Lavender Essential Oil - Spain

Description

Lavender belongs to the large Lamiaceae family. It grows in mountainous areas, generally at altitudes between 800 and 1900 metres. It flowers in summer, between July and August, when the beautiful lavender fields of southern France can be visited.
Its exact place of origin is uncertain, but all indications point to Persia.
Lavender is mentioned in many ancient writings describing its therapeutic properties and uses. However, it is not known exactly which lavender these documents referred to, as they may have meant French lavender (lavandula stoechas), spike lavender (lavandula spica) or true lavender, depending on where the plants grew.

Lavender has become famous for its essential oil. Its properties are very numerous, and it is considered a true panacea.

Essential oil production began in Provence, in southern France, in the XVI century. Demand grew considerably in the early XX century, with production mainly destined for perfumery. France could not meet market demand, and the plant began to be cultivated in countries such as England, Bulgaria and the United States, and even in Tasmania.
This plant is rarely cultivated in Spain. The well-known fields of Brihuega in Guadalajara and the small fields grown in some regions (Catalonia, Valencia) are mostly lavandin fields (lavandula x hybrida).
The aroma of lavender essential oil can vary considerably depending on many factors: where it is grown, the cultivation method, whether the plants are cloned or wild, altitude and so on. These factors also influence the composition of the essential oil.
The aroma of essential oil from plants grown at altitudes between 800 and 1000 metres is usually very soft and rounded. It brings calm and relaxation, comforting and soothing us.
The marked difference is striking when compared with an essential oil obtained from wild plants growing at altitudes of up to 1900 metres. The aroma is generally more intense, sometimes fruity and certainly very complex. Essential oils from wild plants tend to have a somewhat euphoric effect.

Appearance: Clear liquid, ranging from colourless to pale yellow

Solubility: Soluble in alcohol and oils. Insoluble in water

Precautions

Do not use during the first three months of pregnancy.

Taxonomy

Botanical name: Lavandula angustifolia - Family: Lamiaceae - Genus: Lavandula