Lavender is a household name in the aromatic world. Known for its enchanting scent and medicinal properties, it is used in perfumes, cosmetics, and essential oils. Lavender has over 47 species, and French Lavender is one of the most popular types of lavender. In this article, we will explore the difference between Lavender and French Lavender, and how to identify them.
Origin of Lavender
Lavender is great for relaxing, reducing stress, and inducing sleep. It is believed to have originated from the Mediterranean, Middle East, and India. Lavender has been used in different cultures for thousands of years to cure various ailments, including respiratory problems, headaches, and pain relief from minor cuts and bruises. The botanical name for Lavender is Lavandula angustifolia.
Origin of French Lavender
French Lavender (Lavandula stoechas) is a type of lavender that is commonly found in the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Canary Islands. French Lavender is known for its characteristic flower heads, and it is used for decoration and medicinal purposes. The plant has been popular in France since Roman times, and it is commonly used by French perfume manufacturers.
Appearance of Lavender
Lavender is a woody evergreen shrub that can grow up to three feet tall. It has narrow grey-green leaves with purple flowers. The flowers of Lavender are unique in that they grow in a spike-like formation at the top of the stem. The color of the flowers can differ slightly, ranging from light purple to deep purple.
Appearance of French Lavender
French Lavender grows up to two feet tall and has narrow leaves with distinctive flowers in bunches on top of the stem. French Lavender flowerheads resemble a pineapple, the bracts are purple, and the flowers are dark.
Aroma of Lavender
Lavender has a sweet, floral, and refreshing fragrance. The scent of Lavender provides a calming and soothing effect, making it a popular ingredient in aromatherapy products. The oil extracted from Lavender is used for body massages, baths, and inhaled for relaxation.
Aroma of French Lavender
French Lavender has a more intense fragrance than Lavender, with a sweet and herbaceous scent that is often used in potpourri and sachets. The oil extracted from French Lavender is used in aromatherapy products, massage oils, and perfume.
Medicinal Properties
Lavender is known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments. Lavender has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it useful in the treatment of skin infections. It is also used to relieve anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Lavender can provide relief from menstrual cramps, and it is also used as a digestive aid.
Medicinal Properties of French Lavender
French Lavender is useful as an anti-inflammatory agent and can relieve pain and swelling. It has antihistamine properties, making it useful for allergies and respiratory problems. French Lavender is also used to treat headaches, coughs, and colds.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, Lavender and French Lavender are both highly valued for their aromatic properties and medicinal properties. While they share some similarities, they have distinct differences, including appearance, scent, and medicinal properties. Both Lavender and French Lavender have unique values and properties to offer, and the choice of which one to use depends on the intended use of the herb.
In summary, whether for your garden or health, Lavender and French Lavender are exceptionally beneficial plants to cultivate. Lavender is indigenous to the Mediterranean, Middle East, and India, while French Lavender is commonly found throughout France and North Africa. Their flowers and fragrances are similar, but French Lavender has a more intense aroma compared to Lavender. Additionally, they both have medicinal values, including relieving anxiety and depression, helping to reduce swelling and inflammation, and treating respiratory problems. Ultimately, the choice between the two mainly depends on personal preferences and the intended use of the herb.
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Last update 2023-09-26. Price and product availability may change.