Lavandin oil is an essential oil extracted from the flowering tops of Lavandula x intermedia, a commercially cultivated hybrid. Known for its intense, clean scent, this aromatic oil is widely used in the commercial fragrance and home product industries. It is generally more cost-effective to produce than true lavender oil, contributing significantly to its popularity in mass-market products.
Hybrid Origin and Production
Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia) is a sterile hybrid, naturally crossing True Lavender (L. angustifolia) and Spike Lavender (L. latifolia). This hybridization occurred where the parent plants grew at different altitudes, allowing cross-pollination. The lavandin plant is more robust than true lavender, developing a larger structure with multiple flower heads per stem.
This robust growth is directly linked to its high oil yield, making it an economically valuable crop for large-scale production. The oil is extracted from the fresh flowering spikes using steam distillation. Due to the plant’s size and high oil content, the amount of essential oil produced per hectare is significantly greater than true lavender. This high yield and ease of cultivation are the primary reasons lavandin varieties, such as ‘Grosso,’ dominate the commercial market.
Key Differences from True Lavender Oil
The distinction between lavandin oil and true lavender oil lies in their chemical compositions, which dictate their scent and properties. True lavender oil contains high levels of linalool and linalyl acetate, creating a soft, sweet, and purely floral aroma. Conversely, lavandin oil contains a higher concentration of camphor, often ranging from 6% to 10% or more, while true lavender contains less than 0.6% camphor.
This elevated camphor content gives lavandin a sharper, more penetrating, and distinctly herbaceous scent profile. The presence of camphor and 1,8-cineole makes the oil more stimulating and less suitable for deep relaxation compared to the calming effects of true lavender. For example, the invigorating notes in lavandin can counteract the sedative qualities often sought when using true lavender to promote sleep. This chemical difference also means lavandin oil is less gentle on the skin and should not be used on burns, unlike true lavender.
Practical Uses and Application Methods
Due to its strong, lasting aroma and lower production cost, lavandin oil is heavily utilized in industrial and commercial applications. It is a favored fragrance component in cleaning products, including detergents, household cleaners, and soaps, where its robust scent effectively masks other odors. The oil is also valued in industrial fragrances and is sometimes used as an insect repellent.
For home use, lavandin oil can be diffused to freshen a space or create a stimulating atmosphere, rather than a deeply relaxing one. Dilution is necessary for topical use. When applied to the skin, it must be mixed with a carrier oil to minimize irritation, particularly due to its higher camphor content. A small skin patch test is advisable before widespread application.