There are nearly 40 species of Lavender (genus Lavandula), a member of the plant family Lamiaceae. Until recently, I had poo-pooed an oil called "Lavender 40/42" thinking it was a blend of lesser quality oils, and opted for "True Lavender," more correctly, the species called Lavendula Angustfolia or "English Lavender." I had joined the ranks of the Essential Oil Purists! However, in doing further research I have uncovered the truth about lavender oils.
The two primary aromatic compounds in lavender oil are "linalool" and "linalyl acetate." Because nature is ever-changing, fluctuations in weather conditions, soil conditions as well as cross pollination can occur. Therefore identical species of lavender plants grown in the same region can produce varying amounts of these two components from crop to crop. In an effort to achieve a consistent balance of the two aromatic components, producers of lavender oil will blend oils from two or more species, and/or grown in different regions. The purpose of the blend is to arrive at the most beneficial levels of Linalool and Linalyl acetate which is 40% and 42% respectively. That way, they and their customers will know the resulting oil will have a consistent fragrance and aromotherapeutic benefits with each batch.
I no longer look at Lavender 40/42 as an "adulterated" or low-quality essential oil. If you buy oils from a trusted source, you can rest assured that Lavender 40/42 will offer the same consistent benefits with every bottle.
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SOURCES
Essential Oil Wholesale Research Library
Everything Lavender
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