"Lavender" isn't just one thing! From the gentle True Lavender oil and hydrosol to the potent Spike Lavender and robust Lavandin, plus the traditional dried herbs, each form offers unique benefits. This guide helps you understand and choose.
Key Chemical & Aroma Profiles Compared
Relative comparison of typical dominant characteristics.
🌿 Why the Differences?
Species (*angustifolia*, *latifolia*, hybrid *intermedia*) and the extraction method (steam distillation for EO, water distillation for hydrosol, drying for herbs) drastically change the chemical makeup and therefore the aroma and best uses.
💖 Choosing Wisely
Knowing whether you need calming esters (True Lavender), stimulating camphor/cineole (Spike/Lavandin), gentle hydration (Hydrosol), or traditional infusion (Herbs) helps you select the perfect product for your purpose.
Explore Uses: Which Form is Best?
Select a common application below to see how the different Lavender forms compare in suitability. The chart highlights which forms are generally preferred or most effective for that specific use.
Comparison for Relaxation & Sleep
Relative suitability score (0-10).
Product Details
Explore the specific profiles of the five main Lavender product forms available at eOil.co.za.
How to Use the Lavender Family
Discover practical ways to incorporate each form of Lavender into your wellness routines for relaxation, skin care, home, and more.
💜 Lavender EO
Diffusion:
Diffuse 5-8 drops for calming ambiance or before sleep.
Topical:
Dilute 1-2 drops in carrier oil for skin soothing or massage.
Bath:
Mix 5-10 drops with Epsom salts/carrier oil before adding to bath.
💧 Lavender Hydrosol
Facial Toner:
Mist directly onto face after cleansing for gentle hydration.
Linen Spray:
Lightly mist pillows and bedding before sleep.
Skin Soother:
Spray onto mild sunburn or skin irritations for cooling relief.
🌿 Spike Lavender EO
Inhalation:
Add 2-3 drops to hot water for steam inhalation to clear airways (use cautiously).
Muscle Rub:
Dilute well (5-7 drops per tbsp carrier oil) for massage on sore muscles.
Cleaning:
Add 10 drops to cleaning sprays for its potent antiseptic properties.
🌱 Lavandin EO
Air Freshener:
Diffuse 8-10 drops, often blended with citrus, for a strong, clean scent.
Cleaning Booster:
Add 10-15 drops to mop water or laundry detergent.
Muscle Relief:
Use similarly to Spike Lavender in diluted massage blends for aches.
🌸 Lavender Dried Herbs
Calming Tisane (Tea):
Steep 1-2 tsp of dried flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
Bath Soak:
Add a handful of herbs (in a muslin bag) to a warm bath.
Sachets & Potpourri:
Use dried buds in drawers, closets, or decorative bowls for gentle aroma.
