Lavender is perhaps one of the best known and most used essential oils.

The name derives from the Latin, lavare, and both the Romans and the Greeks had the habit of perfuming the water they used for their ablutions with the flowers of this plant.

Perhaps not everyone knows that there are different species of Lavender from which very different essential oils are distilled.

From the steam distillation of Lavandula Angustifolia (officinalis) you get a very delicate essential oil, easy to handle but at the same time complex as it is rich in chemical families, so much so that it can be considered a real mixture. The percentage of potentially dangerous compounds, such as ketones, is very low, it does not exceed 1% while the presence of alcohols and esters is very high which make it a relaxing and harmonizing compound. This type of essential oil can be used pure on the skin, as long as in small quantities, it can be used from the first months of life to soothe diaper rash, to help the newborn relax and sleep and to reduce abdominal colic.

Lavender Angustifolia (or true lavender) essential oil It is anti-inflammatory, slightly analgesic, antispasmodic, counteracts high blood pressure and anxiety. It acts on the stomach and intestines, stimulates liver activity and the production of bile. It is excellent for burns and insect bites and to soothe itching in cases of dermatitis. Excellent as an aftersun added to St. John's Wort oil. We can consider this precious essential oil as a balm for our soul, in cases of sadness and loneliness. It is a harmonizing essential oil when emotions take over. It brings calm, peace, harmony, tranquility. It washes away problems and brings a message of healing. It is an excellent remedy for anger and frustration, reduces conflicts. It can help those who expect too much from themselves, to be less inflexible. It encourages not to be ashamed to ask for help. It helps verbal expression and reduces insecurities in expressing one's thoughts and feelings. It counteracts the fear of rejection and encourages emotional honesty. It helps to freely express one's Self.

From the steam distillation of Lavandula Hybrida (cd lavandin) an essential oil is obtained that is mainly used in perfumery. The yield of lavandula hybrida is much higher than that of lavandula angustifolia and this means that it is often sold as true lavender. In reality, the chemical composition of the two essential oils is different because in lavandin oil there is a higher component of ketones which make it unsuitable for small children, pregnant women and subjects with epileptic seizures. From the point of view of its properties, it has a lower anti-inflammatory effect than true lavender.

From the steam distillation of Lavandula Latifolia (Lavender spica) an essential oil is obtained with an even higher percentage of ketones, in particular camphor, which makes it an essential oil more suitable for the musculoskeletal system. It should be absolutely avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and in children up to 6 years of age.

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