Do you frequently wake up feeling drowsy and lethargic? Well, you’re not alone. Lack of sleep is a big problem in modern society. In fact, recent research has shown that almost one third of Americans sleep fewer than six hours per night. Chronic lack of sleep is connected to a host of health problems, including daytime sleepiness, heart disease, depression, and even metabolic issues like weight gain and diabetes.
Thankfully for those in the know, essential oils play an important role in soothing the body and mind and signalling the brain that it’s time to drop off. It’s important to choose an essential oil which promotes relaxation and helps you to unwind ready for a deep and restful sleep. Read on to learn about three of the best essential oils for sleep.
Lavender
Lavender is the most popular essential oil for sleep, and for good reason. Lavender has been used since ancient times for its calming and soothing scent which is great for relaxing at the end of a hard day. Lavender’s sleep promoting properties have been used for thousands of years, but modern science is just starting to catch up.
A 2015 study of college students with self-reported sleep issues showed that, when combined with sleep-hygiene measures, lavender essential oil worked to promote restful sleep and help participants to wake up feeling refreshed.
Meanwhile, more recent research from 2018 found that lavender improved the sleep quality of nursing home residents who inhaled lavender drops on their pillows. So, whether you’re young or old, lavender is a great option to add to your bedtime routine.
Jasmine
Jasmine essential oil is derived from the flowers of the jasmine plant. Jasmine oil has long been used as a natural remedy for depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
A small study of 24 volunteers found that the scent of jasmine in low concentrations, like those found in jasmine tea, “has sedative effects on both autonomic nerve activity and mood states.” In short, the scent of jasmine can help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety which can interfere with sleep.
Jasmine is also known for its aphrodisiac properties. So, it’s a great essential oil to incorporate into a relaxing bedtime massage which will promote intimacy between you and your partner and prepare you both for a long and relaxing slumber.
Ylang Ylang
Ylang Ylang is an essential oil with a powerfully fragrant floral aroma known to promote relaxation. Essential oil blends including Ylang Ylang have been studied and found to reduce the stress response, lower cortisol levels, and even reduce blood pressure when inhaled.
Ylang Ylang is a great oil for combining with other floral scents, like lavender, so why not try adding a few drops to your diffuser before bed to promote a deep and restful sleep?
Essential Oils for Sleep - It’s All About Your Bedtime Routine
The causes of sleep deprivation are complicated, but one of the most important aspects to getting a good night’s sleep is establishing, and sticking to, a bedtime routine. Try taking a warm bath or placing a few drops of your favorite relaxing scent on a tissue under your pillow.
If you’re searching for the missing ingredient in your sleep routine, choosing the right essential oil could make all the difference to your night’s rest, helping you to wake up feeling energized and ready to overcome the new day’s challenges.