Lavender and Lavandin oils from Provence

While growing up in Provence, in the South of France, I was always surrounded by Lavender scent, but I did not know the full story of how it was produced.

Because I like to know more than just the ingredients and benefits of the products we distribute at KENZA International Beauty, I decided to conduct some in-depth research on French Lavender from Provence, before I consider adding it to the KENZA Skin & Hair product line.

Always ask the locals
My brother Adil is very active in the community of our hometown of Istres in Provence. He works for the city government, knows everyone in town, and is its “unofficial” mayor. So, when I mentioned to him I was searching for a good source of lavender, he started going through his contact list (LinkedIn would be jealous) and voila’ found the perfect connection.

He picked up the phone and called his friend Guy do Cavaco whose wife works at the largest Lavender distillery in France, in Sault en Provence.
With Guy da Cavaco

We soon learned that, coincidentally, the small village was celebrating “Le festival de la Lavande.”
I took the next train to Avignon, then rented a car, and headed straight to Sault through the most beautiful scenery, country side, and villages.

Sault en Provence & Le Festival de la Lavande

At the “Festival de la Lavande” in Sault, I met Bill Flanagan, an American blogger who vividly shares his experience in his blog Lost in Provence. He does an amazing job reporting on this beautiful region, on its people, and on Lavender, the “Purple gold”. Watch it Purple Gold, you will enjoy it.

The Lavender distillery
At the distillery, I tried to learn everything about Lavender, Lavandin, and the products they manufacture with these essential oils. I even tasted a drink, a cookie, and a crepe made with Lavender!

Lavender or Lavandin?
Both are essential oils produced by steam distillation.
Lavender is a small aromatic evergreen shrub of the mint family. It has narrow leaves and bluish-purple flowers. It has been widely used in perfumes and medicines since ancient times. It is mostly used in skincare and aromatherapy.

I like this article by Mind Body Green
Uses of Lavender Oil

Lavandin, instead, is a plant that comes from the natural crossing (via bee pollination) of Fine Lavender and Lavender Aspic.It is uses for massage, home perfumes, laundry re-freshener, candles, soaps and more.

KENZA’ Beautiful Friends will soon be able to experience Provence, its beauty, charm, and scents through the KENZA Pure Provence Lavender collection: Lavender and Lavandin essential oils and other related products.

During the launch of our Provence Lavender line you will receive a sample of our Argan & Lavender Soap with purchase of KENZA Pure Lavender Oil OR KENZA Pure Lavandin Oil.

Do you use Lavender oil? Tell us how
How about lavandin?

Available wholesale.

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