Spike lavender vs. True lavender

Spike lavender (Lavandula Latifolia) and True Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia) are two different species of the same genus of plants. Spike lavender and lavender differ in their growing conditions, composition, aroma, and properties. But they also share many traits.

Lavender oil is one of the most popular oils used in aromatherapy and perfumery. It has a distinct, gently floral, sweet aroma. The purple flowers grow well in the Mediterranean region of Europe, parts of northern Africa, the UK, and also in southeast Asia.

Spike lavender naturally grows in slightly lower altitudes compared to true lavender but in similar regions of the world. It is commonly also known as Portuguese lavender and the flowers have a more spiky appearance compared to true lavender.

Spike lavender naturally contains a higher percentage of compounds 1,8-Cineole and Camphor than lavender. This gives spike lavender a slightly more medicinal and camphoraceous aroma, similar to that of eucalyptus oil. This unique aroma and composition are reported to give spike lavender properties that facilitate better breathing and reduced congestion.

Spike lavender and lavender both contain high amounts of Linalool and Linalyl acetate which have been reported to possess calming and stress-relieving effects. They are both excellent essential oils to use in aromatherapy and are very versatile to blend with other scents such as sandalwood oil or cedarwood atlas oil.