Spike Lavender and Lavender- Differences You Need to Know
Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) is commonly used in perfumes and soaps and is very popular in the essential oil community. You may be familiar with its soothing floral scent and bright purple color. Lavandula latifolia (spike lavender) is a lesser-known species that is very similar to the lavender plant, but contains different components. Understanding these differences can help you to utilize these oils effectively.
Spike Lavender
Spike lavender has a noticeably different smell from true lavender. When analyzed closely, the components it contains are different as well. The major components of spike lavender are:
Linalool
Spike lavender and lavender do share linalool as a major component, and in both plants it is the most abundantly found. This is, however, the only major monoterpene that lavender and spike lavender share. Research conducted on this active compound suggests that it may be a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.
Eucalyptol
As the second most abundant component of the spike lavender plant, eucalyptol is an important difference between lavender and spike lavender. This monoterpenoid has been researched heavily for uses in chronic diseases like respiratory disease, pancreatitis, colon damage, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. This research suggests that it may be useful as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Camphor
Camphor is yet another component of spike lavender that is not shared with lavender, but contains beneficial properties you need to know about. Research on this specific compound suggests that it may help to relieve pain when applied topically.
Here at The Original Oil Shop, we add spike lavender to our signature CBD Happy Relief blend so you can benefit from it's suggested anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties in addition to the wonderful benefits of CBD.