Essential oils offer a host of benefits. Some can be energizing and others can be used to induce relaxation. These oils are so effective in promoting relaxation that they can be unequivocally sedative. There are numerous oils that can be used to promote better sleep, and can even be effective enough to combat insomnia.

 

The five best sleep-inducing essential oils include:

 

1. Lavender Oil

Lavender is possibly the most popular essential oil on the market. It is commonly used to help its users drift off into a peaceful slumber. Not only does it promote relaxation, studies have shown that enjoying this scent before bed can improve the quality of restful sleep consumers experience.

      2. Chamomile Oil

Chamomile is an ancient medicinal herb that has been used to treat insomnia, among other ailments, for generations. It helps to alleviate anxiety, depression, and stress– resulting in a more restful slumber and better quality of life.

     3. Valerian Oil

Valerian essential oil contains an acid that is known to affect neurotransmitters in such a way that it produces a powerful sedative effect. It is as effective as some prescription anti-anxiety medications in promoting deep sleep. Valerian oil is also great for easing nervous tension.

    4. Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood has a rich history of providing relaxation and anxiety relief. Scientific research indicates that this essential oil can have sedative effects and increase the amount of non-REM sleep its consumers experience.

   5. Jasmine Oil

Jasmine is well-known for its ability to combat insomnia. Interestingly enough, on a molecular level, the jasmine flower, from which the oil is derived, shares similarities with prescription medications that are commonly used to treat insomnia. Research has shown that jasmine essential oil is even more effective in providing sedative effects than lavender oil.

 

Methods of Using Essential Oils for Sleep

• Rub a few drops on parts of your body. The most common body parts to apply essential oils to include: chest, wrist, neck, forehead, hands and feet.
• • Important note: before applying the essential oil, it is recommended to mix the essential oil with a carrier oil. Undiluted essential oils may cause irritation to sensitive skin.
    • Common carrier oils include jojoba, grape seed, coconut, and sweet almond oil.

• Pour a few drops in an essential oil diffuser.

• Add a couple drops of your preferred essential oil on your hand and rub your palms together. Cup your hands over your nose and inhale the scent.

• Create a mixture of essential oils and water in a spray bottle. Spritz the concoction on your pillow and bedding.

• Add a few drops into your bath before bed. To maximize relaxation, add Epsom salts to the bath as well.

 

Five Essential Oil Blends to Promote Sleep

 

Sleep Diffuser Blend #1

3 drops – lavender

3 drops – bergamot

 

Sleep Diffuser Blend #2

3 drops – lavender

3 drops – vetiver

 

Sleep Diffuser Blend #3

2 drops – lavender

2 drops – sandalwood

2 drops – cedarwood

 

Sleep Diffuser Blend #4

4 drops – sandalwood

3 drops – jasmine

2 drops – ylang ylang