Most of us have had nights when it has been difficult to get to sleep. For most people, it is an occasional problem that does not continue past a few nights. For some however; the problem persists and may begin to interfere with daytime activities. There is a wide selection of sleeping aids available both over the counter and through prescription, but for those who prefer natural remedies without the side effects of traditional treatments for insomnia, the use of essential oils can help you to get the relief you need. By learning the causes of insomnia, the properties of natural essential oils and how they can improve specific symptoms, you’ll learn how you can benefit from using them without the fear of side effects or health risks from long term use.
Causes of insomnia
Stresses and anxieties can develop from being a part of the fast paced world we live and work in today. Before you realize what is happening, they can build up and catch you by surprise, leaving you tossing and turning, yearning for sleep. Life challenges such as relationship problems, overloads at work, the illness or death of a loved one, or simply burnout are also things that can contribute to sleeplessness. In addition to stress and anxiety, certain medical problems can also rob us of the sleep that we need. Hormonal disruptions within the delicate chemistry of our bodies can not only result in insomnia, but also present in restlessness and irritability. This is particularly true for women who are experiencing menopause. Identifying the most likely cause of your insomnia will help you to choose the most effective types of essential oils to ease your symptoms and promote restful sleep.
How essential oils can reduce insomnia
Essential oils are made of herbal extracts which are taken from plants. Certain plants contain unique elements that are beneficial to humans when used for treating medical conditions that arise. Compounds within the plants have been used through the ages to promote relaxation. This is achieved by stimulating your body’s production of serotonin and other natural calming agents. In addition, scent has a powerful effect upon your mind. It can trigger psychosomatic responses such as a feeling of well being that allows your body, and more importantly, your mind, to relax enough to fall asleep.
There are different formulations of essential oils that are used to achieve specific effects. Some are used in their pure form while some are combined with a variety of plant extracts to maximize relaxation or sleepiness. Here is a description of some of the most popular essential oils for relaxation and sleep.
Lavender
Lavender is an herb that helps in promoting relaxation and sleep. It has a clean and pleasing scent that stimulates the production of serotonin in the brain, bringing relaxation. Uses include a few drops in bath water, use in a diffuser, or in sachets placed under the pillow.
Neroli
Neroli, also known as orange blossom is often used in perfumes. The scent is aesthetically pleasing but it is also valued for its ability to induce a state of relaxation and relief from nervous tension that lasts long enough to fall into slumber.
Valerian
Valerian has an acquired scent that can be described as being unpleasant, but it works well in reducing stress and tension. Valerian is one of the most powerful and effective herbal remedies known for the relief of insomnia, nervousness and anxiety. When combined with other essential oils such as \lavender or neroli, the scent is improved.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood essential oil produces a clean and fresh scent. This is an ancient remedy used for treating insomnia, stress and anxiety issues. The combination of its fragrance and the properties which induce relaxation do not require the infusion with other essential oil fragrances to be effective in promoting sleep. It is commonly used to improve other fragrances but works well as a standalone remedy.
Clary Sage
Clary Sage essential oil with a nutty scent that contains a muscle relaxing compound called thujone. Clary Sage is a known anti-stress agent that promotes relaxation which makes falling asleep easier.
Roman Chamomile
Roman Chamomile essential oil is another essential oil which has been used since ancient times. For centuries, people have used Roman Chamomile in tea form as a beverage and as an essential oil for relaxation. The effectiveness of Roman Chamomile is increased when it is combined with lavender.
Vetiver
Vetiver Essential oil has a unique earthy scent that is most effective for calm the nerves of women experiencing hormonal imbalances. Vetiver is also useful for anyone male or female who suffers from insomnia that is caused by anxiety, nervousness or stress.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood essential oil has a pleasing and clean fragrance. This quick working scent has a powerful effect on anyone experiencing stress or anxiety. The properties of this scent help to induce a state of calmness and relaxation.
Patchouli
Patchouli essential oil can be an acquired taste for some as it puts forth a heavy fragrance. It is effective in promoting a peaceful feeling and is best when a few drops are used in a diffuser. Although not everyone enjoys the aroma, many do. Even if it isn’t your favorite scent, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a quick acting and natural way of relaxing.
Ylang-Ylang
Ylang-Ylang essential oil is powerful as an anti stress herb with powerful calming effects. It is widely used in herbal treatments to relieve insomnia. In addition to this, YlangYlang is also an aphrodisiac, so be advised you should be careful when using Ylang-Ylang.
Marjoram
Marjoram essential oil produces a spicy fragrance, which is pleasant. The ancient Greeks used marjoram in their cooking as well as a therapeutic remedy for people under stress. Its properties promote relaxation.
How to use essential oils in the treatment of insomnia
There are quite a few ways which essential oils are used to treat insomnia. The most popular methods is to put a couple drops on your pillow before going to bed. This provides a constant dose to help you get to sleep and have a restful and full night’s sleep. Essential oil is often placed into a diffuser so it permeates the air in a room or even through the entire house. It is safe to put a few drops directly in t bath water. It can also be mixed with Epsom salts, then sprinkled into the bath water. Finally, essential oils can be mixed with other carriers including baby oil and a variety of lotions. It can then be massaged directly into the skin.
Conclusion
The use of essential oils as a treatment for insomnia, stress, anxiety and a host of other issues is nothing new. People have been using them for centuries to bring relief for troublesome symptoms. There is currently a revival of this ancient therapeutic use of herbal extracts that is gaining popularity. People are once again discovering that using essential oils to treat insomnia is one of the healthiest and effective alternatives currently available.