Sleep is an essential human function that is important for physical and mental well-being. How much sleep is enough varies from person to person, but most adults need seven to eight hours a night. Insomnia is a sleep disorder that regularly affects millions of people worldwide.
The sleeping disorder can undermine school and work performance, as well as contributing to obesity, anxiety, depression, irritability, concentration problems, memory problems, poor immune system function, and reduced reaction time.
In some cases, over-the-counter medications may be required. However, these medications are intended for short term use and may become addictive, cause adverse side effects or leave users feeling groggy the next morning.
To avoid these side effects, many individuals are turning to natural remedies such as aromatherapy for sleep deprivation or insomnia.
Essential oils can act by triggering the central nervous system and circulatory system to promote sleep in the body.
Cedarwood Essential Oil for Sleep
A valuable quality of cedarwood essential oil is its natural sedative property. Inhalation of cedrol was shown to decrease heart rate, diastolic and systolic blood pressure of the participants. Since the results indicated modifications in the autonomic nervous system, cedarwood essential oil is believed to have a soothing effect, making it an effective essential oil for sleep.
Lavender Oil for Sleep
There are several benefits of lavender essential oil including its sedative, anti-anxiety and stress reducing properties. Using lavender essential oil for sleep may help slow down the central nervous system activity, reduced anxiety and improve overall mood.
Neroli Essential Oil for Sleep
The benefits of neroli essential oil include having sedative, anti-anxiety and calming properties. A 2013 study combined a mixture of lavender, neroli and chamomile essential oils to examine the impact of aromatherapy on the quality of sleep among participants in an intensive care unit. Patients were instructed to inhale the aroma for several minutes. The mixture was then applied to a stone and placed under the patient’s pillowcase overnight.
Results indicate that subjects in the experiment group demonstrated improved sleep quality, compared to the control group.
Chamomile Essential Oil for Sleep
A well-known benefit of chamomile essential oil is its sedative quality. In a 2010 study, chamomile essential oil was observed to decrease levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), a by-product of stress. This may help users feel more relaxed, making it easier to fall asleep.