Our High-Elevation Lavender, produced from flowers naturally grown in the mountain regions of France, is considered the most exquisite of this variety. It is the same plant species as other Lavenders, simply extracted from specimens grown in its native higher elevations where the plant tends to produce the greatest amount of the fragrant oil. Lavender grown at high altitudes also tend to produce more 'linalool', a natural constituent of many essential oils that has been the subject of many studies involving improved sleep, lowering anxiety and lessening stress. We've sampled several Lavenders, and found this one to be very 'complete', with a great depth to its aroma. Its aroma is somewhat more earthy compared to our wildcrafed variety.

Lavender in general is the most versatile aromatic oil used in aromatherapy today, often called 'medicine chest in a bottle' - no wonder it is suggested it be included in every aromatherapy kit. The essential oil is a nearly colorless, with a fragrant, sweet floral-herbaceous scent and a slight woody undertone. Lavender blends well with most oils, especially citrus like Sweet Orange, florals like Ylang Ylang and Geranium, and with woody scents like Cedarwood, and Pine.

Lavender oil is highly regarded for it's relaxing effect on the nervous system, with an overall balancing effect on the mind and the emotions. Besides being versatile, its lightly floral and soothing scent is one that most people find appealing, and is often used as a perfume. It's also one of the few essential oils that can be safely applied neat in all situations (i.e. without being diluted in a carrier oil - another notable exception being Roman Chamomile). Applying directly to the feet can have a wonderful calming effect on many individuals. Adding to a foot bath can have a marked effect on relieving fatigue. Lavender has been studied for its ability to help restful, deep sleep; one clinical report noted Lavender oil to be better than Valium in helping folks get a good night's rest. One can diffuse Lavender in their bedroom or just sprinkle a few drops on the sheets for this effect.

Lavender is one of the few oils still listed in the British Pharmacopoeia; it is highly regarded for it's ability to promote tissue regeneration and speed wound healing in some cases. This oil truly began the modern essential oil revolution - It was in the middle of the last century that the term 'Aromatherapy' was coined by French cosmetic chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse - Dr. Gattefosse discovered the healing properties of Lavender when, after burning his hands in a laboratory accident, he submersed them in the flower's essential oil. His amazingly speedy recovery prompted him to write his book 'Aromatherapy' in 1937. Now we don't recommend you try this at home - though we'd love to hear of your ways you enjoy this wonderful oil!

Lavender is one of the most simple essential oils to gain benefits from. It is most often used in a diffuser for improved sleep, but it is just as simple to sprinkle a few drops of the oil on the bedsheets before retiring. Use just one drop under the pillow for children. Lavender is also a perfect oil to have with you throughout the day ~ we've noticed a quick and significant change in attitudes under stressfull situations after inhaling its aroma. Lavender has a very healing effect on skin as well; it seems the same soothing it brings to the mind and emotions also happens to the skin. It can be used 'neat' (undiluted) to immediately reduce the pain of burns, mixed 50:50 with Tea Tree for an excellent soothing anti-ceptic (apply directly or onto a band-aid). It is also called for in many skin and hair recipies at concentrations between 1% and 3%.