5 Essential Oils for Sleep and Relaxation

A good night's sleep is of utmost importance; anyone with insomnia will surely attest to this. There is no substitute for a restful night's sleep. But with the building pressure of modern-day life, getting through the night can be difficult. The body reacts to stress and struggles when things aren't right, whether your blood pressure is high or there are issues at work or home. But natural ways can make you sleep better through the night.

Certain essential oils can put you quickly to sleep if used correctly and in the right amounts! Essential oils are the essence or scent of a specific plant that has been extracted. Some essential oils help you to relax, wind down and achieve better sleep. It usually takes a few drops of essential oil to see the effectiveness. Below are a few oils that can be applied to the skin for relaxation and better sleep.

 

5 ESSENTIAL OILS FOR SLEEP AND RELAXATION

“Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender Essential oil is one of the most renowned essential oils to induce sleep. It is made up of profoundly relaxing components. It has proven beneficial in treating insomnia, reducing anxiety, and enhancing sleep.

How to use: One can use it by applying a few drops of coconut oil and massaging it on your skin before bedtime. It can also be used as aromatherapy by adding a few drops to your bedtime bath.

“Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Ylang lang essential is extracted from the Cananga tree, a native to Asia and South Pacific rainforests. The oil's fragrance is very famous for its calming properties. The soft compounds in the oil are highly beneficial in releasing stress and tension from your muscles. They also benefit us by soothing our minds and helping us achieve a night of peaceful sleep.

How to use:

Blend a few drops of ylang-ylang essential oil with coconut oil and massage it on your shoulders and skin each night.

“Patchouli Essential Oil

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) oil is extracted from the bushy perennial herb resembling lavender and native to tropical climates. It has a deep, earthy, musky aroma that can be very strong, so apply it only a little. Patchouli oil has components that boost your mood by chasing away anxiety, sadness, and any negative feelings. It also has sedative properties which induce relaxation and encourage sound sleep.

How to Use:

Patchouli is a well-known aphrodisiac due to its strong musky fragrance. Combine two drops of Patchouli essential oil, three drops of Sweet Orange essential oil, and one drop of jasmine essential oil, along with Two tablespoons of sweet grapefruit or coconut oil. You can massage it in your body, and you'll surely drift off into a warm, peaceful sleep.

“Clary Sage Essential Oil

Your poor sleep patterns may be caused by an elevated cortisol level. Cortisol affects circadian rhythm and keeps your brain active even when sleeping, which explains why. Clary sage essential oil's antidepressant properties lower cortisol levels and support a regular sleep pattern. Clary sage is a herb that is indigenous to southern Europe. It is frequently used the same way as the well-known dried herb sage, despite not being the same plant. Some people use Clara sage essential oil for its highly beneficial sleep-promoting properties. According to studies, clary sage oil has an antidepressant effect. Clary sage oil can be an excellent choice if your anxiety keeps you from falling asleep and you like the scent of herbs.

How to use:

 Apply a few drops of Clary Sage Essential Oil to your hands, feet, neck, chest, and forehead before retiring to bed. Your mind will be calmed by this essential oil's sedative properties, aiding in a restful night's sleep. Don't forget to first dilute it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or sweet almond oil.

“Chamomile Essential Oil

Chamomile, which is usually famous for drinking as chamomile tea before bed, is also very beneficial for aiding sleep. The Chamomile essential oil has stress-relieving qualities and is usually used directly on the bottom of the feet. Chamomile essential oil is a mild tranquilizer and acts as a sleep inducer. It is beneficial for calming nerves, easing headaches, and aiding relaxation. It targets the same area of the brain and nervous system as common anti-anxiety drugs do. It can also be used as a diffuser after a tiring day. Soothing anger, irritability, and agitation are also a few other benefits of this magical oil.

How to use: Mix a few drops of chamomile essential oil in your favorite moisturizer and use it on your skin in the evening or before bed. This mix will help you relax and unwind.

As you're using essential oil, always pay attention to how you're feeling or if there is any reaction, as each oil reacts differently with each person. The right ones will relax you and put you to sleep instantly, But some might make you irritable. Hence always do a patch test and then include it in your daily routine.

FAQ

1. Does using essential oils have any side effects?

You won't encounter any side effects if you use essential oils to sleep correctly. However, before using it for massages or other topical applications, if you have sensitive skin, perform a patch test on your elbow.

2. What are the most effective ways to use essential oils for sleep?

The best ways to take essential oils for sleep are by directly inhaling them, diffusing them using a diffuser, and applying them on your skin after dilution.

3. How long will essential oil last?

All essential oils have a shelf life of up to three years. However, citrus ones are prone to oxidation and expire within two years.

4. Where to apply essential oil for sleep?

You can apply an essential oil topically on the different pressure points of the body, like the wrist, temple, ear, back of the neck, or feet.

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