ABSTRACT

There are large numbers of Lavandula species, hybrids and cultivars growing all over the world. The main uses for them is based on their aroma as they are used in a variety of perfumes, soaps, creams as well as for their decorative and odorant qualities (as dried lavender bunches) or in scented cushions to ensure relaxation and promote better sleep. For the perfumery and other odorant products, true lavender, Lavandula angustifolia is favoured, closely followed by its hybrids L. x intermedia, which includes cultivars like ‘Grosso’ and ‘Abrialii’ in the commercial essential oil market. All these contain linalool and linalyl acetate as their main components. The more camphoraceous L. latifolia, or spike oil, is not widely used in the products listed above, but can be used in some food products and household cleaners and has had a greater medicinal usage than L. angustifolia in the past.