A restful night of sleep is virtually priceless, contributing to a better quality of life and long-lasting health. With our modern-day lifestyles and stresses, however, proper sleep hygiene has become something of a luxury for many. The inhalation or application of Bulk Carrier Oils can provide a safe and effective natural solution to help individuals wind down, relax, and ultimately enable quality sleep for optimal health and rejuvenation.
Historical accounts are rife with ancient botanical remedies used to induce sedative or hypnotic states. The ancient Greeks, for instance, were believed to infuse their pillows with fragrant Thyme to prepare the mind for sleep and shield themselves against nightmares. The ancient Roman physician Galen prescribed the Valerian plant to correct sleep disorders, which (perhaps interestingly!) produces a remarkably pungent and unpleasant smelling oil that was claimed to have sedative powers. Hops, the flowers or cones of the Hop plant, were also reputed to be a potent sleep aid and often combined with Valerian to overcome insomnia.
The energetic and psychological influence of pure essential oils have also long been known. These volatile essences, extracted carefully from botanical sources such as leaves, flowering tops, bark, and resin, contain potent active compounds that can nudge the mind and body towards calming, soothing, and uplifting states when used. In aromatherapy, essential oils are thought to help with sleep through a number of routes:
- Naturally lulling the senses and levels of alertness, causing mild sedation
- Promoting inner relaxation and reducing stress, fear, and worry
- Balancing the emotions or mind to improve the mood
- Soothing the body to help overcome fatigue, pain, or bodily tension
- Relieving the body of restlessness and agitation (especially in children)
Essential oils belong to scent families that are known to share commonalities in their therapeutic properties. As a general guideline, the scents of flowers (such as Rose and Lavender) are often associated with happiness, self-care, and relaxation. These can promote sleep by encouraging a restful mood that reduces nervousness, stress, and hyperawareness. Citrus scents (such as Bergamot) tend to have cheerful and uplifting effects, harmonizing the mind and body by countering any sadness or melancholy. Earthy scents (such as Frankincense) tend to be warming and centering, grounding our mental and physical states so that we become truly relaxed rather than lost in frightful memories or anxieties. Despite these commonalities, each essential oil is inherently unique due to their natural origins, made up of thousands of different constituents that give rise to their complex effects.
A popular question posed by essential oil users seem to be: what are the most effective essential oils for sleep and relaxation? We’ve compiled a list of the top essential oils that are reputed to induce a relaxed state of mind for optimal sleep, along with tips and ideas on how best to use them!
SUGGESTED ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND RECIPES FOR SLEEP
The following aromatherapy blends can be used to create enticing and synergistic aromas that work naturally as an aid for sleep. They can be diffused, massaged onto the body following appropriate dilution, or added to the bath for a relaxing self-care ritual.
Sultry Sleep Blend – to fade away worry and escape from stress
- Jasmine Absolute – 3 drops
- Rose Absolute – 1 drop
- Sandalwood Essential Oil – 2 drops
Heavenly Florals Blend – to create a peaceful, enchanting, garden-like ambience
- Neroli Essential Oil – 2 drops
- Lavender Essential Oil – 2 drops
- Ylang Ylang Essential Oil – 2 drops
Sacred Sleep Blend – to clear the mind and soothe nervousness
- Lavender Essential Oil – 4 drops
- Frankincense Essential Oil – 3 drops
- Sweet Orange Essential Oil – 2 drops
Sweet Dreams Blend – to encourage positive thoughts and stifle fearful dreams
- Roman Chamomile Essential Oil – 5 drops
- Bergamot Essential Oil – 3 drops
- Frankincense Essential Oil – 1 drop
CAUTIONS & ESSENTIAL OILS SAFETY
It is important to note that the information above is intended to be a resource for self-care and general relaxation and is not intended to treat any medical or mental health conditions. An appropriate licensed or registered health professional should be consulted for diagnosing or treating any medical or mental disorders.
It is important to enjoy the benefits of essential oils while using them safely and responsibly. This includes never using them undiluted, performing a skin patch test prior to use, being knowledgeable about the sun’s effects after use, and sourcing them from an ethical brand known for quality and purity.
External use only
As with all other New Directions Aromatics products, essential oils are for external use only. Essential oils must never be used near the eyes, inner nose, and ears, or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin. It is imperative to consult a medical practitioner before using these oils for therapeutic purposes.
Phototoxicity
Avoid sun exposure for a minimum of 12 hours after topically applying Bergamot Essential Oil.
Pregnancy and other health conditions
Pregnant and nursing women are especially advised not to use essential oils without the medical advice of a physician.
Those with the following health conditions are especially recommended to consult the advice of a physician: cancer, heart-related ailments, skin disorders or allergies, hormone-related ailments, or epilepsy.
Individuals that are taking prescription drugs, undergoing major surgery, or who are at a greater risk of experiencing strokes, heart attacks, or atherosclerosis are also advised to seek medical consultation prior to use.
Children and safety
These oils should always be stored in an area that is inaccessible to children, especially those under the age of seven.
How to conduct a skin patch test
Prior to using any essential oil, a skin test is recommended. This can be done by diluting 1 drop of the essential oil in 4 drops of carrier oil and applying a dime-size amount of this blend to a small area of non-sensitive skin.
Essential Oil side effects
Potential side effects of essential oils include redness, rash, hives, burning, bleeding disorders, decreased speed of healing, low blood pressure, dizziness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, convulsions, and rapid heartbeat. In the event of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of the products and see a doctor, pharmacist, or allergist immediately for a health assessment and appropriate remedial action. To prevent side effects, consult with a medical professional prior to use.