Scents that can ease tensions and promote better sleep
On World Sleep Day, here's a list of scents that will help promote more restful sleep.
A couple of years ago, we published a story about essential oils and asked readers what kind of scenes they would like to set via scents. More than half of respondents indicated that easing tensions in the room is one of their top interests – what high-stress places we reside/work in!
So it got us thinking – and the fact that it's World Sleep Day today, 15 March 2024 – on how sleep is important to help us regulate our emotions and allow our bodies to heal from the stresses of the day. And so, we're back with a new list of essential oils to promote better sleep.
Since telling someone to "just close your eyes and sleep" might have the opposite effect, perhaps we should approach this in a more subtle way, by introducing peace and restful vibes into the room with essential oils such as these.
Cedarwood
Apart from smelling like Christmas is near, Cedarwood is said to support the function of the pineal gland, which releases melatonin, the hormone that promotes good sleep. One of the key benefits of cedarwood essential oil is its calming and grounding effect on the mind and body. When diffused or applied topically, it can help promote relaxation and reduce feelings of stress and tension. Many people find it particularly beneficial for creating a peaceful atmosphere during meditation or relaxation practices.
Get Cedarwood essential oil here
Clary Sage
Not to be mistaken for Lavendar, Clary Sage is a sedative and relaxant by nature, and supposedly comes with anticonvulsive, antidepressant, antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Its soothing aroma helps to relax the mind and body, easing feelings of stress and tension. Diffusing clary sage oil before bedtime or adding a few drops to a warm bath can create a tranquil atmosphere conducive to a peaceful night's rest. Additionally, applying diluted clary sage oil to pulse points or using it in massage blends can enhance its sleep-inducing effects.
Get Clary Sage essential oil here
Frankincense
Frankincense is made from the resin of the Boswellia tree, and its woody and pleasant aroma make it a popular choice of scent. Frankincense is used to balance emotions, calm the mind, and may even be able to support the body's response to healing, in addition to promoting sleep.
Traditional medicine has used frankincense to treat bronchitis and asthma for centuries.
Get Frankincense essential oil here
Lavender
The go-to for sleep-related uses, Lavender is known for its calming effects, and is an herb practically synonymous with restful sleep. Its gentle floral scent has a calming effect on the mind, helping to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of tranquility. Diffusing lavender oil in the bedroom before bedtime creates a soothing environment conducive to sleep. Alternatively, adding a few drops to a pillow or using it in a bedtime massage oil can enhance its sleep-inducing benefits. Lavender oil's natural sedative properties make it a beloved choice for those seeking peaceful and rejuvenating slumber.
Fun fact, did you know that Lavender is a type of mint?
Get Lavender essential oil here
Roman chamomile
You might know the German chamomile better, which is often used in the tea you drink before bed. For a scent that'll help you sleep better, the Roman Chamomile is known for its sedative qualities, and is even touted to soothe anger and irritability. Its sweet, apple-like aroma has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to soothe anxiety and induce a sense of calm.
Get Roman chamomile essential oils here
Patchouli
Let's talk about patchouli essential oil – the bold, earthy powerhouse that doesn't mess around when it comes to sleep. This ain't lavender, honey. Patchouli's got attitude! Its deep, musky scent brings a touch of sass to your bedtime routine, easing you into a state of relaxation like no other. Drop some in your diffuser and let it work its magic, or mix a few drops with a carrier oil for a massage that'll have you drifting off in no time.
Get Patchouli essential oil here
Vetiver
Vetiver essential oil offers a deeply calming and grounding aroma, making it an excellent choice for promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality. Its earthy scent helps to quiet the mind and ease feelings of stress and anxiety, creating a serene atmosphere ideal for bedtime. Its deep, earthy aroma brings serious grounding vibes, like a big hug from Mother Nature herself. Vetiver's all about helping you unwind after a long day, melting away stress and tension with every inhale.
Get Vetiver essential oil here
Ylang Ylang
A common fragrance which has found a wide variety of usage, Ylang-ylang features prominently in spa products, and for good reasons why. The smell of ylang-ylang oil is said to be good for stress relief, sedation, as well as memory and thinking skills. Traditionally, it was even employed as an aphrodisiac.
Whether you're diffusing it in your bedroom or adding a drop to your pillow, ylang ylang sets the stage for sweet dreams and waking up refreshed. Say hello to relaxation in a bottle with ylang ylang essential oil!
Get Ylang Ylang essential oils here
Spikenard
Less common than some of the other oils on the list, spikenard is a plant in the Valerian family, collectively known for its sedative properties. It's used mostly in aromatherapy for relaxation, and in ancient times, was costly and prized as an anointment oil.
It offers a natural and effective way to unwind and promote a sense of peace and relaxation, making it a valuable addition to any bedtime routine.
Get Spikenard essential oil here
Rose
Another widely-used fragrance in various products, even food and drinks, rose essential oil repeatedly appears in studies demonstrating the ability to trigger relaxation and relieve anxiety.
When it comes to sleep, rose oil's calming and comforting fragrance works wonders. Its rich floral notes help to soothe the mind, alleviate stress, and promote a sense of relaxation. Diffusing rose oil in the bedroom before bedtime creates a serene ambiance conducive to restful sleep.
Sleep well and carry on!
Check out Biolife essential oils range here!
