We cannot stress enough about the importance and value of sleep. Most people do not acknowledge the advantages of getting undisturbed and peaceful hours of sleep. It refreshes our whole body and mood, thereby increasing our brain function. Not only does sleeping make one more productive but also- improves the quality of mental and physical health.
We all can agree- how busy schedules have disrupted our lives, especially sleep. Nevertheless, most individuals do not comply with this fact and ignore their sleep. While these people struggle with daily activities, their well-being is compromised because of insufficient rest. It has led to increased cases of stress, anxiety, aggression, depleted body health, and whatnot.
Nature has countless ways to shift our sleeping schedules back on track. We have herbs and plants that are efficient in providing relaxation and sedating qualities. Thus, providing us the perfect state to sleep. However, while we learn how essential oils can help us sleep, it is crucial to know whether or not they can induce sedation. Let us find it out!
Can essential oils help you sleep?
Scientific studies are still limited on the uses of essential oils. However, general usage and benefits of using them are common among individuals. From improving immunity to reducing anxiety, these oils help maintain our lifestyles in numerous ways. Not only this, they provide relaxing and calming effects to the mind for better sleep.
How do essential oils make you fall asleep?
Essential oils are concentrated chemical liquids that have a characteristic strong fragrance. This fragrance impacts the olfactory center (system for smelling) and limbic system in the brain. When someone inhales the smell of essential oils, its molecules reach the brain and influence it in many ways.
Apart from this, essential oils trigger the brain to release neurotransmitters- serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals are associated with happiness and elevated mood. They help the body become calm and relaxed. On the other hand, serotonin initiates the production of melatonin, a hormone responsible for making you fall asleep.
Which essential oils are good for inducing sedation?
Essential oils are an effective, natural alternative to improve your sleep. Their calming and soothing properties will provide a suitable environment for your mind to relax and fall asleep. Some helpful oils to tackle sleepless nights are—
- CBD oil
Certain essential oils are potent sedating agents. They aid the sleeping process and improve the quality of sleep. Oils like- Lavender oil, eucalyptus oil, CBD oil, and many others can potentially make you fall asleep. Most sleep-deprived minds also use CBD for sleep and receive appreciable results. But, how do these oils help us in sleeping? Keep reading to know.
- Lavender oil
Lavender oil is a phenomenal relaxing and calming product. Its versatile nature helps with sleep and keeps insomnia at bay. Significant studies found this oil to assess the individual to have sound and peaceful sleep. Apart from this, lavender oil has anxiolytic properties that ultimately aids the brain to sleep sooner.
- Chamomile oil
Chamomile flowers are known for relaxing and de-stressing. The subtle aroma of this oil directly impacts the olfactory nerve and other areas of the brain, ultimately leading to sleepiness. Not only the oil but also a tea brewed by its petals are an effective treatment for anxiety and insomnia.
- Sandalwood oil
Even though it is an expensive oil, its scent is among the strongest and most relaxing. It calms anxious thoughts and paces down heartbeats to provide a calming perception to the body. Its unique characteristics unwind all the tensions in your mind and loosen your body to fall asleep faster.
How to use essential oil for sleeping?
Essential oils can take care of your sleeping problems. However, it is crucial to know its correct way of usage. Before moving on to how one can use these oils, one should know how not to use them. Because these oils are concentrated liquids, one must not ingest them. It is highly disapproved to consume any essential oil. Ways to use them are—
- Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses the molecular essence of natural oils to benefit the body in numerous ways. Adding 3-4 drops of essential oil into a diffuser will disperse its fragrance into the air. When an individual breathes this fragrant air, their senses are revived. The effects work on the brain to calm it down and soothe mental discomfort.
- Topical application
Essential oils are also applied on the skin topically. However, it is highly recommended to mix them with a carrier oil or body lotion for dilution. The high compound concentration in essential oils can irritate the skin in its pure forms. To benefit from their relaxing and calming qualities, one can apply it on their forehead, temples of their face, wrists, etc.
What are the precautions of using an essential oil?
Although essential oils are a natural product, their strong chemical and reactive nature can cause adverse effects to some individuals. Essential oils are even sensitive when exposed to sunlight. So, abstain from stepping out in the Sun after applying these oils to your skin. To understand if an oil suits your skin or not, you can perform a simple patch test.
Pregnant women and children are advised to use essential oils with care and precaution. Moreover, one should consult a doctor in case any side effect persists. These effects include—
- Headaches
- Rashes
- Allergic reactions
- Cough
- Nausea
- Skin irritation
On the other hand, using essential oils could be inconvenient for individuals with a specific medical condition. Patients who struggle with the following conditions should avoid using essential oils.
- Asthma
- High blood pressure
- Eczema
- Sensitive skin
- Psoriasis
- Other Skin/Respiratory issues
Other ways of inducing sedation.
Essential oils can be a productive addition to various ailments. However, not everyone finds them efficient for correcting their sleeping schedules. Other alternatives may assist in inducing better and improved sleep. They are—
- Meditation
- Exercise
- Music
- Adjusting your eating schedules
- Avoiding naps during the day
- Sleep in comfortable, loose clothes
- Switching off all the lights
- Skip checking social media when in bed
Conclusion.
Sleeping on time could be an impossible thing to achieve. However, it is possible with the right tricks and techniques. Essential oils may assist one to achieve a relaxed mood that readily makes one falls asleep. These oils are a natural remedy that is not a prescription medication for sleeping issues. Nevertheless, it cannot benefit sleeping disorders like sleep apnea. If you experience consistent sleeping issues, it is safe to consult a healthcare specialist for the best treatment.