What are the Differences Between Lavender Oils?
Ahh, the beautiful and enticing scent of Lavender Essential Oil is unmistakable! In fact, Lavender is probably considered the world’s most popular Essential Oil! This is because it is so incredibly versatile and contains so many therapeutic benefits. And, of course, it smells so good! But, did you notice that REVIVE actually sells 4 different types of Lavender Essential Oil? So, how do you know which one to choose? Well, we are here to break it down for you, so please read on.
What exactly is Lavender Essential Oil?
When people say Lavender, that is just a general term for the fragrant and floral plant that many know and love. The genus Lavandula currently has over 450 varieties that fall into 45 species! The two most common species are angustifolia and x intermedia (aka Lavindin). Most plants are the color lavender that we think of, but did you know that this flower can actually be dark purple, pink, gray, and even white?
The Essential Oil itself is steam distilled from the flowers of the Lavender bush. In general, when the oil is being sold as Lavender, it is usually angustifolia. This variety is known to be the most therapeutic, most readily available, and most widely used oil. But, it is important to note that where this plant is grown affects the oil as well. And that is why there are often different Lavender Essential Oils for purchase.
REVIVE Lavender Essential Oil
On REVIVE’s website, our “Lavender” oil is our most common and best-selling version. This is Lavandula angustifolia that was grown in Bulgaria. This area has become a world leader in Lavender production because of the well drained sandy soil and the sunny weather conditions. This type of Lavender is rich in linalool and linalyl acetate which makes it great for reducing stress, promoting sleep, easing inflammation, and fighting free radicals. It is also incredible for soothing skin. It is the version of Lavender Essential Oil that most people think of when they think of Lavender. The scent of this variation is sweet, soft, and herbaceous.
REVIVE Lavender Certified Essential Oil
This variety of Lavender is also Lavandula angustifolia, but it is 100% USDA Certified Organic. This means that there have been no pesticides or fertilizers used. It also means that they make sure the farm is promoting ecological balance and following conservation regulations. It has the same therapeutic profile as REVIVE’s Lavender and a similar scent. It is, however, grown in Greece, which has the same climate and terrain as Bulgaria.
REVIVE French Lavender Essential Oil
Like the name says, this type of Lavender (which is also Lavandula angustifolia) comes from France. Because these flowers are grown in a higher altitude and cooler temperatures, it has a higher ester profile. This creates an aroma that is more intensely floral and green. It also makes for an uber relaxing Essential Oil. French Lavender oil is ideal for promoting stress relief and balancing emotions. It is also a wonderful antibacterial, making it a good choice for soap or cleaning products.
REVIVE Spike Lavender Essential Oil
Spike Lavender is a completely different variety called Lavandula latifolia. This oil also originates from flowers grown in France. The scent profile of Spike Lavender is much more camphoraceous and herbal, but with a slightly woody undertone. Latifolia is considered to be a “soapier” smell, and many relate it to Eucalyptus or Rosemary because of its stronger and more medicinal aroma. The chemical background of this version makes it great for calming muscle spasms and killing bacteria.
REVIVE Lavandin Essential Oil
Our French Lavandin/Grosso (aka Lavandula x intermedia) is a hybrid of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Spike Lavender. This results in a sweet and floral scent that is a bit more herbaceous and camphor-like. Because it contains both types of Lavender, it also holds the therapeutic qualities of both. We love this variety for its ability to ease inflammation and soothe the respiratory system. Additionally, Lavandin is an effective insect repellent due to its stronger aroma.
Other Lavender Options
When it comes to Lavender, there are other ways to use it besides just the pure Essential Oil. REVIVE has a ready to use Lavender Roll-on for topical applications that contains our most popular Lavender Essential Oil premixed with Fractionated Coconut Oil. This means that you can easily roll the safely diluted product directly on your skin as needed. Additionally, we offer a Lavender Hydrosol. This is the byproduct of distilling the Essential Oil and is often referred to as floral water. We love hydrosol for super safe topical use and fast, fresh aromatic uses. It is great for the skin, but also a quick spritz can help calm the mind.
Choosing REVIVE
Now that you know the similarities and differences of the types of Lavender oils, you can more easily make your decision on which to choose. One thing is clear, that when you do choose your oils, you can count on REVIVE. With over 1300 five star reviews, affordable prices, and 100% pure therapeutic oils, there is no doubt that this company is the right choice. And when you are looking for other Essential Oils and Blends, REVIVE has those too!