Sleep. It’s something we all need to remain healthy and fit, but for most of us in short supply. Bed time can be an uphill battle, whether it’s stress, anxiety or just a overworked mind. I’ve been there — lying wide awake in bed, thinking about whether I’ll ever sleep well again. Then I discovered lavender essential oil. It’s not a miracle, but it’s done more for me than I expected it would. And you can be benefitted too. Wondering how to use lavender essential oil for sleep?
How Lavender Oil Helps You Sleep
Lavender is more than just a pretty flower. It has been used for centuries to soothe nerves and induce relaxation. This is also backed by modern science. Research indicates that sleep benefits of lavender oil include decreased anxiety, lowered heart rate and improved sleep quality. The secret is in its natural compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate. Add them to that list and they work on your brain to feel calm and ready for bed.
A few months ago I started using lavender oil. At first, I wasn’t certain if it would work. But after one week of diffusing it at night, I felt the difference. I drifted off more quickly and stayed asleep longer. It wasn’t a radical shift, but it was enough to convert me.
How to Pick the Right Lavender Oil
All Lavender oils are not created equal. Some are pure, others combined with synthetic fragrances or other oils. If you want to make it most effective, use lavender essential oil that is 100% pure. You should do well to look for labels such as “therapeutic grade” or “100 percent pure”, which can guarantee that you are dealing with genuine products.
I have learned this the hard way. My first lavender-oil bottle cost me only a few bucks, and while it had a pleasant scent, it didn’t help me sleep. I now only use reputable brands like doTERRA, Young Living or Plant Therapy. They cost a little more, but they’re worth the price.
How To Use Lavender Essential Oil for Sleep
Here are several ways to use lavender oil for your sleep:
Essential Lavender Oil Diffuser
One of the simplest ways to experience the soothing effect offered by lavender oil is to diffuse it. Put a few drops of lavender oil into your diffuser roughly half an hour before sleeping. The delicate fragrance would serve in the air of your room, creating an ambiance for you to relax and enjoy.
Using Lavender Essential Oil for Sleep
There are so many different ways to use the lavender oil to promote sleep. Here are some of the most successful ways.
Lavender Essential Oil Diffuser
One of the most popular ways to utilize lavender oil is to place it in a diffuser. About half an hour before you hit the sack, place a few drops of lavender oil into the diffuser. It will create a soothing atmosphere in your room already conducive to rest from the soft floral aroma.
How to Apply Lavender Oil on the Body
Lavender oil can also be applied directly to the body without a diffuser. Mingle (Few drops) of oil with carrier oil, and apply to temples, wrists, and soles of feet. With this routine bedtime ritual, you can enjoy the soothing qualities of lavender oil and this will greatly enhance sleep quality.
Lavender oil remedies—applying it on Pillow
And another simple solution is simply applying a bit of lavender oil on your pillow. Add a drop or two into the corners of your pillowcase. This will assist in soaking away the day’s drudgery and stress and help you fall asleep, thanks to the calming aroma of Lavender oil. Just be careful about how much you apply, as this can stain your pillow.
Lavender Oil Spray for Sleeping (Homemade Version)
It can also be prepared in spray form. Mix 10-15 drops of lavender oil with water into a spray bottle. Shake well and mist over pillow, sheets, or even the room. This is perhaps the most powerful sleep-aid home remedy and it is quite simple to make and use.
Lavender Oil for Stress
If stress is troubling you, and keeping awake at night, it’s time to mix lavender with other healing agents. It is highly recommended to take a warm bath a few hours before bed with a little essential oil, like lavender oil. Warm water soothes your muscles and the soothing fragrance guarantees that you fall asleep as soon as you hit the bed.
Aromatherapy for Insomnia
You can cure insomnia with aromatherapy by using Laver oil along with other oils—like chamomile, bergamot, or cedarwood—for an even more potent impact. The use of essential oils with aromatherapy is the most effective natural remedy to have peaceful nights as it promotes deep sleep.
Lavender Oil Bedtime Routine
Meditation can help you fall asleep. And as you continue doing that every night before sleep, your body and mind will prepare yourself for sleep. Then diffuse lavender oil, rub it on your skin before you hit the sack. Screens should be turned off and the bed room should be free from any kind of noise.
How Does Lavender Oil Affect Sleep?
Lavender oil has been demonstrated to improve sleep quality and lower anxiety and depression that cause insomnia. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine has published an article stating that people who inhale lavender oil before sleeping have a better sleep and wake up calm and relaxed in the morning.
Lavender Oil for Various Types of Sleep Disorders
For Insomnia
If you experience insomnia, diffuse lavender oil in your bedroom 30 minutes before going to sleep. You can also put it on your wrists or temples to soothe your mind.
For Restless Nights
If you wake up during the night, keep a lavender oil sleep spray close to your bed. A quick spray on your pillow will make it easier for you to go back to sleep.
Recipes for DIY lavender oil for sleep
Here are three easy recipes to use lavender oil in your nighttime routine:
Lavender Sleep Spray
10-15 drops of lavender oil
1 cup of distilled water
1 tablespoon witch hazel (for mixing with water, optional)
In a spray bottle, combine all of the ingredients and shake well. Spray on your pillow and sheets before bedtime.
Lavender Bath Salts
1 cup of Epsom salt
10 drops of lavender oil
5 drops of chamomile oil(Optional):
Combine the ingredients and store in a jar. Toss a handful in your bathwater for a soothing soak.
Lavender Pillow Mist
5 drops of lavender oil
1/2 cup of water
1 teaspoon rubbing alcohol (to help the oil disperse)
Mix in a spray bottle and lightly mist your pillow before bed.
How to use Lavender Essential Oil for Sleep
Here are some FAQs to help you learn more about using lavender oil for sleep:
Should I apply lavender oil directly to my skin?
Yes, you may dilute it with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil, which will help you avoid skin irritation and allows the oil to penetrate.
How long does it take lavender oil to work for sleep?
That differs from one person to another. Some will notice a difference immediately; for others, it takes a week or two of regular use.
Can lavender oil be used for children’s sleep?
Yes, but sparingly and always in a diluted form. Lavender oil is considered safe for children in general, but it’s always a good idea to ask a pediatrician first.
How should lavender oil be used for stress and sleep?
Lavender oil works even better when combined with deep breathing technique, meditation or warm bath.
Does Lavender oil have any side effects?
For most individuals, lavender oil is safe; mild skin irritations and allergic reactions have been reported by a few. Before using it on a large area, however, make sure to do a patch test.
Conclusion
Lavender essential oil is a great option for people with sleep disorder. It’s not a miracle solution, but it’s a straightforward, natural method that can make a difference in your sleep quality. If you teach yourself how to use Lavendefr essential oil for sleep, you will be hugely benefitted. Diffusing it, as well as applying it onto your skin or creating a DIY sleep spray in your home, lavender oil will help you unwind and sleep more quickly.
If you have sleep problems, try lavender oil. It may be the natural sleep aid you’ve been looking for. Have a good night’s rest!