Lavender, Spike

Product details

Botanical name : Lavandula latifolia or Lavandula spica

Extraction method / Source : Steam distillation / flowering tops

Aroma: Sweet, floral, herbaceous

Note classification: Middle

Odor Intensity: 5

Key constituents : Linalool, 1,8-cineole, camphor, beta-pinene, trans alpha-bisabolene, alpha-pinene, beta-caryophyllene, and many trace constituents

Plant description:

Botanical family: Laminaceae or Labiatae (mint)

Spike Lavender is an evergreen plant native to the areas around the Mediterranean Sea and is now grown in many areas around the globe. It also grows wild in many areas, especially France, Italy and Spain. Spike lavender plants grow to over 3 feet high and produce long flowering spikes of fragrant grey-blue flowers and large soft green leaves.

Regions of Production: Spain

Growing Practices: Cultivated without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides

History / Fun Facts
Lavandula latifolia is sometimes referred to as a "male lavender", while Lavandula angustifolia is referred to as a "female lavender". Historically called aspic, from the Greek word for cobra, spike lavender was used to treat individuals who suffered snake bites.

Properties 

Analgesic, anticonvulsant, antiphlogistic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericide, carminative, cholagogue, decongestant, deodorant, diuretic, emmenagogue, fungicide, hypotensive, nervine, restorative, sedative, sudorific, vulnerary (Battaglia, 2003). Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.

Uses / Benefits
Most commonly used for relaxation and skin healing. Helpful for respiratory infections, muscle and joint pain, insomnia, nervous tension, skin conditions (stretch marks, scarring, psoriasis, eczema, cellulite, acne), insect bites, burns, sunburn, digestive complaints related to stress. Spike Lavender essential oil is a powerful detoxifying agent and can be used on snake bites to immediately neutralize the venom. Makes a great addition to first aid kit for campers. Combined with Peppermint essential oil, Spike Lavender oil is used for treating headaches. Combined with Rosemary oil, it is highly effective for treating arthritic pain and inflammation. In a blend with Sage essential oil it can be used to alleviate menstrual irregularity or discomfort.

Fragrant influences
Improves concentration and mental clarity, calming, balancing (both physically and emotionally). Spike Lavender essential oil is calming in small amounts and will stimulate the nervous system in higher concentrations.

Modes of Administration
Topical: massage, compress, skin and hair care products.
For first aid, use full strength at the site.
Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer.

Blends well with
Anise, Bergamot, Black Pepper, Camphor, Cedarwood, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Clove, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Grapefruit, Juniper, Lemon, Lemongrass, Mandarin, Marjoram, Oakmoss, Orange, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Peppermint, Pine, Ravensara, Rose, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Thyme, Vetiver

Safety

Non-toxic, non-irritating, non-sensitizing.

Notice
This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease, and should not take the place of evaluation by a qualified health professional. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Precautions
Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.

References

Althea Press, Essential Oils : Natural Remedies, 2015. Althea Press, Berkeley, CA.

Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Second Edition, 2003. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: Soothing Remedies to Restore, Rejuvenate, and Heal, 2002. Prentice Hall Press, New York, NY.

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy : A Holistic Guide to Natural Healing with Essential Oils, 2015. Floramed Publishing, The Woodlands, TX.

England, Allison, Aromatherapy for Mother and Baby, 1994. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

Falconi, Dina, Earthly Bodies and Heavenly Hair : Natural and Healthy Personal Care for Every Body, 1998. Ceres Press, Woodstock, NY.

Green, Mindy, Natural Perfumes, 1999. Interweave Press, Loveland, CO.

Hampton, Aubrey, Natural and Organic Hair and Skin Care, 1987. Organica Press, Tampa, FL.

International Fragrance Research Association, http://www.ifraorg.org/en-us/standards (January 5, 2016)

Schnaubelt, Kurt, Advanced Aromatherapy: The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, (English translation)1998. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

Schnaubelt, Kurt, The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils : The Science of Aromatherapy, 2011. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

Tourles, Stephanie L., Hands On Healing Remedies, 2012. Storey Publishing, North Adams, MA.

Worwood, Valerie Ann, The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, 1991. New World Library, Novato, California