How to Use Spike Lavender Oil
There are so many different types of lavender! Maybe you're a little bit stressed out by all the choices. But wait -- isn't lavender supposed to make you feel less anxious? Yes, it is! So let's take a step back and focus on just one type of lavender that is often overlooked: Spike Lavender.
What is Spike Lavender?
When people talk about lavender essential oil, they're likely referring to the oil extracted from Lavendula angustifolia (sometimes referred to as "True Lavender"). Spike Lavender essential oil, on the other hand, is extracted from the flowering tops of Lavendula latifolia. Both Lavendula angustifolia and Lavendula latifolia are native to the mediterranean region, but the former generally grows at higher elevations than the latter. Spike Lavender oil has a floral, spicy and camphoraceous aroma which sets it apart from the traditional lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia), which has softer and smoother tones.
Spike Lavender's camphor-like smell is (not surprisingly) a result of its high camphor content, which sets it apart from other lavender varieties. Spike Lavender also contains a relatively high amount of 1,8-Cineole, a compound found in eucalyptus oil. These chemical characteristics make Spike Lavender an especially useful essential oil for respiratory support and pain relief. Spike Lavender is also popular during the cold and flu season since it has analgesic, antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiseptic properties.
While some people find Spike Lavender to be a calming oil, it is generally not as relaxing as Lavendula angustifolia. In fact, many people find it to be somewhat stimulating. Spike Lavender supports circulation and stimulates blood flow, making it useful for finding focus and harnessing energy. Because of its circulatory and antiseptic properties, Spike Lavender is a popular oil for skincare and is commonly used in soap-making. Its antispasmodic and circulatory properties also make Spike Lavender a great oil for cramps and headaches.
Lavender blends nicely with most oils, but Spike's sharp, camphor tones blend particularly well with Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Frankincense, and Ravensara.
In addition to all these therapeutic properties, Spike Lavender is also used as a painting solvent! Some artists prefer it to turpentine and mineral spirits because it is non-toxic, effective and smells great! You can read more about using spike lavender as a painting solvent here.
Spike Lavender has so many great properties so I'd like to provide a few recipes for reaping all the benefits this oil has to offer!
Recipes with Spike Lavender:
Since it's already mid-November, let's see how Spike Lavender can be of use during cold and flu season. In general, Spike Lavender's high 1,8-cineole content makes it a great oil for aromatic diffusion or steam inhalation to purify air and open airways. More specifically, here's a blend that I find helpful for sinus headaches and a recipe for making your own vapor rub:
Sinus Headache Blend:
6 drops Spike Lavender
3 drops Frankincense
4 drops Eucalyptus Globulus
2 drops Peppermint
Dilute in carrier oil of choice and rub into temples and neck. Alternatively, use this blend in a diffuser or aromatherapy inhaler without diluting!
Natural Vapor Rub:
Melt a heaping 1 cup of coconut oil over low heat and let sit for a few minutes to cool. Add the following oils:
15 drops Peppermint
20 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
10 drops Lemon essential oil
15 drops Spike Lavender essential oil
8 drops Tea Tree essential oil
and stir well and let cool completely. I usually use this on the chest area to relieve congestion. Keep in mind that essential oils are potent and everyone reacts differently to essential oils. I'd recommend testing this rub on a small patch of skin before liberal application. Note: As some of these oils are strong, we don't recommend this rub for children.
Because of its high levels of camphor and circulatory properties, spike lavender is one of my favorite essential oils for soothing sore muscles. Here's a massage blend I like to use after a particularly strenuous workout:
Massage Oil for Sore Muscles:
Mix the following oils into 2 oz. of your favorite carrier oil or massage base (try ours here!) to create a warming and soothing oil for your sore muscles.
5 drops Spike Lavender
3 drops Peppermint
3 drops Rosemary
1 drop Clary Sage
Finally, here's a recipe that really highlights spike lavender's antiseptic and antibacterial properties:
Lavender and Lemon Household Cleanser:
1 1/2 cups water
1 cup white vinegar
15 drops Spike Lavender oil
25 drops Lemon essential oil
Mix all ingredients together and pour into spray bottle. If you want your cleanser to be a little stronger, try using equal parts vinegar and water.
Let us know how you use Spike Lavender!
If you'd like to read more about Spike Lavender, www.aromahead.com has some great articles!
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only, and not intended to treat, prescribe, cure, or diagnose any disease or condition. This information is not intended as a substitute for consulting with your physician or other health care provider. Dreaming Earth Botanicals is not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed. All matters pertaining to your physical health should be supervised by a health care professional. Keep all aromatherapy products out of reach of children.