Lavender & France : The Aromatic Connection

Lavender & France : The Aromatic Connection

The journey of lavender from a medicinal garden plant to a lucrative commercial commodity unfolded in the 18th century with the creation of the corporation of master perfumers in Grasse, France.

Considered as the world's capital of perfume, Grasse is the only subprefecture of the Alpes-Maritimes department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region on the French Riviera. Grasse, known as the perfume capital of the world, became a hub for lavender processing and perfume production in 1759.

Nurtured by the rugged terrain of Provence, lavender found a haven in the region’s harsh climate and rocky soil. Its wild proliferation mirrored the resilience of the Provencal landscape, fostering a symbiotic relationship that would shape the region’s identity for centuries to come.

This industry became deeply rooted in the seasonal rhythms and the familial way of life of Provence, often engaging women in its practices. Initially, it was the local shepherds and peasants who gathered this wild lavender. In 1920, the production of lavender essential oil had reached 70 tons, with 90% sourced from wild harvesting and 10% from cultivated lavender. But by 1960, the production of lavender essential oil rose to 130 tons, with 90% now coming from cultivated lavender and only 10% from the wild. Lavender farming became a cornerstone of the region’s economy, providing livelihoods for many and reinforcing its cultural identity as the heartland of lavender production.

This shift in production carpeted the landscape with lavender fields, contributing to Provence’s iconic imagery and scent captivating artists, writers, poets and visitors alike.

Lavender is truly a gift from nature, for its ability to enhance our well-being and bring contentment to in our daily lives.

Lavender boasts a diverse array of practical and medicinal applications, making it a cherished treasure in Provence, France. Renowned for its versatility, this fragrant herb finds its way into an assortment of products, from soothing teas and luxurious perfumes to invigorating essential oils and delectable confections.

With its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities, it offers a soothing remedy for headaches, sleeplessness, and bug bites. Beyond its therapeutic qualities, lavender encapsulates the quintessential Provençal lifestyle, seamlessly integrating into daily routines as a decorative embellishment, culinary accent, and indispensable component in aromatherapy.

Moreover, the humble lavender sachet stands as a loyal guardian, warding off mites from drawers and closets, infusing a touch of Provence’s natural charm into every corner of the home.

Lavender’s appeal transcends the visual and olfactory—it’s also a culinary treasure. Employed as a herb, spice, flavoring, and decoration, lavender can elevate a variety of dishes, from the simplicity of salads to the richness of meats and sweets. Whether in teas, lemonades, syrups, or liqueurs, lavender adds a distinct regional touch that’s integral to Provencal gastronomy. Discover and indulge in the many lavender-infused delicacies throughout Provence in France.

The region of Provence is the best place in France to see the lavender fields. If your heart is set on witnessing the mesmerizing lavender fields, it’s never too early to start planning your journey.