22: 5 Species of Lavender - Botanical Names Explained!

 In this episode of the Aromatic Wisdom Podcast, Liz dives into the fascinating world of Lavender taxonomy and nomenclature, explaining the differences between several species of Lavender plants and their essential oils. 

You'll learn why  Latin names matter, how to identify each lavender species, and what makes their chemistry and therapeutic benefits unique. 

Enjoy the podcast!  It is my sincere hope that you will feel inspired to explore essential oils deeper after listening and learn what is possible for your health and well-being when you include aromatherapy into your life.

What You Will Learn in This Episode

• The meaning of taxonomy and nomenclature and why they’re essential in aromatherapy.
• The structure of Latin binomials (genus and species) and how to read essential oil labels professionally.
• How different species of lavender—Lavandula angustifolia, Lavandula latifolia, Lavandula stoechas, Lavandula intermedia, and Lavandula x spica—differ in chemistry, aroma, and use.
• Why using Latin names ensures you’re working with the correct essential oil for therapeutic purposes.
• Insights into Lavandula x spica, a rare lavender grown in Crete with unusually high 1,8-cineole content.
• A real-life “Smell My Life” story about how Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata forma genuina) helped a student lower high blood pressure.

Resource Links

• Aromatic Wisdom Institute Blog Post on Taxonomy and Nomenclature
  
  
• The Lavender Way – Jill and Derek Pierce’s Lavender Farm in Crete
  
  
• The Genus Lavandula by Upson and Andrews (book reference)
• Podcast Show Notes for Episode 22