Spike Lavender
Lavandula latifolia
A camphor-and-cineole-rich lavender species prized for respiratory clearing, mental stimulation, and analgesic applications, offering a sharper, more invigorating profile than true lavender.
Aroma Profile
Crisp, camphoraceous, herbaceous-floral with penetrating eucalyptus-like brightness and a resinous herbal depth, distinctly more medicinal and less sweet than true lavender.
Strength: strong
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Therapeutic Properties
Chemistry
Primary Constituents
1,8-cineole (28-35%), linalool (27-44%), camphor (10-23%), borneol (1-4%), alpha-pinene (1-3%), beta-pinene (1-3%)
Emotional & Psychological
More stimulating than true lavender, it lifts mental fatigue, clears psychic confusion, and restores cognitive focus during long work, study, or recovery from illness. While its floral base remains balancing, the camphor-cineole profile makes it better suited to daytime clarity and motivation than evening relaxation, providing uplift without the jittery quality of pure stimulant oils like rosemary camphor.
Physical Therapeutic Uses
Classically used for burns, insect bites, respiratory congestion, sinusitis, bronchitis, and muscular pain. Its oxide content makes it excellent for productive coughs and chest colds, while linalool provides gentle analgesic and skin-healing action. Spanish aromatherapy traditions favor it for joint pain, headaches, and wound care, and it is frequently chosen for blends requiring stronger respiratory action than true lavender can provide.
Safety Profile
Contraindications
Avoid with epilepsy, young children under 10, and in first trimester pregnancy. Caution with asthma.
Drug Interactions
No significant documented interactions at standard dilutions.
Pet Safety Notes
Not safe for cats. Use caution with dogs due to camphor and cineole; avoid direct application and ensure diffusion is well ventilated.
Application Methods
How to Use This Oil
middle note — the heart of a blend. Provides body and balance. Emerges after the top note fades.
Common Ways to Use
Diffusion
Add 3-5 drops to a diffuser with water. Run for 30-60 minutes at a time with breaks. Ensure good ventilation.
Topical Application
Dilute to No Tisserand restriction in a carrier oil (jojoba, sweet almond, or coconut). Apply to desired area. Always patch test first.
Direct Inhalation
Add 1-2 drops to a tissue or personal inhaler. Breathe in gently. Good for quick relief and on-the-go use.
Massage
Blend at No Tisserand restriction dilution in a massage carrier oil. Apply with gentle strokes to the desired area.
Bath
Mix 4-6 drops with a tablespoon of carrier oil or bath salts before adding to warm bath water. Never add undiluted oil directly to bath.
Compress
Add 3-4 drops to a bowl of warm or cool water. Soak a cloth, wring out, and apply to the affected area for 15-20 minutes.