Lavender has been used since ancient times for its many medicinal and aromatic properties. But what many do not know is that there are several species, each with its own characteristics. Here are four main types of lavender and their most outstanding benefits.
Lavandula latifolia (Espliego)
This type of lavender has a stronger, camphoraceous scent. It is especially effective as a natural antimicrobial and analgesic.
Common uses and practical applications:
The essential oil of lavender is very useful to treat skin problems such as juvenile acne, psoriasis or dry eczema. It is also recommended for burns and insect bites such as bees, wasps or mosquitoes. In aromatherapy, its fast action allows to soothe and heal almost immediately severe burns or painful bites.
Therapeutic properties:
- Antimicrobial medium
- Antitoxic
- Antiviral
- Immune stimulant
- Excellent fungicide
- Anticatarrhal and expectorant
- Anti-allergic and analgesic
Traditional indications:
- Painful sores
- Ulcers, bedsores, psoriasis
- Cutaneous mycosis (athlete’s foot)
- Genital mycosis, candida
- Wasp, jellyfish, scorpion stings
- Bronquitis, laringitis, sinusitis, otitis
- Influenza and febrile states
- Nervous asthenia
Lavandula angustifolia (Lavander)
Known as the “queen” of aromatherapy, this lavender is gentle and very versatile. It is used both to calm the mind and to care for the skin.
Common uses and practical applications:
It is especially effective against insomnia, hypertension or stress. It is also used in cases of arrhythmias, psoriasis, urticaria and skin conditions. In aromatherapy, two drops on the pillow or on the neck of the pajamas promote a deep and restful sleep. In addition, its scent repels moths and perfumes closets naturally.
Therapeutic properties:
- Powerful antispasmodic
- Soothing, sedative and antidepressant
- Powerful healing
- Skin regenerator
- Analgesic
- Hypotensive, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiseptic
Traditional indications:
- Cramps and contractures
- Stress, anxiety, insomnia, depression, etc.
- Acne, eczema, burns, psoriasis, etc.
- Ulcers and dermatitis
- Hypertension, arrhythmias
- Migraine headaches, nausea, digestive disorders
Lavandula hybrida (Lavandín)
Lavandin is a hybrid between lavender and lavender. It has a high production of essential oil and is widely used in cosmetics and physiotherapy.
Common uses and practical applications:
It is used in the treatment of headaches, colitis, bruises, erythema nodosum, lice and rheumatism. Its essential oil is highly valued in sports physiotherapy massages for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also ideal for relaxing baths or environmental diffusion, promoting physical and emotional well-being.
Therapeutic properties:
- Powerful antispasmodic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Cicatrizant, vulnerary
- Calming, relaxing, sedative
- Antiseptic
Traditional indications:
- Hypertension
- Palpitations, extrasystoles
- Cramps and contractures
- Depressive states, migraine headaches, headaches
- Dermatitis, sores, allergies
- Insomnia, sleep disturbances
- Burns, bedsores
Lavandula stoechas (Cantueso)
It is a lesser known but very useful variety, especially in traditional preparations to treat respiratory and digestive infections.
Common uses and practical applications:
Lavender is used as an infusion to treat fevers, respiratory congestion or difficult digestion. It is recommended to boil 30 g of flowers in 1 liter of water, strain and sweeten with honey if desired. Its flowers are also distilled to obtain a homemade syrup or a preparation for washing wounds by adding a few drops of essential oil in water.
Therapeutic properties:
- Antiseptic
- Helps fight fever
- Soothes the chest and bronchial tubes
- Antispasmodic
- Healing
Traditional indications:
- To clean and heal sores and wounds
- Vapours for flus and nervous problems
- Headaches and stomachaches
- Slow digestion
Each type of lavender has a different therapeutic profile. Knowing its properties allows you to choose the most suitable for every need: from treating a burn to soothing the mind or caring for the skin.
A small world of possibilities in a single flower!
