Extracted by steam distillation from the flowering tops of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. (lavender officinal, lavender vera, fine lavender), perennial shrub of the Lamiaceae widespread on the limestone mountains of the western Mediterranean among the 600 and the 1.800 m of elevation — French Provence, Ligurian Alps, northern Apennines, eastern Spain. It is the essential oil most studied, most versatile and best-selling in the world. The phytochemical profile is dominated by linalool (25-45%) and linalyl-acetate (25-45%), with terpinen-4-olo, β-ocimene and lavandulyl-acetate — a balanced composition which not has equal for therapeutic versatility. The linalool has documented agonist activity at the receptors GABA-TO (anxiolytic), the linalyl-acetate amplifies the sedative effect and the terpinen-4-olo contributes to the antibacterial activity. The European Pharmacopoeia recognizes the lavender as approved treatment for mild-to-moderate anxiety (oral preparation). In aromatherapy it is used as sedative, anxiolytic, analgesic, antibacterial, healing, antiseptic and as universal floral fragrance. Only oil usable undiluted on the skin for stings and small burns. Top-to-heart note floral, fresh and clean.

Mediterranean basin; the finest products come from France (Provence) and from Bulgaria.

Flowers and flowering tops

Steam distillation

• Aromatherapy: promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety and stress, improves sleep quality.
• Skin: soothing, healing, useful on minor burns, stings of insects, acne and dry skin.
• Muscular: relieves muscle tension and rheumatic pain if diluted in carrier oil.
• Environment: natural deodorant and repellent for moths and insects.
• Cosmetic: ingredient in perfumes, soaps, creams and shampoo.

Blends well with: