Lavandin Flowers

Lavandin Flowers: Special cut dried flowers of Lavandula x intermedia, the lavender hybrid grown across Provence for its intensive aroma and high oil content. The buds are larger and far more fragrant than true lavender, which is why crafters reach for them for sachets, bath products, potpourri and home beauty recipes. Offered in 4oz, 1LB and 10lb sizes.

The herb: Lavandin is a natural cross between true lavender, Lavandula angustifolia, and spike lavender, Lavandula latifolia, from the Mediterranean hills. The hybrid grows bigger and hardier than either parent and yields several times more oil per plant, which is why the purple fields most people picture in Provence are lavandin. Its oil carries linalool and linalyl acetate like true lavender, but with more camphor and 1,8-cineole from the spike parent.

What's in it: Dried lavandin flowers only. Linalool supplies the familiar soft lavender note, while the extra camphor and cineole push the fragrance toward fresh and herbal. That camphor is why lavandin is a craft flower first and a tea flower second.

Dosage, first time: For a sachet, fill a small muslin bag with a few tablespoons and tuck it into a drawer. For a bath, a handful in a cloth bag under the tap scents the whole tub. If you do sip it, keep it light: a scant teaspoon per 8 oz of hot water, steeped no more than 5 minutes, since longer brings out the camphor.

Regular use: Sachets keep their scent for months and revive when squeezed. Crafters blend lavandin with rose or cedar shavings for potpourri, infuse it into oils and salts for skin care, and use it in closet bags. A little goes further than true lavender.

What to expect: A bright, clean, calming fragrance that users describe as both settling and refreshing, ideal for a peaceful atmosphere at home. It is not the lavender to choose for cooking. For a softer, sweeter lavender for the cup, see Lavender Flower (Organic) or English Lavender Flower.

Side effects: Most people tolerate lavandin well. Its higher camphor content can irritate sensitive skin or bring a headache in a poorly ventilated room, and a strong cup can upset the stomach. Use less, ventilate, or stop.

Interactions and cautions: Patch-test any homemade skin care recipe first, and keep infusions away from eyes. If you drink it, it may add to sedative medications; consult a healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing or on medication.

Ingredients and storage: Lavandin Flowers (Lavandula x intermedia). Store sealed in a cool, dark, dry place; the high oil content holds its scent for a year or more.

Common questions: What is the difference between lavandin and lavender flowers? Lavandin is a hybrid with more oil and a sharper, camphor-forward scent, best for crafts, while true lavender is sweeter and better for tea. Can you drink lavandin flowers as tea? You can, lightly and briefly steeped, but the camphor makes it harsher than true lavender. How long do lavandin sachets stay fragrant? Months; a squeeze of the bag releases fresh scent.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Lavandin is a traditional botanical, and traditional use does not establish that it will produce any particular result. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you take any medication or have a medical condition. Use at your own risk and keep out of reach of children. Formulated by Healing Herbals, run by a practicing herbalist of 13+ years.