

How do I use lavender oil for sleep?
1-2 drops on a tissue near the pillow, or diffuse in the bedroom 30 minutes before bed.

What's the difference between English Lavender and Lavandin oil?
English Lavender (L. angustifolia) is the high-quality therapeutic species; Lavandin is a hybrid with more camphor - used in cleaning products and lower-grade applications.

What oils blend well with lavender?
Bergamot, chamomile, geranium, sweet orange, ylang-ylang, sandalwood, and many others. Lavender is one of the most universally blendable oils.

Can I use lavender oil during pregnancy?
Generally considered safe in moderate use after the first trimester; consult a qualified healthcare provider.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.