Sleep is a vital part of your life, as vital as food or water. Imagine if your body did not sleep and relax for 48 straight hours; it will lower your concentration, lead to daytime drowsiness or a headache and a fussy you! Does not sound good, yeah?

What are the major sleep killers?

Though it the most coveted of conditions, it is often most avoided or sometimes difficult to achieve. (i) Caffeinated drinks, (ii) huge amount of stress and (iii) increased screen time adversely impact the sleep schedule. If you want to beat insomnia and ensure a good night’s sleep, while a high-quality adjustable bed can be extremely helpful, we recommend that you first try out some of the essential oils mentioned on this article. These are nature’s gift to mankind and are being used for ancient years to promote physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. People generally associate it with aromatherapy for relaxation, but essential oils have been proven beneficial for curing digestive problems, bacterial infection, pain…and off course sleep!

Essential oils to fight sleep deprivation

Image credits: botanicalsbyanita.com

Popular oils that help you fall asleep

I have listed a few essential oils for you that you can try and explore the one that works for you and your family or friends.

Lavender

Call it the alpha male of the essential oil family. It is well-known as a flower, its fragrance and its ability to ease all kinds of nervous tension. The soothing smell of lavender can relieve pain, treat respiratory problems, enhance blood circulation and disinfect the skin. There are many studies that prove that lavender is a natural remedy to treat insomnia. In 2015, a study was conducted on 79 college students investigating lavender oil on sleep. The results concluded that it improved their sleep quality with a significant finding of ‘waking feeling refreshed’[1].

Chamomile

There are a variety of Chamomile essential oils namely German Chamomile, Blue Chamomile, Moroccan Chamomile yet the one which is most effective for insomnia and acts as a calming agent is Roman Chamomile. It is an ancient herb that is effective for your digestive system, which means if you think your sleeplessness has some relation with digestive functions, this oil comes in handy. It also helps in reducing sleeplessness caused due to chronic stress, nervous disorders or headaches.

Frankincense

This oil is not only rich in history, with mentions in the Bible, but also filled with nutrients, anti-anxiety, anti-depression and sleep-aid properties. A number of studies have proven that its earthy and uplifting aroma, eases insomnia and pain. In 2016, researchers observed cancer patients and found that 64% patients could sleep easily using aroma sticks with frankincense. Another study in Thailand, dated 2004, testified frankincense as one of the oils reducing both anxiety and pain in women during childbirth.

Peppermint + Eucalyptus

These oils are highly recommended when you have a congestion for cold. They are stimulating and clear your nasal passage and help you get a sound sleep. Plus, they keep you from snoring so works if your sleeplessness is due to a noise-making partner! You can blend it them with Frankincense or Lavender and indulge in a good night’s rest.

Lemon

Lemon is very common for its refreshing fragrance and anti-bacterial property. However, it will add to your knowledge that lemon oil has been an effective sedative on the nervous system with anti-anxiety qualities. Lemon oil is one of the most popular compounds in Brazilian traditional herbal medicines.

Sweet Marjoram

Just like Chamomile, Marjoram is available from different plants and hence there are plenty of them in the sooq. Pick the one with the name ‘Sweet Marjoram’ and sit back to enjoy its soothing and sedating actions. Apart from helping you to sleep, the oil eases hyperactivity while also calms feelings of loneliness, grief and rejection. You can use it as it is or blend it with Lavender or Roman Chamomile to produce an extremely synergistic blend to relieve insomnia.

Bergamot

This is a new and little-known oil that is a gem with sleep-inducing properties. It is a citrus fruit and we all know that citrus fruits are both refreshing and healthy. It balances your emotions and you can rest easily with a serene mind.

Image credits: dolledup.ie

Essential oils uplift your mood, purify the air and create an optimal sleep environment for you to diffuse away. You can either choose a cold diffuser (heat lessens the effect of these oils), place a few drops on your pillow, rub them at the bottom of your feet and toes or even consume them in your favorite drink under the guidance of an aromatherapist. So, what are you waiting for, indulge away in your siesta! [1] https://organixx.com/best-essential-oils-for-sleep/

Comodo SSL