Lavender essential oil has become immensely popular in recent years, and you may be wondering if there’s another option with similar benefits. Although the terms lavender and lavandin are often used interchangeably, there are some distinct differences between the two varieties that can help you choose the one that’s right for you. Here’s a quick guide to each variety and how they differ from one another so you can use them effectively in your aromatherapy practice!
What is True Lavender?
True lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a flowering plant in the mint family, native to the western Mediterranean region. The flowers and leaves are used to produce an essential oil that has a fresh, floral scent with a hint of sweetness. True lavender oil is said to have calming and relaxing properties, making it ideal for use in aromatherapy. Lavender essential oil can be diluted with a carrier oil before applying topically on sore muscles or skin.
What Is Lavandin ?
Lavandin Grosso is a hybrid of true lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia). It is a popular choice for many because it is less expensive than true lavender and has a more potent fragrance. However, some people find the scent to be too strong and prefer the more subtle scent of true lavender. When choosing between the two, it really comes down to personal preference.
So, which one should you choose?