Lavandula officinalis (or angustifolia) is a member of the Lamiaceae family, commonly known as the mint family. It includes a wide range (over 7000 species!) of well-known herbs such as basil, thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Many of these plants, including lavender, are grown for their culinary and medicinal properties because their leaves and/or flowers contain copious amounts of essential oils. For this reason, they are also classified as aromatics. Lavender officinalis is native to the Mediterranean regions. Today, there are over 45 species of lavender and over 450 varieties that are cultivated throughout the world. It is a perennial, evergreen shrub with woody stems and purple flowers that bloom in late spring through early autumn depending on the geographic location. The flowers and flowering tops are harvested depending on the intended use.
Rooted in the Latin, lavare, to wash, lavender has a long history of use across cultures. In Egypt, it was documented as part of the mummification process. During the Renaissance, it was an ingredient in what is now referred to as Four Thieves Vinegar, a prophylactic wash to protect against the plague. In France, and maybe your kitchen, it is integral to the much-beloved herbs de Provence seasoning blend. Ayurvedic traditions view lavender as calming to the vata (relaxes and restores the nervous system) and cooling to the pitta (anti-inflammatory). In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is used, among other actions, to calm and support heart Qi (energy) and to cool an overheated liver. Today, in the United States, it is perhaps the most widely recognized herb and is found in everything from household cleaners and body products to marinades and baked goods. Globally, it is the number one selling essential oil.
Traditional systems of western herbalism revere lavender for its versatility and safety profile. Its broad range of therapeutic effects includes but is not limited to anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, nervine, anti-viral, antiseptic, vulnerary, anti-depressant, and carminative. It is found in formulas that promote sleep, soothe the stomach, lift depression, relieve inflammatory skin conditions, and to ease symptoms related to colds and flu. It is well-regarded as being a gentle, fortifying tonic for the nervous system and can be used regularly to build resilience and protect against nervous exhaustion. Common forms of consumption include tisane (tea) and tincture, as well as various topical preparations prepared with infused or essential oils. The flowers can be incorporated into herbal smoking blends and the essential oils can be diffused into living spaces to foster relaxation for children and adults.
The therapeutic benefits of lavender can be in part attributed to its terpene content. Terpenes are volatile, organic compounds that contribute to a plant’s aroma and taste as well as performing functions within its immune system. Some of the primary terpenes found in lavender are linalool, b-caryophyllene, d-limonene, and ocimene. All of these are also found in cannabis. Knowing which terpenes are in various cannabis cultivars can help you understand their potential therapeutic effects. Linalool, for instance, is known for being calming and sedating. Cannabis cultivars that contain high levels of linalool can therefore potentially be better choices for addressing sleep disorders or nervous conditions. Understanding terpene content can also assist you in determining which companion botanicals might best combine with cannabis for effective herbal formulations.
Our Relax Aromatic CBD Roll-On is a soothing combination of lavender, bergamot, and marjoram essential oils married with botanically-sourced terpenes representing the aromatic and therapeutic profile of Skunk #1, a tried and true Indica dominant cannabis cultivar known for its relaxing qualities. Applied topically, the oils and terpenes in this blend have a long-standing reputation for relieving pain and inflammation. Aromatically, they are known for their powerful sedative and stress-reducing qualities.
Take a look at our Relax category when you shop by effect on our website. How many products can you find with lavender as an active ingredient?
The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product.