Insomnia, sleep disturbances and essential oils

Millions of people worldwide experience minor to major sleep disturbances and/or insomnia and these have a huge negative impact on their physical and mental health.

Certain essential oils may assist in naturally bettering the quality of your sleep. The following essential oils can be used: Lavender, Bergamot, Roman Chamomile, Cedarwood and Clary Sage.

It goes without saying that when using essential oils for sleep, one also needs to practice good sleep hygiene techniques. You can’t for example expect essential oils to work if you drink coffee before you sleep, so try drinking herbal tea rather. It is also essential to avoid screen time (especially watching stimulating programmes, gaming or working on your computer) at least an hour before bed time.

 

Lavender oil calms the nervous system down and has been found to assist with the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone. Research shows that it has a positive effect on people with insomnia. It can be placed onto your pillow or into a diffuser so that you inhale it while you sleep, or it can be put into massage oil and rubbed into the skin or a few drops can be added to your bath water.

 

Bergamot has calming properties and is most effective when used with Ylang Ylang and Lavender. It can be inhaled or used in a diffuser throughout the room.

Roman Chamomile oil is effective in reducing anxiety. Anxiety and sleep disturbances often go hand in hand. Roman Chamomile is used for sleep problems when mixed with Lavender and Neroli. This blend works best when inhaled.

Cedarwood contains a chemical compound called cedrol that has a sedative effect. It activated the parasympathetic nervous system. Cedarwood needs to be used for a minimum of 20 consecutive days to see the benefits. Inhalation works best.

Clary Sage has an anti-depressant effect and reduces cortisol levels. It also reduces anxiety which leads to better sleep. Inhalation is the best way to use it.

We hope that the use of some of the oils above can assist you to have many peaceful nights’ sleep!

This article is written for educational and informational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This product and the information provided has not been evaluated by a medical professional and any actions taken based on the provided information is at your own risk. Essentoils bears no liability for the blends recommended above.