Lavender essential oil

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavandula angustifolia

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a floral essential oil with a soft, floral, herbal aroma and a heart note. Steam distillation from flowering tops, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Cedarwood (Atlas), Bergamot (FCF), Frankincense (Carterii). For topical use, keep dilution at or below 20%.

Aroma & character

Aroma

softfloralherbal

Traditional aromatherapy associations

calmingsleepstress

Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.

Properties

Perfumery noteHeart
Aroma familyFloral
Chemical familyEster
Material typeEssential oil
ExtractionSteam distillation
Plant partflowering tops
OriginFrance, Bulgaria, UK
Blending factor7
Volatility index3
Tenacity (hours)6.0
CAS number8000-28-0

Safety & dilution

Max topical dilution20%
Max facial dilution5%
PregnancyGenerally suitable when properly diluted
NursingGenerally suitable when properly diluted
ChildrenGenerally suitable, well diluted
CatsGenerally suitable when properly diluted
DogsGenerally suitable when properly diluted

Evidence: Strong — Koulivand et al., 2013 -- published lavender research review.

For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.

Not sure how much to use? Try the free dilution calculator.

Blends well with

Used in these blends

Compare Lavender with

Frequently asked questions

What does Lavender essential oil smell like?

Lavender has a soft, floral, herbal aroma, classed as a floral oil with a heart note.

What is the safe dilution for Lavender?

For topical use, keep Lavender at or below 20%, and 5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.

Is Lavender safe to use during pregnancy?

Lavender is generally considered suitable during pregnancy when properly diluted. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.

Is Lavender safe to use around children?

Lavender is generally considered suitable for children when well diluted. Consult a professional for young children.

Is Lavender safe around pets?

For cats — generally lower-risk when well diluted and diffused sparingly; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.

What does Lavender blend well with?

Lavender pairs well with Cedarwood (Atlas), Bergamot (FCF), Frankincense (Carterii), Geranium, Blood Orange.