Origin. - A volatile oil distilled from fresh flowering tops of Lavandula officinalis Chaix. Lavender is a native to Southern Europe and cultivated in gardens.

Description and Properties. - A colorless or yellowish liquid, having the fragrant odor of lavender flowers and a pungent and bitterish taste. Soluble in all proportions of alcohol. It should be kept in well-stoppered bottles, in a cool place, protected from light.

Dose. - 1-5 minims (0.06-0.03 Cc.) [3 minims (0.2 Cc), U. S. P.].

Official Preparations

Spiritus Lavandulae (5 per cent.) - Spiritus Lavandulae - Spirit of Lavender. - Dose, 1/2-1 fluidram (2.0-4.0 Cc.) [30 minims (2 Cc), U. S. P.].

Tinctura Lavandulae Composita - Tincturae Lavandulae Compositae - Compound Tincture of Lavender. - Oil of lavender, 8; oil of rosemaiy, 2; Saigon cinnamon, 20; cloves, 5; nutmeg, 10; red saunders, 10; alcohol, water, aa q. s. ad 1000 parts. Dose, 1/2-1 fluidram (2.0-4.0 Cc.) [30 minims (2 Cc), U. S. P.]. Compound tincture of lavender is an ingredient of liquor potassii arsenitis.

Physiological Action and Therapeutics are the same as those of other volatile oils mentioned in this group.