Most of us have struggled and still struggle to sleep or stay asleep at night. If you are on the same boat, then you might want to consider aromatherapy as a safe alternative to pharmaceutical interventions for mild sleep disturbances.
You might be wondering, “what is aromatherapy?” Simply put, it is the use of aromatic plant extracts and essential oils for healing and cosmetic purposes.
A study published by The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine has shown that inhalation of essential oils may be considered for people with mild sleep disturbances. Lavender was the most frequently studied essential oil and is ultimately the most common sleep-inducing oil. Researchers discovered that lavender facilitates restful sleep by increasing slow-wave sleep, which is critical for slowing heart rate and muscle relaxation.
Lavender is originally a Mediterranean evergreen vine that has spread across Europe. It was grown widely in the 13th and 14th centuries, both for its visually appealing appearance and medicinal properties. Today, lavender is cultivated all over the world and its oil is the swiss-army knife of essential oils because it is used for a number of ailments, including hair loss and infections.
Our Tranquility Essential Oil blend is one of our all-time faves. It is a blend of soothing and essential lavender and tangerine oils that will help you sleep easier. The nose-crinkling, mouth-watering, tangy scent of tangerine easily blends with the floral and sweet scent of lavender to promote relaxation, soothe anxious feelings and help with stress-induced insomnia.
But how do you use it?
There are different ways you can use essential oils: in your bath, shower, diluted on your skin (beware of skin sensitivities) or with different inhalation methods.
Today, the inhalation method most used is with diffusers and humidifiers. All you need to do is add a few drops of your essential oil into your device’s water tank, wait for it to evaporate, and inhale the benefits of your oil. Check out our guide to caring for your skin during winter to learn more about the benefits of having a humidifier.
The next inhalation method consists of simply inhaling your oil using the steam method: the inhalation of vapour water. Add drops of your essential oil to a bowl of hot water, place a towel over your head and the bowl, close your eyes and deeply inhale the steam for several minutes.
The dry evaporation method consists of pouring drops of your essential oil on a dry material such as a cotton ball, fabric or your pillowcase. Inhale or let the smell spread spontaneously.
You may add a few drops to your bathroom walls and inhale deeply when showering to inhale essential oils. Alternatively, blend a few drops of liquid essential oil into a wet washcloth to use for inhalation and gentle exfoliation. You may also add it to your salt or bubble bath water but before doing so, dilute them with a carrier oil as it is not recommended to apply essential oils directly to the skin.
Note that essential oils are not recommended for pregnant women, pets and children. We encourage you to do your research or consult with your doctor.
Check out one of our Essential Oil blends’ reviews
Disclaimer: We do not claim to be licensed skin specialists or any type of medical professionals. The information provided in or through our Website pertaining to your health or wellness or any other aspect of your life is for information only and is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider.
Photo credits
Essential oil with dropper - Photo by Anshu A on Unsplash
Lavender fields - Photo by Gemma Evans on Unsplash