A symbol of tranquillity, lavender has been used for homoeopathic and aromatic purposes for centuries.
From Egyptian perfumes and ancient Roman baths to Victorian scent bags and sachets, the aromatic uses of the violet-hued flowering plant throughout history are wide-ranging. But when exactly were the swirling scents of lavender combined with wellness practices?
According to North Carolina State University, Greek physician, pharmacologist and botanist, Dioscorides praised the medicinal attributes of lavender in the first century A.D. Meanwhile, during the Middle Ages lavender was praised as a ‘herb of love’ and was therefore considered an aphrodisiac. During plague times, lavender was strewn across sick room floors to fumigate and help disinfect the air.
The characteristic, sweet-smelling bloom is beloved for its near-instant ability to soothe and relax. The scent is fresh, floral and herbal with hints of woodsy musk which help to ground individuals while elevating tranquillity.
What is a lavender essential oil?
There are over 400 types of lender species worldwide which can be distilled to obtain essential oil. The most common strains used commercially are Provence and English lavender.
What are the benefits of lavender essential oil?
According to the National Institute of Health, lavender is well-known for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anxiety-reducing and anti-toxic properties. The bloom has also been known to have a significant anti-inflammatory effect and has been used to help treat dermatitis and eczema. Perhaps the most popular use of lavender essential oil is for aromatherapy and as a sleep aid.
Keep scrolling for a selection of the best lavender essential oils on the market.
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Lavender Essential Oil 10ml
A paragon of aromatherapy excellence, Neal’s Yard is a go-to when it comes to purchasing pure essential oils. This vegan-approved, 10ml bottle contains Lavandula angustifolia from France and is distilled from its flowers and leaves.
The brand recommends blending this oil with clary sage and marjoram for out-of-this-world aromatherapy. If you prefer the scent of English lavender, the label has got you covered on that front too.
Buy now £12.00, Neal’s Yard
Neom Perfect Night's Sleep Essential Oil Blend
Known for its dedicated sleep blends, the Perfect Night’s Sleep essential oil from Neom is sure to have you out like a light. Containing a beautiful, tranquillity-inducing mixture of English lavender, sweet basil and jasmine, a few drops of this oil before bed on your pressure points or your pillow will give you the sweetest of dreams.
Buy now £22.00, Naturismo
Miaroma Lavender Pure Essential Oil 10ml
Ideal for massage, bathing and aromatherapy, Miaroma’s lavender essential oil is a budget-friendly option that is bound to have you coming back for more. The brand recommends diluting 4-6 drops for every 20ml of base oil before use.
Buy now £6.50, Holland & Barrett
Tisserand Lavender Essential Oil
Tisserand’s signature blend produces a floral, powdery and sweet scent. The 100 per cent lavender oil is extracted from steam distillation with a consistency that is thin and colourless. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a more delicate and minimal application.
Buy now £8.50, Tisserand
Nikura French Lavender Essential Oil - 100ml
An extra-large option for lavender enthusiasts and aromatherapy professionals, Nikura’s pure French lavender oil is ethically sourced and cruelty-free. The 100ml bottle can be used for everything from candle and soap-making to massage, bathing and potpourri.
Buy now £12.99, Amazon
Erbology Lavender Essential Oil
Ethically harvested and 100 per cent pure, Erbology’s lavender essential oil can be diluted with the brand’s beloved organic, cold-pressed almond oil for sumptuously soft and sweet-smelling skin. It comes in a recyclable amber glass bottle and contains zero preservatives or additives.
Buy now £9.99, Amazon
De Mamiel Altitude Oil
This luxury essential oil has been designed with anxious travellers in mind. Described by de Mamiel as “smelling salts for the modern age”, this anti-sickness and anxiety-reducing miracle oil is crafted from a beautiful blend of lavender, eucalyptus, fragonia and pine.
Buy now £35.00, Cult Beauty
Cornish Lavender Essential oil Reed Diffuser
Those looking to enjoy the beautiful aromas of lavender throughout their entire home may look no further than Anatome’s powerful essential oil reed diffuser. Blended with Cornish lavender, jasmine and vetiver for the utmost tranquillity and relaxation, this diffuser is set to transform your living space for the better.
Buy now £68.00, Anatome
