11 Jul 8 Essential Oils for Good Sleep
Essential oils are natural oils obtained usually by distillation. They retain the characteristic fragrance, scent, or ‘essence’ of the plant along with other valuable properties. Aromatherapy commonly employs essential oils because of their various benefits. Several essential oils promote feelings of relaxation and calmness and can help experience improved quality of sleep. This article tells you more about how to use essential oils for restful sleep that can rejuvenate and replenish you.
But first, why is sleep important?
In the words of William Shakespeare, “Sleep, the main course in life’s feast, and the most nourishing.” Modern scientific research has confirmed what the great bard said about sleep, centuries ago.
Sleep is essential to every bodily process. It affects our physical and mental well being as well as our metabolism and ability to fight disease. Good sleep is in fact as important for the body as nutritious food and exercise. Healthy adults need between 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep. Sleeping less than 7 hours routinely, can lead to various chronic conditions ranging from high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
Sleep, however, is becoming more and more elusive. The demands and pressures of modern life have made deep, restful sleep a rarity. People often cut back on their sleep to catch up on work, social life, and increasingly for binge watching television. People also complain of not being able to sleep easily because of stress and anxiety.
The good news is that there are various natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can help one get that much-needed shut-eye. Turning off devices at least an hour before, listening to calming music, reading a book are some practices that have shown results for many. Besides these, the use of essential oils can also aid in sleep.
Here are eight essential oils that we highly recommend you incorporate into your regimen to improve the quality of your sleep.
Lavender essential oil
It should come as no surprise to see Lavender essential oil at the top of this list. This floral and sweet-smelling essential oil has various benefits, the least of which is not its ability to lull one into a peaceful sleep. Numerous studies and anecdotes share how diffusing Lavender essential oil creates a soothing atmosphere that helps to relax and calm down.
Ylang Ylang essential oil
Ylang Ylang oil is extracted from the tropical tree by the same name. Diffusing Ylang Ylang essential oil around 40 minutes before your bedtime calms the senses and signals to the body that it is time to slow down and switch off for the night. Its fruity and refreshing smell reduces feelings of tiredness and stress and allows for deep relaxation to set in, which is necessary for good sleep.
Chamomile essential oil
You may have heard of Chamomile tea being a popular choice for inducing sleep. Well, Chamomile essential oil isn’t far behind. You can use Chamomile essential oil in a spray bottle or in an ultrasonic diffuser to enjoy its soothing benefits. Smelling the aroma of this oil can make you feel relaxed and sleepy, as you gradually forget your cares and feel more connected with your body and its need for rest.
Sandalwood essential oil
One of the richest and most luxurious essential oils available, Sandalwood essential oil has a balancing and uplifting effect that reduces feelings of stress and fatigue. Rubbing a few drops of this oil combined with a carrier oil such as jojoba can lead to less wakefulness and lead to restful sleep as it pacifies the mind and any troubled thoughts in it.
Cedarwood essential oil
Another woody and sweet-smelling oil, Cedarwood, helps to enjoy prolonged and high-quality sleep. This warm and comforting essential oil eases tension, reduces harmful stress, and encourages sleep. Its emotionally grounding properties make it suitable for promoting peaceful sleep. If you prefer a more woody scent then this is a better choice than the more floral Lavender.
Bergamot essential oil
Bergamot is a citrus essential oil with wide uses and benefits. However, unlike most citrus essential oils that are invigorating and refreshing, Bergamot has a more calming effect as it possesses sedative qualities. Add a few drops of Bergamot essential oil to a steaming pot of water to prepare your body for rest and sleep. You can also use this oil in combination with a carrier oil such as coconut. Massage your neck, arms, the soles of your feet, and legs to set in deep relaxation for your body, the next step of which is sleep.
Eucalyptus globulus essential oil
One of the most powerful essential oils when it comes to sleep is Eucalyptus globulus. It is a must-have in your medicine cabinet if you suffer from frequent sleeplessness or have trouble falling asleep. A popular oil in general, Eucalyptus has traditionally been used for clearing the airways and promoting deep breathing. It is a good choice during winters and rains when colds and coughs are common and inhibit natural sleep. Its cooling and healing scent along with other properties make it a great choice for diffusing or rubbing with a carrier oil before bedtime.
Peppermint essential oil
Peppermint essential oil is another cooling and soothing essential oil that has shown proven success in helping people enjoy much-needed restful sleep. It helps to clear both the airways and the mind so that you can nod off more easily. Dab some Peppermint essential oil under your pillow or diffuse it around half an hour before you wish to fall asleep.
You can use any of these essential oils individually in diffusers or in body oils. You can also experiment to create your own sleep blends that you enjoy. Remember to use essential oils regularly, for at least 21 days to truly enjoy their benefits for promoting sleep or fixing your sleep schedule.
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