How to Use Soothing Lavender Oil
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between English and French lavender body oil?
Lavandula angustifolia — English lavender — is the classic, true lavender. It has a softer, more floral, and sweeter scent than French lavender (Lavandula × intermedia), which is slightly more camphor-forward and herbal. Both are grown on our Waikato farm. English lavender is generally considered the more calming of the two — its higher linalool content and gentler aromatic profile make it the traditional choice for relaxation and sleep. If you prefer a softer, more classic lavender scent, this is the one.
Will this oil feel greasy or leave residue on clothes?
No — the base is predominantly sunflower and apricot kernel oil, both of which are lightweight and absorb quickly. Apply to warm skin after a shower, allow 2–3 minutes to absorb fully, then dress. A small amount goes a long way — start with a few drops, warm between your palms, and apply in gentle strokes. The 120ml bottle will last several weeks with daily use.
How do I use this body oil for best results?
Apply immediately after a shower or bath while your skin is still slightly warm and damp — this is when your skin is most receptive to absorbing oil. Warm a small amount between your palms and apply in long strokes from feet upward. For relaxation, focus on the shoulders and neck with slow, firm massage strokes. For dry areas, apply a slightly more generous amount to elbows, knees, and heels and allow extra time to absorb.
Can I use this as part of a sleep or relaxation routine?
Yes — Lavandula angustifolia is the lavender variety most widely studied for its calming and sleep-supporting properties, rich in naturally occurring linalool. Apply the body oil to warm skin after a shower, then follow with our English Lavender Body Lotion to seal in moisture. Before bed, mist your pillow with our Lavender Sleep Spray, apply our Lavender Sleep Balm to your pulse points, and roll our Lavender Sleep Roller onto your wrists. All use the same farm-grown lavender so the scents layer naturally.
Where is this body oil made?
Made in New Zealand using English lavender essential oil grown on our family farm in Newstead, Waikato. We've been growing Lavandula angustifolia on our Waikato property since 2014. Every bottle is small-batch made — not factory-manufactured.
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Lavender Backyard Garden Lavender Products Compared to Other Brands
See how our lavender products stack up on sourcing, scent purity, and daily use.
| Features | Lavender Backyard Garden | Other Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Essential Oil | Scented with pure Lavandula angustifolia essential oil (true lavender). | Often uses synthetic fragrance or Lavandula x intermedia (Lavandin). |
| Aroma Profile | Sweet, soft, and floral — gentle on the senses and ideal for winding down. | Typically stronger, sharper, or more herbaceous; may lack sweetness. |
| Base Oils | Crafted with nourishing plant oils: sunflower, apricot kernel, avocado, and argan. | May rely on low-cost carrier oils or include mineral oil derivatives. |
| Skin Feel | Silky, lightweight, and fast-absorbing — non-greasy after feel. | May leave a greasy residue or feel heavy on the skin. |
| Skin Benefits | Gentle, calming, and suitable for sensitive skin or nightly routines. | May not be suitable for daily use or those with skin sensitivities. |
| Production Style | Handcrafted in small batches using lavender grown on our New Zealand farm. | Often mass-produced with imported or lab-made ingredients. |
Why Choose Lavender Backyard Garden?
- Handcrafted calm from farm to home: small-batch lavender products made with real buds on our spray-free New Zealand farm—no synthetic fragrance.
- Traceable care: each item reflects intentional, small-farm craftsmanship and consistent quality.
- Built for wellbeing: natural aroma that soothes and refreshes without artificial additives.
- Designed to be shared: thoughtfully packaged for everyday use or gifting, carrying the story of our farm.
- Consistent purity across the line: every product—from mists to creams—is held to the same high standard.