If you're one of the millions who struggle with sleep, you know how frustrating it can be. You may have tried everything from pills to sleep aids, but nothing seems to work. If you're looking for a natural way to improve your sleep, essential oils for sleep may be the answer.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts used for centuries for their healing properties. Many different essential oils can be used to improve sleep, each with unique benefits. When you know what essential oils are good for sleep, you can create a perfect blend.
Here are eight essential oils for sleep that can help improve your sleep and how to use them.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil has long been used as a natural remedy for insomnia and other sleep disorders. The calming, floral scent of lavender is thought to help relax the mind and body, preparing them for sleep. In addition to its pleasant aroma, lavender oil is also believed to have other sleep-promoting properties.
For example, lavender oil can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. These effects may help to promote better sleep by reducing stress and worry. Additionally, lavender oil is often used as an aromatherapy treatment for headaches and migraines.
The soothing scent of lavender oil can help to relieve pain and tension, making it easier to fall asleep. If you're struggling with insomnia, consider trying a Lavender oil diffuser placed near your bed. You may find that the relaxing scent of lavender helps you to drift off to sleep more easily.
Chamomile Oil
Chamomile oil is another essential oil that has long been used as a natural sleep aid. This oil is derived from the chamomile plant and has a sweet, herbaceous scent. Chamomile oil is thought to be helpful for sleep because of its calming and relaxing properties.
For example, chamomile oil has been shown to help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. These effects may help to improve sleep by reducing stress and anxiety levels. Chamomile oil is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Ylang-Ylang Oil
One way to improve your odds of getting a restful night's sleep is to use ylang-ylang oil. This oil comes from the flowers of the tropical ylang-ylang tree, and it has a sweet, floral scent. When used in aromatherapy, ylang-ylang oil can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels.
It can also promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. If you're having trouble falling asleep, try diffusing a few drops of ylang-ylang oil in your bedroom about 30 minutes before bedtime. You can also add a few drops to your pillow or massage a small amount into your temples.
According to Kyle Zien, Director of Growth Marketing, Felix, "Ylang-ylang has a sedative effect on the central nervous system, making it ideal for use in an oil diffuser before bedtime."
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is a popular natural remedy for various ailments, including headaches, digestive issues, and skin problems. However, peppermint oil can also be used to improve sleep.
The refreshing scent of peppermint oil can help to clear the mind and promote relaxation. In addition, peppermint oil can help to relieve tension headaches and muscle aches, two common causes of sleeplessness. When applied to the temples or back of the neck, peppermint oil can help to soothe and relax the body, making it easier to drift off to sleep.
Alejandra Leyva, content manager working with Climbing House, says, "Peppermint oil is one of my favorite essential oils for sleep. The minty, refreshing scent helps to clear my mind and relax my body, making it easier to fall asleep."
Marjoram Oil
Marjoram oil is derived from the herb marjoram, a member of the mint family. Marjoram has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments, including insomnia and anxiety. The oil is extracted from the leaves and flowers of the plant and is typically diluted with a carrier oil before being used.
Marjoram oil is thought to be beneficial for sleep because it promotes relaxation and eases muscle tension. In addition, marjoram oil has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help relieve some symptoms associated with conditions like insomnia and anxiety.
Roman Chamomile Oil
Roman chamomile oil has long been used as a natural remedy for insomnia and other sleep disorders. The oil is derived from the chamomile plant, which is native to Europe and Asia. Chamomile oil has a calming, relaxing effect on the body and can help to promote sleep.
In addition, the oil is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Roman chamomile oil can be diffused in an essential oil diffuser or added to a bath before bedtime. It can also be applied topically to the chest or temples.
Sweet Basil Oil
The sweet basil plant has been used for centuries in culinary dishes and as a natural remedy for various ailments. More recently, research has begun to explore the potential benefits of sweet basil oil for sleep. Sweet basil oil is thought to be helpful for sleep because it contains an antioxidant called eugenol.
Eugenol has been shown to have sedative effects in animal studies, and it is also used in some over-the-counter sleep aids. In addition, sweet basil oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
While more research is needed to confirm the effects of sweet basil oil on sleep, this natural remedy may be worth trying if you struggle to get a good night's rest.
Clary Sage Oil
Clary sage oil is derived from the clary sage plant, which is native to Europe. The oil has a sweet, floral aroma and is known for its calming and relaxant properties. It can be used in diffusers, added to bathwater, or applied topically to the skin. Clary sage oil is most commonly used to improve sleep quality.
Inhaling the oil before bedtime can help to promote relaxation and ease anxiety. Adding a few drops of clary sage oil to your pillowcase can also help you to get a good night's sleep.
If you wake up at night, try dabbing some clary sage oil on your temples or behind your ears for a calming effect.
Bottom Line
If you struggle to get a good night's sleep, consider using essential oils for sleep and anxiety. A variety of essential oils can be used to promote relaxation and ease stress. Try using one or more of these essential oils for sleep to see if they improve your sleep quality. As you use these oils for aromatherapy for sleep, start with a small amount and increase gradually as needed.
