LAVENDER.
Lavendel, Da.,Do.,G.,Sw. Lavandula, . . LAT., Sr.
Lavande, . . . . Fn. Alfazema, . . . Po RT. Tistakhudas, . . Hum. Unyetshnayatrava, Res. Lavendola, Spigo, . kr. Espliego, . . . . Sr.
Twelve species of lavender have been described, only two of which are of much interest, viz. the common lavender, Lavandula vera, and French lavender, L. Spica. The former yields the fragrant oil of lavender used in perfumery, its solution in spirits of wine forming what is called lavender water, and the latter oil of spike, used by painters on porcelain, and in the preparation of varnishes for artists. English oil of lavender is prepared chiefly at Mitcham in Surrey, where the plant is extensively cultivated for the purpose. It is in highest perfection when about a year old. At first it is nearly colourless, but gradually acquires a pale amber tint. Lavender water is the dis tilled water of lavender flowers.
Lavandula spies, D.C. Sita-ki-pungeri, DUMF. This native of Europe grows to great perfection on the Neilgherry Hills. The bush there has a strong aromatic scent, but seldom survives more than two years. The volatile oil is limpid, very transparent, yellowish-white ; four parts contain nearly two of camphor. Often adulterated with the oil of turpentine, and of a species of lavender of superior aromatic power, though more acrid. Oil much used by porcelain painters, and called `oil of spike.' Lavandula stcechas, W.
/Esta-kudus, . . ARAB. I Osta-kudus, . . A RAD. Oostakhudus, . „ French lavender, . ENO.
This is much prized by the Arabs, as au ex pectorant and antispasmodic. It is imported into Bombay from the Persian Gulf, and is used medicinally by the natives of India.—O'Sh. p. 489 ; Faulkner.