Abstract : The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition and assess the antioxidant activity of the essential oil of the dried leaves of lavender (Lavandula officinalis). The essential oil was analysed by GC/MS and 56 compounds were identified, the main ones being: Linalool (33.96 %), Linalyl acetate (33.07 %), Borneol (4.55%), Eucalyptol (3.02%), E-β-ocimene (1.67%), Caryophyllene (1.62%), Lavandulyl acetate (1.61%), Fenchone (1.47%), Hexyl butanoate (1.42%), Z-β-ocimene (1.15%) and Limonene (1.14%). Evaluation of antioxidant activity in vitro revealed an antioxidant capacity. Based on these numerous tests, essential oils of Lavandula officinalis can be used as an alternative to synthetic antioxidants.