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7 Essential Oils For A Better Night’s Sleep

7 Essential Oils For A Better Night’s Sleep

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A good night’s sleep is essential for our overall health and well-being. But for many of us, falling asleep and staying asleep can be a challenge. Luckily, there are some natural solutions that can help. One of those solutions is using essential oils.

There are a variety of essential oils that can promote relaxation and help beat insomnia. In this blog post, we’ll share 7 of our favourite essential oils for a better night’s sleep. We’ll also give you some tips on how to use them so you can get the most out of their benefits. So if you’re looking for a natural way to improve your sleep, read on!

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There is no substitute for a great night’s sleep! If it’s just one or two nights then you can usually get by drinking copious amounts of coffee but more than that it can start to become a problem.

The daily stresses of life, whether that be family issues, work commitments, financial problems or even health worries can all take their toll and leave us tossing and turning all night! However, there are a few things that can help and one of my favourite ways to help me relax when I can’t sleep is to use essential oils!

Using essential oils for a better night’s sleep is a great natural way to help the body relax and switch off. Essential oils have been used for centuries as natural remedies to enhance health and well-being. The use of fragrance to affect mood has long been recognised and is now well established with the practice of aromatherapy.

There is an art and science to using essential oils. Many laboratories around the world are researching and carrying out clinical trials to enhance our understanding of how they work and the best way to use them!

Please note: The contents of this article and blog should not be considered medical advice.

What Are Essential Oils:

8 Essential oils for a better night's sleep

Essential oils are highly concentrated essences derived from plants. These oils contain a plant’s therapeutic properties that can help restore balance to the mind body and soul.

Almost all plants contain essential oils, all with a variety of different properties and unique therapeutic benefits. In some plants, oil is extracted from the seeds, peel or resin and others from the leaves, bark or flowers.

A single essential oil can contain as many as 100 chemical compounds which work together to give each oil its distinct aroma. Some compounds are more dominant than others and this will determine how the oil will affect the mind or body. For example, methanol is a major component of Peppermint oil at around 40%.

Each of these compounds can be broken down further into oxygenated and hydrocarbons.

Oxygenated compounds tend to be stronger scented and last longer. Examples include alcohols, esters and ketones. Alcohol has an antibacterial property and can be found in ginger and juniper oils. Esters are antiseptic and can be found in basil and clove and ketones, which are known to rejuvenate cells and can be found in rose and camphor.

Hydrocarbons, on the other hand, can be found in oils such as myrrh and have a wide range of properties such as being antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, however, they can spoil quickly when exposed to air.

However, essential oils should be used with caution. Depending on how they are used, not all essential oils are good for you and may even be toxic! Thujone is one of the most toxic members of the ketone family. It can be an irritant and neurotoxic when taken internally. Although, when inhaled can stimulate the immune system and help with respiratory distress.

How Do Essential Oils Work:

Essential oils work in 2 main ways, inhalation and absorption. The quickest way is by inhaling their aroma which has a direct effect on the brain. Oils absorbed into the skin via massage or in a bath tend to have a more holistic effect.

Inhalation:

8 Essential oils for a better night's sleep

Our sense of smell is thought to be the strongest of all senses. Humans are thought to be able to distinguish between more than 10,000 different aromas! It’s thought that those who have lost their sense of smell are more prone to developing depression and anxiety.

Studies suggest that inhaling a scent has an immediate effect on the brain. The inhaled molecules reach our receptor sites, one of which is called the limbic system or also known as the ’emotional switchboard’. This area of the brain controls our heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress levels, and hormone balance thus having a direct effect on our mood and emotions.

Essential oil molecules can also be inhaled through our nostrils into the lungs which then enter the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, these tiny molecules are carried around the body via our circulation system providing healing effects along the way.

Absorption:

8 Essential oils for a better night's sleep

Diluted essential oils can be absorbed into the bloodstream via the skin. The amount that is absorbed depends on many things such as the oil’s temperature and skin type and condition.

When essential oils are combined with massage the therapeutic effects can be enhanced. The act of massage in itself can produce a state of deep relaxation. When you are stressed or emotional your body is usually flooded with hormones that can keep you awake, putting you in a fight or flight state.

When you have an aromatherapy massage, you are inhaling and absorbing the healing properties of the essential oils as well as the therapeutic benefits of massage. The relaxing effect of an aromatherapy massage can help the body systems rebalance and trigger the body to release feel-good endorphins that will make you feel happier and calmer thus helping you relax and ensuring a proper night’s sleep!

Warning: Do not ingest essential oils, this can be extremely dangerous and this method should only be used when specially trained physicians and pharmacists prescribe and dispense them. 

7 Essential Oils For A Better Nights Sleep:

Lavender:

Lavender essential oil for a better night's sleep

Lavender is well known for its sleep-inducing benefits. A versatile and popular essential oil, lavender has a calming fragrance which can also help reduce anxiety which in turn can aid restful sleep.

Best uses to aid sleep – Room sprays, candles and as a bath soak.

Safe usage – Non-toxic and non-irritant.

Vanilla:

Vanilla essential oil for a better night's sleep

Most people think of vanilla as a baking ingredient but as an essential oil, it’s also a great stress reliever. Its sweet aroma can help dispel feelings of negativity and anxiety as well its uplifting properties are thought to give an aphrodisiac effect.

With its strong scent only a small amount is needed.

Best uses to aid sleep – Use in a diffuser or candle.

Safe usage – Non-toxic and non-irritant.

Chamomile:

Chamomile essential oil for a better night's sleep

Camomile doesn’t just make a great herbal tea, it’s also a very popular essential oil. It usually makes an effective skin treatment but its soothing properties can also help calm irritability, nervousness and tension headaches helping to promote relaxation and restful sleep.

Best uses to aid sleep – As a bath oil or massage oil.

Safe usage – Non-toxic and non-irritant when diluted.

Rose:

Rose essential oil for a better night's sleep

Rose has been a popular essential oil since antiquity and is well known for its calming, uplifting aroma. Its mild detoxicating and antiseptic properties can also relieve pain and nausea. Rose is not usually the first essential oil to think of to aid sleep, however, its calming effects can take the edge off stress-related conditions thus helping the body relax before sleep.

Best uses to aid sleep – As a massage oil

Safe usageRose absolute is non-toxic and non-irritant. However, use 1% in dilutions due to high methyl eugenol content.

Jasmine:

Jasmine essential oil for a better night's sleep

Fresh and floral, jasmine’s aroma is instantly uplifting hence why it’s often used as a perfume. However, its uplifting scent can also help relieve tension, stress and anxiety as well as dispel feelings of negativity which we can all agree can contribute to a bad night’s sleep!

Best uses to aid sleep – As a perfume or room spray.

Safe usage – Non-toxic and non-irritant.

Bergamot:

Bergamot essential oil for a better night's sleep

Similar to Jasmine, Bergamot is often using in colognes. It has a fruity aroma which acts as an antidepressant by balancing mood and easing anxiety.

Best uses to aid sleep – As a massage oil

Safe usage – Non-toxic and non-irritant in dilution. Ensure you buy bergaptene free (FCF) otherwise its phot-toxic.

Ylang Ylang:

Ylang ylang essential oils for better sleep

With its exotic floral aroma yang ylang is both uplifting and relaxing at the same time. This means increased feelings of well-being as well as having calming properties that can help lower blood pressure and decrease breathing rates thus reducing feelings of anxiety. Its sedating properties alongside its calming effects can also help with depression and tension.

Best uses to aid sleep – As a massage or bath oil.

Safe usage – Non-toxic and non-irritant. It has a very strong odour so use well-diluted.

How To Use Essential Oils For A Better Night’s Sleep:

There are many ways to enjoy essential oils especially if used to help you sleep better. Some of the most beneficial methods include having a long hot soak in a luxurious aromatherapy bath or an oil-infused massage.

Some of the best ways you can use essential oils for a better night’s sleep include:

  • Adding essential oil to a bath – Blend essential oils with carrier oil before adding to the bath. This helps the oils dispense in the water and also moisturises the skin. I usually add 5-10 drops of essential oil with a tablespoon of coconut oil. You can also add a few drops of oil to a tablespoon of full-fat milk, this helps the oil disperse evenly but without the moisturising effects. Add the oil to the bath once run to reduce the chance of the vapours evaporating in the heat.
  • Steam shower – Add 5-8 drops of essential oil to a warm damp flannel and if possible hang the flannel at face level to fully enjoy the aroma. Do not use this flannel to wash your skin as the oil could irritate the skin.
  • Steam inhalation – Add 2-3 drops of essential oil to a bowl of hot water and place a towel over your head. With your eyes closed slowly breathe deeply for around 10 minutes or until there is no more steam. Caution, do not use this method if you suffer from asthma or epilepsy.
  • Use in a diffuser – First add some water to the hotplate and add then a couple of drops of essential oil. For electric diffusers use according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Make your own mist spray – Add 20-30 drops of essential oil to 2 tablespoons each of mineral water and vodka and transfer into a sterilised atomiser bottle. Use this mist spray in the bedroom to create a calming atmosphere.
  • Scented candles – There are thousands of varieties of essential oil-infused candles on the market, but why not try making your own? My Lavender infused wax melts and sachets are perfect for encouraging a great nights sleep. The process of making them can also be very therapeutic.
  • Have a massage – Having an essential oil-infused massage is probably one of the best ways of relaxing before heading off to bed. Mix an aromatherapy blend with the following ratios. For sensitive or damaged skin use 2.5% essential oil with a light carrier oil such as almond, grapeseed or coconut oil. Use 5% on normal skin. If you don’t have anyone to give you a massage why not try using a 1% blend and give yourself a facial massage, just be careful around the eyes.

Safety Information When Using Essential Oils:

  • Essential oils in the undiluted form are highly concentrated and intense and can irritate your skin. DO NOT APPLY undiluted essential oil to your skin.
  • Some people experience an allergic reaction to essential oils. Testing is recommended before using any new oil. You can do that by applying a few drops of diluted oil to the skin on your inner arm, covering it with a bandage, and checking for skin irritation over the next 48 hours.
  • If you are unsure of what you are doing then please buy already diluted oils from your local health shop.
  • Also, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider before using essential oils.
  • Again: Do not ingest essential oils, this can be extremely dangerous and this method should only be used when specially trained physicians and pharmacists prescribe and dispense them. 

Final Thoughts:

If you’re looking for a good night’s sleep, consider using any of the essential oils we’ve mentioned. Lavender oil is a great place to start because it’s been shown to be one of the most effective oils for promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. However, if you don’t like the smell of lavender or it doesn’t seem to work for you, try experimenting with some of the other options until you find an oil that helps you get the restful slumber you need. What are your favorite essential oils for getting a good night’s sleep?

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Always be careful when using essential oils as they can be very potent. Always make sure you dilute any essential oil with a carrier oil before using on the skin and make sure not to ingest it. Always check in with a doctor if sleep problems persist and speak to a qualified aromatherapist if you have any questions or concerns when using aromatherapy.

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