When learning about and working with essential oils it is particularly important to pay attention to the botany, origin and plant family, as this will identify the exact oil that you’re
working with and what it can be used for, along with any safety considerations. 

For example,  French Lavender comes from Lavandula (genus) angustifolia (species) which is a member of the Lamiaceae family. Together, the genus and the species give us the latin
name of the plant e.g. Lavandula angustifolia.

Like humans, plants from the same family share similar characteristics, and this can sometimes give us an indication of what properties those plants will impart to their essential oils. 

On the other hand, however, again like humans, plants found in the same family can also
have major differences, and this is why it is most important to look at the chemistry of an oil
to accurately understand its properties.

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Knowing the chemical profile of an essential oil can help you create custom blends and formulations that are tailored to your specific needs and preferences. By understanding the chemical properties of each oil, you can combine them in a way that maximises their benefits and creates a customised scent or blend.