Lavender essential oil stands as one of the most recognized and widely used essential oils worldwide. Its distinctive aroma and diverse applications have made it a cornerstone of aromatherapy practices, household uses, and personal care routines. From ancient civilizations to modern research laboratories, lavender continues to captivate with its complex chemistry and traditional applications.
The purple-flowered plant known scientifically as Lavandula angustifolia Mill. has journeyed through millennia of human history, leaving traces in Egyptian tombs, Roman bathhouses, and medieval monasteries. Today, this Mediterranean native grows across continents, with major production centers in France, Bulgaria, and beyond. At doTERRA, lavender represents 4.2% of our total essential oil revenue, reflecting its enduring popularity among our customers worldwide.
The characteristic properties of lavender essential oil arise from its intricate chemical makeup. Modern analytical techniques have identified over 100 distinct compounds within lavender oil, though the primary constituents define its aromatic profile and properties.
According to research published in Pharmacia, the major components of lavender essential oil include linalyl acetate (27.5%) and linalool (24.1%), along with E-β-ocimene (7.0%), terpinen-4-ol (5.1%), and caryophyllene (4.5%). These percentages can vary significantly based on growing conditions, harvest time, and geographical location.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has established specific parameters for lavender essential oil quality. Standard lavender oil should include 20–45% linalool and 25–47% linalyl acetate, but less than 1.5% camphor, distinguishing true lavender (L. angustifolia) from spike lavender (L. latifolia) and lavandin (L. × intermedia).
Research from the Journal of Essential Oil Research demonstrates that linalool and linalyl acetate dominate, typically comprising 20-35% and 30-55% respectively, with moderate levels of lavandulyl acetate, terpinen-4-ol, and lavandulol. Additional minor constituents include 1,8-cineole, camphor, limonene, and various tannins.
The quality and composition of lavender oil depend heavily on extraction methods. Pure lavender essential oil is produced through steam distillation, which generates greater yields compared to other methods due to reduced polar compound loss. This process involves passing steam through lavender flowers, causing oil-containing pockets to rupture and release their aromatic contents.
Studies examining lavender from different regions reveal fascinating compositional variations. Ukrainian cultivars analyzed in Molecules showed linalool content ranging from 11.4% to 46.7% and linalyl acetate from 7.4% to 44.2%, highlighting the natural diversity within the species.
The relationship between humans and lavender stretches back over 2,500 years. The ancient Egyptians used lavender for mummification and perfume, while archaeological evidence suggests its presence in burial practices throughout the Mediterranean region.
The very name "lavender" reveals its historical significance. Lavender derives its name from the Latin 'lavare', meaning 'to wash', reflecting its extensive use in Roman bathing rituals. The Romans discovered multiple applications for this aromatic herb, using it to scent their baths, beds, clothes, and hair.
Ancient Greek civilization embraced lavender with equal enthusiasm. The Greeks called lavender "nardus," after the Syrian city of Naarda, and historical texts indicate they used it for various purposes, including promoting relaxation and freshening living spaces. The Greek physician Theophrastus documented its aromatic qualities in his third-century BCE work "Concerning Odours."
Medieval Europe saw lavender transition from bathhouse luxury to monastery solution. Monasteries preserved the knowledge of herbal lore in their physics gardens, with monks and nuns carefully cultivating lavender alongside other wellness plants. During this period, the herb gained new applications in household management and personal care.
The 12th century brought notable developments in lavender use. Hildegard of Bingen, a German saint and nun, claimed that "lavender water," a mixture of vodka or gin mixed with lavender, would address various discomforts. Her writings represent some of the earliest documented European uses of lavender preparations.
Renaissance culture elevated lavender to new heights of popularity. Washerwomen throughout medieval and Renaissance Europe were called "lavenders" because they would spread their freshly-washed laundry over lavender bushes to impart a pleasant fragrance. This practice gave rise to both a profession and the modern term "laundry."
Royal patronage further established lavender's prestigious status. Queen Elizabeth I of England required lavender conserve at the royal table and fresh lavender flowers throughout her residence. Later, Queen Victoria's fondness for lavender sparked widespread cultivation throughout the British Empire, leading to the development of what became known as English lavender.
The colonization of the Americas brought lavender across the Atlantic. The Shakers were the first to grow lavender commercially in North America, establishing herb farms that produced their own products and wellness solutions for distribution to distant markets.
Contemporary scientific investigation has brought new perspectives to lavender's traditional applications. Researchers worldwide have examined its chemical constituents, aromatic properties, and various uses through controlled studies and clinical trials.
A systematic review published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being examined lavender's effects on cognitive function. Among 1,203 articles reviewed, 11 met the strict eligibility criteria for inclusion in the analysis.
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC) adopted a community herbal monograph on Lavandula angustifolia Miller aetheroleum in 2012, providing specific guidelines for quality and use. This official recognition acknowledges lavender oil's long-standing traditional use while establishing modern standards for its application.
Research into aromatherapy applications has yielded interesting observations. A 2023 clinical trial published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Global Health investigated lavender aromatherapy in postoperative settings. The randomized controlled trial included 100 women undergoing cesarean sections, with participants randomly assigned to aromatherapy or placebo groups.
Studies examining lavender's aromatic properties have explored various delivery methods. Research indicates that essential oils delivered via the inhalation route may exert effects because the olfactory bulb has limbic inputs in the amygdala and hippocampus, brain regions associated with memory.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes that studies have suggested that a lavender oil product, taken orally, might be beneficial for occasional anxiousness, though they emphasize that research has limitations, including small sample sizes and lack of participant diversity.
A comprehensive analysis published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine reviewed multiple studies on lavender aromatherapy. The researchers noted that lavender inhalation was shown to produce beneficial results.
Lavender essential oil's versatility extends across numerous practical applications in daily life. From household uses to personal care routines, its pleasant aroma and properties have made it a staple in many homes.
In the home environment, lavender serves multiple purposes. Its fresh, clean scent makes it popular for natural room freshening and linen care. Many people add a few drops to wool dryer balls or cotton cloths placed in the dryer to impart a subtle fragrance to laundry. Similarly, sachets filled with dried lavender flowers or cotton balls with lavender oil can freshen closets and drawers.
For household cleaning, lavender oil can be incorporated into homemade cleaning solutions. When combined with vinegar or castile soap, it adds a pleasant scent to natural cleaning products. Some individuals add lavender to their vacuum cleaner bags or filters to release its aroma while cleaning.
The personal care industry has long recognized lavender's appeal. Its incorporation into soaps, lotions, and bath products reflects centuries-old bathing traditions. When creating DIY personal care products, lavender essential oil can be added to unscented bases such as carrier oils, lotions, or bath salts.
For aromatherapy applications, diffusion remains one of the most popular methods. Modern ultrasonic diffusers disperse lavender oil particles into the air, allowing for easy aromatic enjoyment. Alternatively, traditional methods like adding drops to hot water for steam inhalation or applying diluted oil to pulse points continue to be practiced.
The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to aromatherapy education, recognizes various diffusion methods for essential oils. These include ultrasonic diffusers, nebulizing diffusers, heat diffusers, and evaporative diffusers, each offering different advantages for dispersing lavender's aroma.
Direct inhalation provides another simple application method. Placing a drop or two on a tissue or inhaler stick allows for portable aromatherapy. Some practitioners recommend adding lavender to a bowl of steaming water and inhaling the vapor, though care must be taken to avoid burns from the steam.
Creating lavender-infused products at home offers a way to enjoy its properties while controlling ingredients. Simple recipes include:
Lavender Linen Spray: Combine distilled water with a small amount of vodka or witch hazel as an emulsifier, then add 10-15 drops of lavender essential oil per 4 ounces of liquid. Shake before each use and spray on linens or in rooms.
Relaxing Bath Salts: Mix 1 cup of Epsom salts with 1/2 cup of sea salt, then add 10-15 drops of lavender essential oil. Store in an airtight container and add 1/4 cup to warm bath water.
Lavender Body Oil: Dilute lavender essential oil in a carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil at a 2% dilution (approximately 12 drops per ounce of carrier oil) for topical application.
Ensuring the quality and safe use of lavender essential oil requires attention to several important factors. The global essential oil market includes products of varying quality, making informed selection crucial.
Quality lavender oil should be pure, without synthetic additives or dilution. Reputable suppliers provide detailed information about their oils, including botanical name, country of origin, and extraction method. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) reports offer detailed compositional analysis, allowing verification of authenticity.
The presence of synthetic linalool or linalyl acetate can sometimes be detected through specialized testing. A high enantiomeric purity of (R)-linalool and (R)-linalyl acetate is a characteristic feature of authentic lavender oil, with genuine lavender not exceeding 12% (S)-linalool and 1% (S)-linalyl acetate content.
Essential oils are highly concentrated substances requiring appropriate dilution before topical use. General guidelines suggest a 2% dilution for regular use on healthy adult skin, which translates to approximately 12 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil. For facial applications or sensitive skin, a 1% or lower dilution may be more appropriate.
Children, elderly individuals, and those with sensitive skin require even greater dilution. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy provides detailed safety guidelines for various age groups and applications, emphasizing the importance of proper dilution to avoid skin sensitization.
Proper storage extends the shelf life and maintains the quality of lavender essential oil. Dark glass bottles protect against light degradation, while tight-fitting caps prevent oxidation from air exposure. Storage in a cool, dark place away from heat sources helps preserve the oil's chemical integrity.
Temperature fluctuations can affect oil quality, so avoiding storage in bathrooms or cars is advisable. Many aromatherapists recommend refrigeration for long-term storage, though oils should be brought to room temperature before use to ensure proper flow and mixing.
While lavender is generally considered one of the gentler essential oils, safety precautions remain important. In general, 5 millilitres (0.17 US fl oz) of a diluted essential oil may cause toxicity in adults, whereas 2–3 millilitres (0.068–0.101 US fl oz) can be toxic in children.
Patch testing before widespread use helps identify potential sensitivities. Apply a diluted mixture to a small area of skin and observe for 24 hours before broader application. Any redness, itching, or irritation indicates the need for further dilution or discontinuation.
Essential oils should be kept away from the eyes, inner ears, and mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, dilution with a carrier oil rather than water provides better relief, as essential oils are not water-soluble.
What is lavender essential oil?
Lavender essential oil is a concentrated aromatic extract obtained through steam distillation of the flowering tops of Lavandula angustifolia. This clear to pale yellow liquid contains numerous volatile compounds that contribute to its characteristic scent and properties.
How is lavender essential oil made?
The production process involves steam distillation, where steam passes through lavender flowers at low pressure. The heat causes oil-containing structures within the plant to release their contents. The oil-laden steam then condenses, and the essential oil separates from the water due to differences in density.
What are the main components of lavender oil?
The primary constituents include linalool (20-45%) and linalyl acetate (25-47%), along with smaller amounts of lavandulyl acetate, terpinen-4-ol, and various other terpenes and esters. The exact composition varies based on factors including variety, growing conditions, and processing methods.
How should lavender oil be stored?
Store lavender essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting caps, away from heat and light. A cool, dark location, such as a cabinet or drawer, works well. Some practitioners recommend refrigeration for long-term storage, though oils should reach room temperature before use.
What should I look for when purchasing lavender oil?
Quality indicators include clear labeling with the botanical name (Lavandula angustifolia), country of origin, and extraction method. Reputable suppliers provide batch-specific GC/MS reports and avoid terms like "fragrance oil" or "lavender-type oil," which indicate synthetic products.
Lavender essential oil represents a remarkable intersection of historical tradition and modern investigation. From ancient Egyptian mummification practices to contemporary aromatherapy applications, this aromatic extract has maintained its relevance across cultures and centuries.
The complex chemistry of lavender, dominated by linalool and linalyl acetate, provides the foundation for its characteristic aroma and properties. While scientific research continues to explore its various applications, the enduring popularity of lavender speaks to its pleasant scent and versatility in everyday use.
As we continue to explore and understand essential oils, lavender remains a cornerstone of aromatherapy practice. Whether used for its aromatic qualities in household applications, incorporated into personal care routines, or simply enjoyed for its pleasant fragrance, lavender essential oil offers numerous ways to enhance daily life.
At doTERRA, we remain committed to providing high-quality lavender essential oil sourced from optimal growing regions. Through sustainable partnerships with growers and rigorous quality testing, we work to ensure that each bottle meets the highest standards of purity and authenticity.
Remember, when using any essential oil, including lavender, proper dilution and safety precautions are essential. We encourage you to explore the world of aromatherapy with knowledge and respect for these concentrated plant extracts.
For those interested in learning more about lavender essential oil and aromatherapy practices, we recommend visiting the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy website for educational resources and safety guidelines. Additionally, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health provides evidence-based information about lavender and other botanical products.
Dr. Nicole Stevens serves as Vice President of Clinical Research at doTERRA, where she leads scientific investigations into essential oil properties and applications. With over 25 years of experience in essential oil research, Dr. Stevens has worked in quality control laboratories in the nutraceutical industry and academic research laboratories at the University of Utah and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Cancer Research Institute. Dr. Stevens earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in technical writing and a Master of Science in botany, both from Brigham Young University, and a second Master of Science in public health from Purdue University. She completed her doctorate in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, investigating essential oil metabolomics and mechanisms of action.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
