Our lavender oil is extracted from Himachal Lavender (Lavandula officinalis), of the Lamiaceae (Labiatae) family. It is sourced from Himachal Pradesh, a state in the Indian Himalayas that is south of Kashmir with some of the most famous and beautiful valleys in the world like Kangra, Spiti & Kinnaur. It is also known as garden, common or English lavender.Today, lavender is the most used essential oil in the world. Ancient texts tell us that lavender essential oil has been used for medicinal and religious purposes for over 2,500 years.The Egyptians used it for mummification and as a perfume. The Romans used it for bathing, cooking and for scenting the air. And, quite possibly the most famous usage of all, Mary used it to anoint Jesus with her hair and and some believe spikenard was made from lavender essential oil. Himachal lavender is more subtle and camphorous than the Kashmir Lavender (Lavendula spica or Spike Lavender) which is slightly sweeter and floral. This is why the officinalis is appreciated more by people who do not like the strong fragrance of Kashmir/French Lavender.