USES OF LAVENDER AND LAVANDIN (AND ROSEMARY)

‘Lavender’ is often used as a general name to cover both lavender and lavandin but, because they have distinct individual characteristics, it is important to understand the difference. Be clear on which you want, and why, and always check the product labelling! Ask if in doubt – we will be delighted to advise.

KENTISH LAVENDER OIL

Extracted from Lavandula angustifolia ‘Maillette’, our pure lavender oil is valued for its medicinal and soothing attributes as well as its fine fragrance. It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, can act as a mild anaesthetic and has traditionally been associated with remedies for soothing headaches and tension. It is therefore in high demand for use in aromatherapy, perfumery, skincare products and pharmaceuticals.

• Relax with a few drops in the bath or on a pillow.
• Massage gently into the forehead to help soothe headaches.
• Use (with a base oil) in aromatherapy massages to help relieve muscular tension and painful joints or to induce relaxation.
• Massages with lavender oil can be especially helpful to both patients and carers in cases of illness or dementia.
• Put in an oil burner to purify the air – the volatile oils are highly effective at killing airborne bacteria.
• Use as a traditional remedy for burns and sunburn.
• The anti-inflammatory and mild anaesthetic properties are useful in treating stings.
• Put a few drops on pets’ bedding to calm them, especially during transport.

For more product information see Kentish Lavender Oil, Kentish Lavender Massage Oil, Kentish Lavender Hand cream.

KENTISH LAVANDIN OIL

Extracted from Lavandula x intermedia ‘Grosso’, a high-yielding variety, lavandin oil has a different chemical profile with about 10–12% camphor. This gives it a powerful uplifting scent and it can act as a mild stimulant. Therapeutically it can be an aid to breathing and the camphor also makes it an effective moth and mosquito repellent. Its uses are therefore in candles, soaps and toiletries, room and linen scents, and therapies for easing breathing or tired, aching muscles. It is NOT appropriate for a relaxing bedtime bath!

• Inhale a few drops on a handkerchief to help clear a stuffy nose, dispel sleepiness or aid concentration.
• Massage (with a base oil) into aching, tired muscles.
• Add to washing powder to scent clothes or bedlinen.
• Deter flies by painting onto window glass.
• Rub into wrists and ankles as a mosquito repellent.
• Use on pets’ bedding or in grooming routines to deter mites and fleas.
• Add to candles at summer barbecues.
• Use to revitalise pot pourri or room scents.
• Use to flavour chocolate.

Try our Kentish Lavandin Oil, Lavandin candles, Lavandin soap and Lavandin, Rosemary and Thyme Room Spray.

NB. Unlike most essential oils, lavender and lavandin can be used direct on the skin: nevertheless they are powerful and should not be used in excess.

ROSEMARY OIL

Kentish Rosemary oil is also produced by steam distillation and has a wonderfully invigorating, stimulating scent. With a higher content of camphor than lavandin, it is even better as an insect repellent, for clearing a stuffy head or for waking you up when you’re feeling drowsy! It is traditionally used in hair treatments (try our Rosemary and Nettle Shampoo bar) and is a major ingredient in our Lavandin, Rosemary and Thyme Room Spray. Like lavender, it has antiseptic properties and so is popular in hand-cleansing Rosemary Soap.