Genetic Resources and Breeding Strategies for Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.)

Lavandula angustifolia is a widespread blooming plant throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. Lavender offers various advantages for human health and has a long history of usage in conventional medicine to treat insomnia, and anxiety, and to enhance the quality of sleep. Lavender is frequently found in soaps, fragrances, bath salts, and scented sachets. Even in low quantities, it can add flavor to foods or drinks. Its effectiveness in treating a variety of ailments has been shown in various ethnopharmacological investigations. It contains anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antispasmodic, sedative, insecticidal, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Numerous research studies have explored the phytochemistry and pharmacological applications of Lavender. This species has high genetic diversity at morphological, molecular, and biochemical levels worldwide. DNA markers such as RAPD, ISSR, SSR, SNP, and SRAP were used to assess genetic diversity in L. angustifolia. However, it is still lacking in organized germplasm resources, improved cultivars, and suitable agrotechnologies, particularly for the Himalayan region. This chapter summarizes previous studies on taxonomy, geographical distribution, essential oil constituents, ethnopharmacological applications, genetic diversity, breeding strategies, and potential in this plant.