Spike Lavender Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Lavendula latifolia

Native to the mountainous regions of the Mediterranean, Spike Lavender is thought to be a cross between Lavender and Sage. It has a sharper, more camphorous aroma when compared to the angustifolia or 'true' Lavender varietal.

This Spike Lavender essential oil is lightweight (low viscosity) and nearly colorless. It is steam distilled from the flowers of plants naturally grown in France.

When using Lavender for purely aromatic purposes, consider using the angustifolia variety; it has a more subtle and floral aroma. Spike Lavender is best suited to medicinal aromatherapy applications.

This Spike Lavender oil has fresh, clear floral and camphoraceous top notes, green, herbaceous middle notes and a slightly wooded undertone.

It will blend well with most citrus and floral oils, Cedarwood, Clove, Clary Sage, Pine, Geranium, Labdanum, Oakmoss, Vetiver and Patchouli. When blending, use slightly smaller concentrations than 'true' Lavender oil; it can easily overwhelm a blend.

Lavender oil is the most versatile essential oil used in aromatherapy today, and has been known for centuries as a 'medicine chest in a bottle'. The 'Spike' Lavender variety may be the more 'medicinal' of the lavender family, with enhanced antiseptic properties due to its chemical structure. It has been used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, psychological balancing agent, an analgesic and as a sedative to relax the nervous system.

Analgesic, Anticonvulsive, Antidepressant, Antimicrobial, Antirheumatic, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Anti toxic, Carminative, Cholagogue, Choleretic, Cicatrisant,, Cytophylactic, Deodorant, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Hypotensive, Insecticide, Nervine, Parasiticide, Rubefacient, Sedative, Stimulant, Sudorific, Tonic, Vermifuge, Vulnerary. (See Definitions.)

The distinctive difference between this latifolia and other Lavender varieties is its superior antibacterial and antiseptic properties.

Dermatological:

• Effective at cleaning and healing wounds and burns
• Repels insects

Psychological:

• Uplifting and calming
• Effective at lifting depression and resultant headaches

Muscles and Joints:

• Dissipates arthritic and connective tissue pain (localized and generalized rheumatism)

Digestive System:

• Quells flatulent dyspepsia and colic

Respiratory System:

• Loosens and expels mucus congestion from chest, lungs and bronchial tubes

Spike Lavender essential oil can be diffused, inhaled, applied topically or ingested.

• Blend in a water or spray bottle to use on the skin as a natural astringent in cases of oily skin or acne.
• Blend with Peppermint essential oil to treat headaches and relieve depression.
• Blend with Sage essential oil to relieve uterine cramping during menstruation.

Even though this varietal of Lavender is more powerful in its medicinal constituents (primarily camphor), it remains a non-toxic, non-irritant that is generally non-sensitizing and considered safe for use on children. As with all essential oils, use in moderation is recommended and if intending to take internally, consultation with a physician is advised.