Insomnia is a common problem worldwide. At the same time, individuals become loose-tempered due to poor sleep. Insomnia has a wide range of negative consequences for health. A stressful modern lifestyle, gadgets, and an increase in sleep-related problems are some of the causes. Many sleep aids are commercially available that claim to help with this problem, but many have negative effects.

Life appears to be busier than ever, so getting enough rest is necessary. Many people use essential oils to soothe their minds and prevent insomnia. If you need a little help heading to bed, these fragrances might be the ticket. Essential oils have a natural, healthy effect on sleep that is one of their most significant benefits.

How do essential oils works?

Our sense of smell is linked to memory and emotional areas in the brain. The olfactory nerve sends information to the brain from cells inside the nose that sense smells in our surroundings. The brain’s limbic system, which comprises the amygdala that regulates emotions and memory, receives information about the smell.

 Best essential oil for insomnia

1. Lavender essential oil

You will probably do almost everything to get rest if you’ve been up all night counting flocks of sheep. Fortunately, the history of sending individuals to dreamland is fantastic for lavender. Lavender has been studied extensively for its potential health benefits. It has been demonstrated to improve sleep quality and relieve symptoms of mild insomnia and restlessness when used as an essential oil[1].

2. Jasmine essential oil

 Jasmine has a lovely floral smell and appears to have sleep-inducing solid properties. According to studies, jasmine enhances sleep quality and reduces restless sleeping while also enhancing daily alertness. In a 2018 study, jasmine was finding to be even more beneficial than lavender in providing all of these sleep advantages and reducing anxiety[2].

3. Eucalyptus essential oil

Eucalyptus oil has a naturally calming scent as well as powerful sinus-clearing qualities. If you have a sleeping problem due to excessive mucus production, eucalyptus oil has the double benefit of calming you while also alleviating your congestion, allowing you to get the rest you need[3].

4. Peppermint essential oil

Peppermint oil is not a typical sleep aid, but it effectively promotes relaxation by clearing your mind, both literally and figuratively. Peppermint oil has a pleasing perfume that can be calming, but if you suffer from allergy symptoms or dirt sensitivity, it can relieve your symptoms better or faster. Once you are fully relieved from the painful nasal passages, you will suddenly fall away and fall asleep.

5. Bergamot essential oil

Many people are familiar with the energizing effects of citrus fruits and oils like lemon, but bergamot has a remarkable impact while being in the citrus family. It aids in the slowing of the heart rate, the reduction of blood pressure, and the reduction of anxiety[5]. It’s no surprise that people use it to sleep—bergamot has better sleep quality.

How to use essential oil for insomnia?

Some ways to use essential oil for insomnia are,

• Take an Aroma bath by adding essential oil with a teaspoon of carrier oil, such as almond oil, jojoba oils, or a scentless bath gel. Just before entering, add the mixture to the warm bathwater.
• Sprinkle essential oil spray on the bed-linen or pillow cover before sleeping
• Add few drops of essential oil to the diffuser; the aroma will diffuse around the room.
• Massage with essential oil at the back of the neck or forehead.

Bottom-line

Essential oils may have some advantages as a natural remedy. Many people use essential oil that helps them to sleep better at night. Always follow safety measures while using essential oils for insomnia or any other condition. It’s also a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before using them.

References:

• Fismer, Kate Louise, and Karen Pilkington. “Lavender and sleep: A systematic review of the evidence.” European Journal of Integrative Medicine 4.4 (2012): e436-e447.
• Widayati, Happy Restu, Retno Indarwati, and Erna Dwi Wahyuni. “The Influence of Jasmine Essential Oil Through Foot Submersion and Inhalation Method in Elderly Sleep Quality and Quantity.” (2018).
• Dhakad, Ashok K., et al. “Biological, medicinal and toxicological significance of Eucalyptus leaf essential oil: a review.” Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 98.3 (2018): 833-848.
• Mahdavikian, Somayeh, et al. “Comparing the effect of aromatherapy with peppermint and lavender on the sleep quality of cardiac patients: a randomized controlled trial.” Sleep Science and Practice 4.1 (2020): 1-8.
• Watanabe, Eri, et al. “Effects of bergamot (Citrus bergamia (Risso) Wright & Arn.) essential oil aromatherapy on mood states, parasympathetic nervous system activity, and salivary cortisol levels in 41 healthy females.” Complementary Medicine Research 22.1 (2015): 43-49.