What does the word lavender mean?
The word "lavender" comes from the Latin lavare, meaning "to wash". This name is linked to the plant's ancient use in baths for its disinfectant and purifying properties. Lavender originated in the Mediterranean region and is now grown in many parts of the world for its aromatic and medicinal properties.
In the beginning…
Lavender has been cultivated since ancient times, when it was used by the Romans to scent their baths. In the Middle Ages, lavender was used to repel insects and scent clothes and bedding. Over the centuries, lavender has become a symbolic plant of southern France, where it has been cultivated since the 18th century. Lavender also played an important role during the First World War, when it was used to disinfect soldiers' wounds.
Lavender is a plant of the Lamiaceae family, which grows wild in the mountainous regions of the Mediterranean Rim. It is widespread in France, Spain, Italy and the Balkans. Lavender requires little water and can withstand high summer temperatures. It has therefore been cultivated for centuries in the hot, dry regions of southern Europe.
Lavender cultivation developed in the South of France from the 18th century onwards, where it became an important part of the local economy. The Grasse region in the French Alpes-Maritimes became famous for the production of lavender-based perfumes. Today, lavender is grown in many parts of the world, including New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and South America. Lavender cultivation continues to be an important activity in many regions, where it helps to maintain local employment and preserve biodiversity.
Lavender Cultivation
Lavender is mainly grown in the Mediterranean regions, particularly in the French Riviera (France), where it has become a symbol of the region. It is also grown in other countries such as Bulgaria, Croatia, Spain, Greece and New Zealand, where the climatic conditions and soil are favorable for its cultivation.
Planting lavender is an activity that contributes not only to the local economy but also to environmental conservation. Lavender is a plant that attracts bees and other pollinators, making it an asset for biodiversity. In addition, the production of lavender-based perfumes and essential oils is an industry that continues to grow, due to the increasing popularity of aromatherapy and the ever-growing demand for natural products.
Lavender is one perennial plant that generally grows in sunny climates with well-drained soil. After planting seeds or seedlings, lavender develops into upright stems with narrow, silvery leaves. During the growing season, the plant produces beautiful, aromatic violet or blue flowers, attracting bees and giving off a characteristic, soothing scent.
Furthermore, lavender is harvested in summer, usually between June and August, when the flowers are at their peak. The farmers have to be meticulous when picking the flowers. They use special tools such as scissors or lavender combs to preserve the quality of the plant. The flowers are then dried before being used in the production of perfumes, essential oils and other products derived from lavender.
What did you know about lavender in perfumery?
The lavender scent is characterized as delicate, floral and slightly powdery, evoking soft, green and slightly sweet notes that recall the flower itself.
In perfumery, the treatment and processing of lavender is a crucial stage in the production of perfumes and essential oils. Dried flowers are steam-distilled to extract the essential oil, which is then filtered and purified to remove impurities. Lavender fragrances are often created by blending lavender perfume oil with other essential oils or solvents. The final products are then bottled and labeled for sale.
In perfumery, lavender belongs to the Fern family. Its olfactory accords with lavender are often combined with citrus, wood and spicy notes to create complex, balanced fragrances. Lavender is often used as a top note, meaning it is the first scent perceived when the perfume is applied. It may be combined with notes of bergamot, lemon or orange to create a fresh, energizing scent.
Lavender could also be used as a heart note, combined with notes of rose, jasmine or cedarwood, to create a more intense, sensual fragrance. Lavender fragrances are often considered versatile and can be worn on any occasion, whether for a day's work or a romantic evening.
The different varieties of lavender
There are several species of lavender, including some of the best known:
• Lavandula angustifolia (True Lavender): Also known as the English Lavender . This is the lavender most commonly grown and used in perfumery. It has violet or blue flowers and emits a sweet, soothing floral fragrance.
• Lavandula stoechas (Butterfly lavender): Recognisable by its purple or pink bracts that resemble rabbit ears, this french lavender has a powerful fragrance and blooms in spikes.
• Lavandula intermedia (Lavandin): Used in perfumery, this is a hybrid between true lavender and spike lavender. Lavandin is grown in large quantities for the production of essential oil and has a stronger, more camphorated fragrance than true lavender.
• Lavandula latifolia (Spike lavender): This species of lavender is appreciated for its fresh, medicinal scent. It is also used for its therapeutic properties.
INTERESTING FACT!
In addition to its soothing olfactory properties, lavender is also known for its many therapeutic benefits. Lavender essential oil is often used to relieve muscle and joint pain, reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep and soothe headaches and migraines. It is also used to combat insect bites and minor burns, thanks to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Lavender is also used in skin and hair care for its moisturizing and soothing properties. It is often used to treat skin problems such as eczema, acne and burns, as well as to nourish and hydrate the hair.
Some popular lavender perfumes…
Are you looking for well-known lavender fragrances but don't know where to start? Here's a list to get you started!
• Lavender Extrême by Tom Ford is an Eau de parfum for men and women that smells great and combines lavender with woody notes of musk and sandalwood, creating a bold, sensual and sophisticated fragrance that blends freshness and seduction.
• Lavande by Molinard, an Eau de parfum with a hint of lavender with notes of sage and vanilla, offering an elegant, comforting and harmonious composition, evoking a herbaceous, gourmand fragrance.
• Encens et Lavande by Serge Lutens combines lavender, pink berries, incense and rosemary for an enchanting, meditative and mystical fragrance, with spicy and aromatic nuances.
• Eau de Cologne du Parfumeur by Guerlain is a refreshingly elegant eau de cologne that combines notes of bright citrus, aromatic lavender and subtle musk, offering a timeless, classic olfactory experience.
• L’Homme by Yves Saint Laurent is an iconic eau de toilette. Bold, this men's cologne uses lavender as a top note with bergamot, ginger and basil. Its distinctive bottle has certainly played a role in its worldwide success. Moreover, Yves Saint Laurent Libre is also one of the most popular lavender perfumes for women.
• Furthermore, Saint Laurent Libre eau de parfum, Chloé Atelier des Fleurs Lavanda Eau de Parfum, Chanel Boy Eau de Parfum and Chanel Jersey Les exclusifs de Chanel Eau de Parfum, Gucci The Alchemist’s Garden Moonlight Serenade Scented Water, Jo Malone London Wisteria & Lavender, Guerlain Mon Guerlain Eau de Parfum and Heretic Dirty Lavender Eau de Parfum are among famous lavender scents as well.
Lavender X Bon Parfumeur
Bon Parfumeur offers best lavender perfumes made in France! Among them, the fragrances that we recommend are:
• Eau de parfum 001 : We all love this must-have for its comforting, yet elegant sweetness. A trio of sparkling citrus fruits awakens this timeless, best lavender cologne. Bergamot and lavandin combine with the sweetness of orange blossom, and musky base notes add staying power to soothe your senses . Much more than just a fresh cologne, it truly sticks to our skin.
• Eau de parfum 101 : A queenly fragrance for the queen of flowers: Perfect for spring , soft and fresh as a rose garden. The opening notes are green and spicy with cardamom, bergamot and lavender. The lavender eau de parfum has rose and sweet peas in the heart notes. Damask rose is used in absolutes and essences. In the base, musk and white cedar bring a powdery softness.
• Eau de parfum 702 : The scent of the Parisian barber shop! Sparkling, lemon-like top notes give way to incense. The woody-aromatic heart opens with a trio including the notes of lavender , cedar and cashmere wood. The vanilla and musk base adds a powerful yet perfectly rounded touch to this creation that you can wear everyday.
• Diffuser 02 : It releases a scent blend that combines the warm and aromatic notes of lavandin, coriander seed, the sweet richness of honey, and the earthy undertones of tobacco leaf.
Immerse yourself in a unisex fragrance from the French Riviera, evoking the very essence of this legendary region, creating an enchanting landscape of beauty that captivates the senses and evokes a sense of serenity.
