LAVENDER - high-grade 40/42. Lavandula angustifolia. This Hi-Grade Lavender is extensively used by Aromatherapists and in the manufacture of quality aromatherapy products because it is guaranteed to have a 40/42 ester balance, which in lay terms means it smells nice, and always smells the same, time after time. The ester content of true lavender varies greatly depending on the weather, the soil, when harvested, etc. etc. and most lavenders are blended to ensure the quality. Use as one would ordinary Lavender.

LAVENDER - FRENCH. Lavandula stoechas. Purists would insist that French Lavender must be the Lavandula variety stoechas. In fact one British company had Trading Standards prosecute ALL the other Aromatherapy companies in Britain for selling French Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) which they had bought from France and were selling as French Lavender, not because of any ethical reason but because they hoped to benefit financially from this ungentlemanly conduct. People in the Aromatherapy industry have long memories and they will regret that action one day. The Lavandula stoechas variety is in fact rarely used because it tends to have a harsh top note, most Aromatherapists preferring the Lavandula angustifolia variety, or for real quality the Alpine variety or the recently introduced Lavender Absolute. The real irony is that the French Lavender stoechas and Lavandula vera grow best in England and the French people buy them as superior English Lavender.

LAVENDER - HIGH ALPINE MOUNTAIN. Lavandula angustifolia. Because it is grown in stressful conditions high in the mountains it tends to have a very high ester content and has a superb clean fresh aroma. Use as one would ordinary Lavender, sparingly.

LAVENDER - SPIKE. Lavandula latifolia. Tends to have a higher camphor content than the other Lavender oils which makes it very good in penetrative massage. The essential oil is for EXTERNAL USE ONLY and it should always be diluted with a suitable carrier oil such as Sweet Almond Oil before applying to the skin. Keep it away from children and pets. It is non-toxic and non-irritant but with possible sensitization in some individuals. Use as for Lavender. (Also known as Aspic, Broad-Leaved Lavender, Lavandula spica, Lesser Lavender, Spike.)

LAVENDER ABSOLUTE. Lavandula angustifolia. Beautiful emerald green colour with a very powerful fresh aroma. Use sparingly as one would ordinary Lavender.