We all know sleep is important, but sometimes it can be a struggle getting those recommended 8 hours. There are many things that can impact our precious rest, from noisy neighbours to constant phone screens. But with poor sleep leading to a variety of problems, including forgetfulness, stress and lack of focus, we could all benefit from a better night’s rest.
We can’t stop next door’s dog from barking or make you turn off that late-night Netflix binge. But we can share with you the best essential oils to promote sleep. Aromatherapy is a powerful tool that can be very effective at relaxing you ready for bedtime. Whether you struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting your brain to quieten down for bed, here are the essential oils you need to be using. We’ve also got plenty of suggestions to help you use them!
7 Best Essential Oils to Promote Better Sleep
1. Lavender
Unsurprisingly, lavender comes top of this list. Probably the most well known essential oil, it’s renowned for its relaxing and calming effect on the mind and body. This oil is great for use in an aroma diffuser, to fill your bedroom with its soothing scent. If you’ve not got a diffuser, don’t worry – you can still experience this effect by applying 4 drops to a tissue and placing it on your radiator.
2. Chamomile
If you’re not a fan of lavender, or simply want to try something else, chamomile is a great alternative. Another floral scent, chamomile essential oil is soothing, good for restlessness and anxious feelings. Use this oil if you’re prone to worrying at night or struggle with calming a busy mind. If you want to give this luxurious oil a try but are put off by the cost, we offer chamomile dilute. Meaning you can enjoy the same great essential oil, without the price!
3. Bergamot
Whilst a citrus scent may not be the first thing you think of for promoting sleep, bergamot is actually a calming oil that can reduce stress and anxiety and improve sleep quality. This is a great ingredient to put in homemade massage oil, alongside lavender and chamomile. Simply mix a few drops of each with grapeseed oil, and massage into your skin, aiming for areas where you carry the most tension. A shoulder rub is always good, and it’s easy to do yourself. There are a few areas on your body where essential oils can absorb very effectively – these are your wrists, temples, and the soles of your feet. So try rubbing a little oil there, too. Sleepy bliss awaits!
4. Frankincense
Commonly used during meditation, frankincense essential oil has a calming effect that can clear the mind – perfect if you struggle to forget about your to-do list whilst lying in bed. This is another essential oil that’s great for fragrancing a room, so why not try creating your own sleep spray?
Just combine 50ml alcohol witch hazel with 50ml distilled water in a spray bottle, add 10 drops of essential oil and shake. Spritz it around your room before bed to enjoy the aromatherapy benefits. If you like to meditate before bed, we also offer frankincense resin for use in an oil burner.
5. Petitgrain
This stimulating yet relaxing essential oil is traditionally used in treatments for insomnia, and can also be used to remedy fatigue and tiredness. A simple way of experiencing the benefits of petitgrain is to add a few drops into a bath, relieving tension and melting away stress. To bring this scent into your bedroom, simply remove the cap and place the bottle on a high shelf (out of reach of children). The oil will evaporate naturally, fragrancing your room.
6. Ylang Ylang
Another floral note, this sweet and relaxing scent can soothe away stress and calm any tension, preparing you for quality sleep. Enjoy gorgeous ylang ylang essential oil and all its aromatherapy benefits by diluting a few drops in a carrier oil (like grapeseed or rice bran) to create your own massage oil. Simply massage into the skin to relax ready for bed.
7. Cedarwood
A calming scent, cedarwood essential oil can provide relief from stress and anxiety. Use this oil before bed to soothe a nervous mind, preparing you for a restful sleep. Renowned as one of the most soothing oils, cedarwood is also good for hair and skin. Dilute a few drops in grapeseed oil and apply it to your hair or face just before bed to enjoy the effects on your body and mind.
While it’s not guaranteed to get you to bed on time, aromatherapy can help to ease you into a more relaxed, better quality sleep. The techniques above will work with any of the oils listed. Why not try a few and see which is your favourite? All the essential oils mentioned are available in our store.
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