Lavender essential oil is one of the most popular botanicals oils in the world due to its soothing aroma. The herb itself has long been used to scent bath water, which earned the plant its common name that was taken from the Latin word lavare for “to wash.” Today, the oil is widely used in aromatherapy and massage and in the cosmetic and fragrance industries.
The oil contains more than 150 compounds that make it so versatile. The antispasmodic effects of lavender essential oil is due to a high concentration of esters. Other phytochemicals, most notably linalool, limonene, geraniol and 1,8-cineole, are responsible for its antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.