Phytochemical characterization and potential anti‐oxidative activity of Lavandula angustifolia subsp. pyrenaica (DC.), Lavandula x intermedia Emeric ex Loisel cv Grosso and cv Super essential oils compared to a commercial lavender essential oil

This study investigates the phytochemical profiles and antioxidant properties of three lavender essential oils (LEOs) from Lavandula angustifolia subsp. pyrenaica (DC.), Lavandula x intermedia Emeric ex Loisel cv Grosso, Lavandula x intermedia Emeric ex Loisel cv Super, and compares them to a commercial one. LEOs were extracted by hydrodistillation, analyzed using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS), and tested for antioxidant effects on human SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. The major components identified in all the four LEOs were linalool and linalyl acetate; however, in the commercial LEO differences in minor compounds and the presence of additives were found. Antioxidant activity assays revealed significant protection against H₂O₂‐induced oxidative stress for hydrodistilled EOs, while the commercial EO showed no protective effect. Gene expression analysis indicated upregulation of antioxidant‐related genes in cells treated with “Grosso” and “Super” LEOs. This research highlights the potential therapeutic applications of lavender EOs, with a particular emphasis on the differences between naturally derived oils and commercial variants.