Extremely well tolerated by everyone, babies, children and adults, True or Fine Lavender essential oil is also known as Officinal Lavender. Renowned for its cutaneous, analgesic, calming and even healing properties, it is also suitable for deeper problems such as insomnia or muscle cramps. An exceptional versatility which makes this essential oil with the sweet scent of Provence, an essential to have in your aromatherapy kit! Latin name: Lavandula officinalis Chaix or Lavandula angustifolia Mill. Distilled part: flowering tops

This article was updated on 11/10/2023

Precautions for use

True Lavender or Fine Lavender essential oil does not present any particular risks, all ways of use are possible. It is only not recommended for babies under 3 months and pregnant women under 3 months. However, it contains a significant quantity of linalool which is an allergenic compound. People with allergic conditions must therefore be vigilant. It is contraindicated in cases of severe hypotension. Finally, people with asthma should seek medical advice before using it.

Authorized users

Adults and Teenagers Adults and Teenagers
Children under 6 years old Children under 6 years old
Pregnant women less than 3 months Pregnant women less than 3 months
Babies under 3 months Babies under 3 months

Possible ways of use

Inhaled Inhaled
Dermal Dermal
Oral route Oral route
In broadcast In broadcast

Risks of use

Allergenic Allergenic
Non-irritating to the skin Non-irritating to the skin
Not Photosensitizing Not Photosensitizing
Non Hepatotoxic Non Hepatotoxic

Other precautions

Medical advice

People with asthma should seek medical advice before use.

Skin application
  • Use as a skin application in babies over 3 months and in sensitive people must be diluted.
  • Used pure over the long term, True or Officinal Lavender essential oil is drying and promotes the appearance of sensitization, therefore an allergic risk. It is best to dilute it in vegetable oil as soon as possible.
Contraindications
  • Although one of the gentlest essential oils, you should avoid using too large quantities which can cause a reversal of the effects: it becomes exciting (nervousness, insomnia).
  • Be careful to distinguish True Lavender essential oil from other Lavenders (Aspic, Stoechas, Lavandin Super). Their biochemical compositions and their restrictions on use have nothing to do with it!
  • This essential oil is not recommended in cases of severe hypotension.
Allergenic components

True Lavender essential oil contains several allergenic biochemical components in high quantities.

  • linalool (20 to 48%);
  • geraniol (≤1.5%);
  • limonene (≤1%);
  • coumarin (≤0.2%).

Note: It is best to test the essential oil before using it (two drops in the crook of the elbow for at least 24 hours to check that there is no reaction). Also ensure that storage conditions are respected to avoid any risk of oxidation, which could cause the formation of secondary sensitizing compounds.

Properties of True Lavender essential oil

True or Fine Lavender essential oil is highly concentrated in linalool and linalyl acetate in particular. These different molecules give it the following main properties:

  • spasmolytic, muscle relaxant ++++ (linalool, linalyl acetate):

    true Lavender essential oil helps reduce muscular, digestive or respiratory spasms: it limits involuntary contractions of smooth muscles through the action of linalool which would inhibit the release of acetylcholine. Linalyl acetate may be antispasmodic in vascular smooth muscles by activation of nitric oxide.

  • calming, anxiolytic, sedative ++++ (linalool, linalyl acetate):

    true Lavender essential oil is known to promote falling asleep and restful sleep. It also helps with stress management and promotes sustained attention and concentration. Studies have notably made it possible to identify the mechanisms of action of True Lavender at several levels such as the increase in certain neurotransmitters involved in mood and sleep (GABA, serotonin, norepinephrine and acetylcholine) and the reduction in the rate of cortisol, the stress hormone.

  • analgesic, local anesthetic +++ (linalool):

    studies on isolated linalool and lavender essential oil have confirmed its ability to reduce pain by acting in particular on opioid, muscarinic and dopaminergic receptors.

  • vasodilator, hypotensive +++ (linalool, terpinen-4-ol, monoterpene esters):

    true Lavender essential oil helps reduce heart rate and blood pressure. Antispasmodic, it induces vasodilation by relaxation of the smooth muscles of the vessels. Without replacing an ongoing treatment, these properties are useful in cases of stress.

  • healing +++ (linalool, sesquiterpene carbides):

    true Lavender essential oil helps stimulate the regeneration of skin cells. It allows wound healing by promoting the formation of granulation tissues, the renewal of collagen and the contraction of wounds by stimulating the growth factor TGF-β.

  • antibacterial, antifungal ++ (linalool, terpinene-4-ol, 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol)):

    the anti-infectious properties of Lavender essential oil are due to the synergistic action of its components. It is especially effective in combination with other essential oils such as Tea Tree against Staphylococcus aureus, the bacteria responsible for acne and certain Dermatophyte or Candida mycoses.

  • anti-lice ++ :

    the pediculicidal action of Lavender is mainly conferred by linalool which is fatal for nits and adult lice. True Lavender is also an excellent repellent useful for prevention. 

But also these secondary properties:

  • anti-inflammatory
  • insecticide
  • immunomodulating
  • repellent
  • cardiovascular protector

In case of Itchy skin, Skin pain

Efficiency: ++++

Simple use

For adults and adolescents. Through the skin, apply 1 to 2 pure drops of True Lavender essential oil to the localized area. For sensitive skin or large areas of application, dilute the essential oil to 20% in a vegetable oil (2 drops of essential oil for 8 drops of vegetable oil or 60 drops for 8 mL of HV).

From 3 years old. Through the skin, dilute the essential oil to 10% in a vegetable oil (1 drop of essential oil for 9 drops of vegetable oil or 30 drops of EO in 9 mL of HV).

From 3 months. Through the skin, dilute the essential oil to 5% in a vegetable oil (15 drops of EO in 9.5 mL of HV).

In case of Headache (children)

Efficiency: ++++

Simple use

From 3 years old. Through the skin, apply 1 to 2 pure drops of True Lavender essential oil to a localized area (Be careful not to get it in the eyes!). For sensitive skin or repeated applications, dilute the essential oil to 10% in a vegetable oil (1 drop of essential oil for 9 drops of vegetable oil or 30 drops of EO in 9 mL of HV) .

Use in synergy

From 3 years old. Apply 2 drops of the mixture locally to the area of ​​pain, being careful not to get near the eyes. Renew the application as needed.

  • 20 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil
  • 20 drops of True Lavender essential oil
  • 5 drops of Complete Ylang Ylang essential oil
  • 125 drops of Argan vegetable oil

More details or other users: essential oils against migraines.

In case of' Hyperactivity (children)

Efficiency: ++++

Simple use

From 3 years old. Inhaled, breathe the essential oil directly above the bottle, slowly and deeply, and repeat as many times as necessary

From 3 months:

  • In broadcast, pour the number of drops indicated on the diffuser instructions then diffuse in intervals of 5 to 10 minutes (in the absence of children). 
  • Through the skin, dilute the essential oil to 5% in a vegetable oil (15 drops of EO in 9.5 mL of HV). Apply 2-3 drops of the mixture by massaging the chest, back or arch of the foot.

Use in synergy

From 3 months. In an empty bottle, add: 

  • 10 drops of Shelled Marjoram essential oil
  • 10 drops of Fine Lavender essential oil
  • 10 drops of Petit Grain Bigarade essential oil
  • 30 mL Apricot Kernel Oil
  • 4 mL of Borage oil

With this mixture take the time to massage the different areas of the body: the back, the trapezius, the legs, the feet (preferred area for babies). Perform a massage from bottom to top. Favor this massage at the end of the day.

More details or other users: essential oils in case of stress.

As' Anti-lice (babies), Anti-lice (young children)

Efficiency: ++++

Simple use

From 3 years old. As a hair mask, mix 30 drops of True Lavender essential oil with 20 mL of Coconut or Neem oil. Apply a few drops of this mixture to the scalp and leave for 15 to 30 minutes, covering the hair with a bathing cap. Then rinse with a mild shampoo after removing the lice using an anti-lice comb.

From 3 months. In shampoo, add 1 drop of True Lavender essential oil to a small amount of shampoo each time you wash.

Use in synergy

Reserved for ages 3+. Use an anti-lice comb to spread the treatment well, remove the largest specimens and soak the hair well with this regenerating treatment. Massage the scalp, then leave for at least 1 hour (or overnight) by covering the hair with a towel, then rinse with a mild shampoo.

  • 20 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
  • 20 drops of True Lavender essential oil
  • 25 mL of Argan, Coconut or Castor vegetable oil

Source: Couic-Marinier, F., & Touboul, A. (2017). The Living Earth guide to essential oils. Living earth.

 

In case of Wound

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 3 years old. Through the skin, after cleaning the wound with soap and water, apply 1 pure drop of True Lavender to the wound, 3 times a day, until the wound disappears.

True Lavender or Tea Tree?

True Lavender essential oil will be very effective in cases of wounds thanks to its anti-infectious, skin calming but also healing properties. However, if you have some on hand, thetea Tree essential oil will be even better! Cutaneously: 1 pure drop on the wound 3 times a day. Dilute the essential oil in a vegetable oil for babies aged 3 months to 3 years.

Use in synergy

Suitable for children over 3 years old. After cleaning the wound with soap and water, apply 1 drop of the mixture locally 3 times a day until healing. 

  • 40 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
  • 40 drops of true lavender essential oil
  • 20 drops of Cistus essential oil

More details or other users: natural disinfectant with essential oils.

In case of Muscle cramp

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 3 years old. Through the skin, gently massage with 1 drop of True Lavender essential oil in 4 drops of vegetable oil on the affected area, 4 times a day, until improvement.

Do not hesitate to increase the quantity of vegetable oil depending on the surface of application.

True Lavender or Fragrant Wintergreen?

In case of muscle cramps, True Lavender can be interesting for young people due to its calming and muscle relaxing properties. However, from 6 years old, it is the Fragrant Wintergreen which will clearly be favored. As a reference for muscle pain, we cannot miss it. It is used cutaneously, gently massage the area concerned with 1 drop diluted in 9 drops of vegetable oil.

In case of Sunburn

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 3 years old. Through the skin, in case of sunburn dilute the essential oil to 10% in a vegetable oil (1 drop of essential oil for 9 drops of vegetable oil or 30 drops of EO in 9 mL of HV).

From 3 months. Dermal, apply True Lavender essential oil to the sunburn area by diluting it to 5% in a vegetable oil (15 drops of essential oil in 9.5 mL of HV).    

Use in synergy

Suitable for babies and children over 3 years old. In case of sunburn, gently massage the skin using 2 to 8 drops of the mixture depending on the extent of the sunburn. Repeat the operation 3 times a day until the sunburn subsides and disappears.

  • 6 drops of Rosat Geranium essential oil
  • 6 drops of Fine Lavender essential oil
  • 180 drops (9 mL) of Calendula oily macerate

More details or other users: essential oils to relieve sunburn.

True Lavender or Aspic Lavender?

True or Fine Lavender essential oil is very flexible to use, it is particularly suitable for young children in particular. From the age of 6, it is interesting to replace the latter with a lavender Aspic essential oil, more powerful. Cutaneously, 1 to 5 drops of pure essential oil on the burn (depending on the extent), every 1/4 hour after the burn appears, then 3 times a day, until it disappears. In case of sunburn, dilute the essential oil to 10% in a vegetable oil to be able to cover a larger area.

In case of Sleep problems, Insomnia

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 3 years old. It is possible to use it diffusely or cutaneously as below. Inhalation is also possible; breathe the essential oil directly above the bottle, slowly and deeply, and renew if necessary. In addition, it is possible to place 1 drop of True Lavender on the pillow or on a handkerchief on the bedside table.

From 3 months:

  • In broadcast, pour the number of drops indicated on the diffuser instructions then diffuse in intervals of 5 to 10 minutes (without children being present). 
  • Dermal, dilute the essential oil to 5% in a vegetable oil (15 drops of EO in 9.5 mL of HV). Apply 2-3 drops of the mixture by massaging the wrists, solar plexus, back or arch of the foot.

True Lavender or Roman Chamomile?

True Lavender can be effective against insomnia, butroman Chamomile essential oil is even more effective. It can be used from the age of 3 months in diffusion for example, 10 minutes before bedtime or cutaneously, 1 drop diluted in 9 drops of vegetable oil, massage on the solar plexus and/or the soles.

Use in synergy

For adults and adolescents. Use the mixture by diffusion or inhalation. It is also possible to use it cutaneously, 1 drop on the inside of the wrists to breathe, or add 4 mL of vegetable oil for sensitive skin, applying to the wrists, the solar plexus or the soles of the feet .

  • 60 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil
  • 30 drops of Bergamot essential oil
  • 30 drops of True Lavender essential oil

More details or other users: essential oils for insomnia.

Against the Stress

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 3 years old:

  • In broadcast, pour the number of drops indicated on the diffuser instructions then diffuse in intervals of 5 to 10 minutes (without children being present).  
  • When inhaled, breathe directly above the bottle 2 to 3 times a day or place a few drops on the wick of an inhaler or a tissue, 2 to 3 times a day.
  • Dermal, dilute 1 drop of True Lavender essential oil in 20 drops of vegetable oil. Massage the different areas of the body: the solar plexus, the back, the trapezius, the legs, the feet (preferred area for children), the hands. For adults, it is possible to place 1 pure or diluted drop of True Lavender on the wrists and inhale deeply, up to 3 times a day.
  • In the bath, mix 5 to 10 drops of True Lavender essential oil in 1 teaspoon of bath base. Pour the mixture into the bath water (maximum 37°C). Stay in the bath for around twenty minutes. Do not rinse before drying off.

True Lavender or Petit Grain Bigarade?

True or Fine Lavender and its exquisite scent of Provence is excellent for reducing stress but in this area, we can count on a reference essential oil, Petit grain bigarade which is used like True Lavender.

Use in synergy

From 3 months. Use the following mixture as a massage oil to apply to the back, legs, feet and finish with the hands.

  • 10 drops of Shelled Marjoram essential oil
  • 10 drops of Fine Lavender essential oil
  • 10 drops of Petit Grain Bigarade essential oil
  • 3 tablespoons (30mL) of Apricot Kernel vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons (i.e. 4mL) of Borage vegetable oil

More details or other users: essential oils in case of stress.

Against the Psoriasis

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 3 years old. Through the skin, dilute the essential oil to 5 to 10% in a vegetable oil (1 drop of essential oil for 9 to 20 drops of vegetable oil or 15 to 30 drops of EO in 9 mL of HV). Take a one-week break after 3 weeks of use.

True Lavender or Rosat Geranium?

True Lavender can be effective in cases of psoriasis thanks to its skin, calming and healing properties. However, if you have the essential oil of Geranium Rosat will be even better. It is used like True Lavender with the same dosages.

Use in synergy

Reserved for ages 3+. When applied to the skin, gently place 4 to 8 drops of the synergy of essential oils on the psoriasis. Renew the application 2 to 3 times a day until improvement.

  • 5 drops of Rosat Geranium essential oil
  • 5 drops of Fine Lavender essential oil
  • 10 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
  • 10 drops of Chamomile essential oil
  • 140 drops (7 mL) of Calendula oily macerate

More details or other users: essential oils to fight psoriasis.

In case of Scar

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 6 years old. Through the skin, apply 1 to 2 drops of True Lavender locally on the affected area, twice a day, until healing.

From 3 months. Through the skin, dilute the essential oil to 5 to 10% in a vegetable oil (1 drop of essential oil for 9 to 20 drops of vegetable oil). Apply 2 to 3 drops of the mixture and massage the scar until improvement.

True Lavender or Italian Helichrysum?

True or Fine Lavender is particularly suitable for young people, from the age of 3 months and for pregnant women over 3 months. For others and from the age of 6, the use of theItalian Helichrysum is clearly the best solution in aromatherapy. Cutaneously, 2 pure drops (or diluted in vegetable oil) of Italian Helichrysum on the affected area, twice a day, until healing.

Use in synergy

Reserved for ages 6+. For skin application, place 2 to 4 drops of the mixture, 3 times a day on the scarred area. You can repeat the application for 10 days if the scar is recent, several months if it is old. In the event of a scar on the face or over a large area, do not hesitate to dilute it in a vegetable oil.

  • 20 drops of Italian Helichrysum essential oil
  • 40 drops of Fine Lavender essential oil
  • 20 drops of Patchouli essential oil
  • 20 drops of Rosemary Camphor essential oil

More details or other users: essential oils for scars.

In case of' Bed sore, Skin ulcer

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 3 months, Prevention. Dermal, apply 1 drop of True Lavender essential oil in 9 drops of vegetable oil with a gentle massage on the friction areas at risk of bedsores.

Use in synergy

Reserved for ages 6+. To prevent pressure sores, massage areas at risk (heels, buttocks, elbows, etc.) regularly with the following mixture.

  • 6 drops of Rosat Geranium essential oil
  • 8 drops of True or Fine Lavender essential oil
  • 4 drops of Niaouli essential oil
  • 2 drops of Rosemary Verbenone essential oil
  • 50 mL of Sweet Almond vegetable oil
  • 20 mL of oily macerate of St. John’s Wort

Source: Couic-Marinier, F., & Touboul, A. (2017). The Living Earth guide to essential oils. Living earth.

True Lavender or Myrrh?

True Lavender essential oil can be effective in preventing bedsores or skin ulcers butmyrrh essential oil remains the reference essential oil to use in the event of bedsores, on medical advice depending on the stage of development of the wound. Its skin healing properties as well as analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties will be a valuable aid. Cutaneously, apply 1 drop in 9 drops of vegetable oil by massaging onto the affected area.

In case of' Acne

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

Suitable even for young adolescents.  Through the skin, 1 pure drop of True Lavender on each pimple, morning and evening after washing your face, until the acne disappears. In case of extensive acne, dilute in Nigella vegetable oil depending on the area of ​​application. At 5% for the face (1 drop of essential oil in 20 drops of HV) or 10% for the back and shoulders (1 drop of essential oil in 9 drops of HV). Take a week's break after 3 weeks of use.

True Lavender or Tea Tree?

True or Fine Lavender essential oil will be very effective against acne thanks to its healing, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, but if you have some on hand, that of Tea Tree will be even better! Through the skin, it is used like True Lavender with the same dosages.

Use in synergy

Suitable even for young adolescents. When applied to the skin, pour 3 to 4 drops per day on inflamed spots. Use your synergy for 10 to 15 days, and renew if necessary.

  • 35 drops of Lemon Eucalyptus essential oil
  • 35 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
  • 50 drops of Fine Lavender essential oil
  • 120 drops of Jojoba vegetable oil

More details or other users: essential oils against acne.

In case of Insect bite, Stings

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 3 years old. Through the skin, apply 1 pure drop of True Lavender essential oil to the affected area, repeat if necessary. For sensitive skin or large areas of application, dilute the essential oil to 20% as below.

From 3 months. Through the skin, dilute the essential oil to 20% in a vegetable oil (1 drop of essential oil for 4 drops of vegetable oil or 60 drops of EO for 8 mL of HV). Apply a few drops of the mixture to the pimples.

Use in synergy

Reserved for ages 3+. Apply 2 drops of the mixture to each mosquito bite. Repeat 3 times a day until healed.

  • 20 drops of True Lavender essential oil
  • 20 drops of Lemon Eucalyptus essential oil
  • 20 drops of Rosat Geranium essential oil
  • 60 drops (3 mL) of Calendula oily macerate

More details or other users: essential oils against itching and stings.

True Lavender or Aspic Lavender?

True or Fine Lavender essential oil is very flexible to use, and particularly suitable for young children. For those over 6 years old, it is possible to replace the latter with a more powerful Lavender Aspic essential oil. Using the skin, apply 1 pure drop of Lavender Aspic to the pimple or affected area, as quickly as possible after the sting appears. To be renewed every 1/4 hour, if necessary.

In case of Palpitations, tachycardia, hypertension

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 6 years old, on medical advice. In olfaction, place 1 drop of True Lavender essential oil on the inside of the wrists, then take deep breaths, as soon as the need arises in situations caused by stress. It is also possible to place a few drops on a tissue, use an inhaler stick or breathe directly above the bottle.

Does not replace treatment for hypertension or heart rhythm disorders.

True Lavender or Complete Ylang Ylang?

True or Fine Lavender is effective because of its calming and soothing properties but Ylang Ylang essential oil will be even more specific to this problem in the event of stress-related disorders. Using the skin, apply 1 drop of Ylang Ylang essential oil to the inside of the wrists, then take deep breaths as needed (medical advice required for long-term use). Does not replace treatment for hypertension or heart rhythm disorders.

Use in synergy

From 6 years old, on medical advice. With the doctor's approval, massage 5 drops of the mixture onto the solar plexus and/or the inside of the wrists. Reapply up to twice a day. Take a break after 3 weeks of use.

  • 10 drops of Ylang-Ylang essential oil
  • 10 drops of Lemon Eucalyptus essential oil
  • 30 drops of True Lavender essential oil
  • 30 drops of Shelled Marjoram essential oil
  • 20 drops of Argan oil

More details or other users: essential oils in case of hypertension.

In case of Burn

Efficiency: +++

Simple use

From 3 years old. Dermal, in the event of a superficial and localized burn, after having cooled the burn well under cool water then dried the skin, apply 1 to 3 drops of pure True Lavender essential oil every 1/4 hour after the appearance of the burn. burning, then 3 times a day, until appeased. In the event of a superficial burn over a larger area, dilute the essential oil to 10% in a vegetable oil (1 drop of essential oil for 9 drops of vegetable oil or 30 drops of EO in 9 mL of HV) .  

From 3 months. Through the skin, in case of superficial burn, dilute the essential oil of True Lavender to 5% in a vegetable oil (15 drops of essential oil in 9.5 mL of HV). After having cooled the burn well under cool water and then drying the skin, apply 1 to 3 drops of the mixture every 1/4 hour after the burn appears, then 3 times a day, until soothed.

Use in synergy

Suitable for children over 3 months old. In the event of a superficial burn, after having cooled the burn well under cool water then dried the skin, apply 2 to 6 drops of the mixture locally depending on the extent of the burn, every 15 minutes for the following hour. Then apply 2 to 6 drops, 3 times a day until complete relief.

  • 10 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
  • 10 drops of true lavender essential oil
  • 5 drops of Cistus essential oil
  • 100 drops of oily Calendula macerate

More details or other users: essential oils to relieve a burn.

True Lavender or Aspic Lavender?

True or Fine Lavender essential oil is very flexible to use, it is particularly suitable for young children in particular. From the age of 6, it is interesting to replace the latter with an essential oil of Lavender Aspic, more powerful. Cutaneously, 1 to 5 drops of pure essential oil in the event of a localized superficial burn, every 1/4 hour after the burn appears, then 3 times a day, until it disappears. In case of a larger area, dilute the essential oil to 10% in a vegetable oil to be able to cover a larger area

Other famous applications of True Lavender

True or Fine Lavender essential oil is used on many occasions, particularly linked to its beneficial properties for the skin, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, or even regenerating and soothing to the skin. In addition, it is also known for its soothing and relaxing properties. For most of the following uses it will be effective, but without necessarily being the best essential oil. We therefore indicate to you the best replacement for True or Fine Lavender for the following different problems. Stay vigilant regarding the precautions for use and possible users for each of the following essential oils.

Skin allergy

True or Fine Lavender effective but… there Annual Tansy is an anti-allergic reference. It is generally used cutaneously at a rate of 1 drop in 4 drops of vegetable oil applied to the affected areas, twice a day for 7 to 10 days.

Asthma

True or Fine Lavender effective due to its calming and soothing properties but… it is better to use thekhella essential oil. Cutaneously, apply 1 drop in 9 drops of vegetable oil to apply to the thorax, every 15 minutes until improvement. On medical advice to accompany the prescribed allopathic treatment.

Concentration problems

True or Fine Lavender can be effective due to its calming and soothing properties but… there Field Mint will clearly be favored if you have it on hand. When inhaling, breathe the essential oil directly above the bottle, slowly and deeply, and repeat if necessary.

Herpes, Shingles

True or Fine Lavender effective against skin problems in general but… better to favor theniaouli essential oil in this case. Cutaneously, apply 2 pure drops directly to the herpes, every 2 hours, until the herpes disappears. In the case of a large area, dilute the essential oil in a vegetable oil (1 drop of essential oil in 4 drops of HV).

Common cold

True or Fine Lavender can be effective thanks to its anti-infectious properties but… Eucalyptus Radiata will clearly be preferred. Usable from 6 years old, this essential oil is ideal for inhalation, directly above the bottle to unclog the nose at the first signs.

How to recognize a good True Lavender essential oil?

Botanical characteristics
  • Latin Name: Lavandula officinalis Chaix or Lavandula angustifolia Mill.
  • Botanical family: Lamiaceae
  • Part used: flowering tops
  • Country of origin: Metropolitan France, Bulgaria.
Physical characteristics
  • Density at 20°C: 0.878 to 0.892
  • Refractive index at 20°C: 1.455 to 1.466
  • Rotational power at 20°C: -12 to -7
  • Flash point: 71
Organoleptic characteristics
  • Appearance: clear mobile liquid
  • Color: colorless, pale yellow
  • Odor: aromatic, characteristic.
Biochemical characteristics
  • linalyl acetate: 25 to 46%
  • linalool: 20 to 45%
  • terpinen-4-ol: 1.2 to 6%
  • octanone-3: ≤ 2.5%
  • 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol): ≤ 2.5%
  • α-terpineol: ≤ 2%
  • camphor (borneone): ≤ 1.2%
  • lavandulyl acetate: ≥ 1%
  • limonene: ≤ 1%

Harvest and differences between Lavenders

Harvest lavender at daybreak

A well-maintained lavender plantation can flourish for decades! Lavender bushes reach their peak in the fourth year. The best season to harvest lavender is when it is flowering: in the middle of summer, between the end of June and August. It is best to harvest it early in the morning when the weather is nice and dry. This allows you to pick the most open and fragrant flowers. Just after the dew, and before the sun is too high, the flowers retain all their scent.

The best tool is the pruning shears because it allows you to cut the stems straight, optimizing the regrowth of the lavender. This Mediterranean plant grows in full sun on rocky soil, but it also adapts to any good garden soil. It must be pruned every year in autumn after flowering so that it can keep its compact shape.

After picking, it is possible to store fresh lavender in damp paper in the refrigerator for a few days, or dry it by keeping a stem of about thirty centimeters and letting them dry in the open air, flat, in a dry and well-ventilated environment.

Fine, True or Aspic Lavender... What are the differences?

Although they all have the same genus Lavandula, most Lavenders are distinguished by their species, the name that comes right after the genus. This classification establishes the foundations of botany and allows, what interests us most, the obtaining of essential oils as different as each other. To know more, discover our guide to the different Lavenders

We tell you about it in video

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Work : Baudoux, D. (2008). Aromatherapy: treating yourself with essential oils. Amyris Editions.

Work : Couic Marinier, F., & Touboul, A. (2017). The Living Earth guide to essential oils. Terre Vivante Editions.

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About these tips

This aromatherapy article was written by Théophane de la Charie, author of the book “Treat yourself with essential oils”, accompanied by a multidisciplinary team made up of pharmacists, biochemists and agronomists. 

La Compagnie des Sens and its teams do not encourage self-medication. The information and advice provided comes from a reference bibliographic database (books, scientific publications, etc.). They are given for information purposes, or to suggest avenues for reflection: they should in no case replace a diagnosis, consultation or medical follow-up, and cannot engage the liability of the Compagnie des Sens.