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Essential sleeping oils may seem like the least manly thing you can think of but if you’re in need of some extra sleep then it may be time to stop and smell the oils.
What are sleeping oils?
Essential oils are naturally occurring, aromatic compounds found in all parts of plants: Seeds, bark, roots, stems, and flowers. Generally, they are known for helping with various ailments from lighter health issues like colds, stress and muscle aches to more serious issues like heart disease and cancer. But let’s examine how they can assist with your sleep.
Not only do the essential oils with a sedative effects promote sleep, they can also diminish anxiety, lower blood pressure, and relieve stress.
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Lavender
This should come as no surprise here, even if you’re aren’t well-versed in essential oils you’ve likely heard of the relaxing benefits of lavender. This is the key essential oil to use when it comes to facilitating sleep as it slows the nervous system down for optimal rest. Scientific evidence also suggests that lavender may improve the quality of sleep, facilitate relaxation, and lift the mood in people suffering from sleep disorders.
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Vetiver
This is the ideal sleeping oil for the nature lovers. Vetiver is distilled from the roots of the plant giving it a rich, earthy aroma. For more sensitive smellers, it does emit a scent that may take bit getting used to so it’s recommended that you mix it with a floral or citrus oil at first.
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Cedarwood
Keeping with the woodsy theme, cedarwood is a bit of a super oil. It cures acne, promotes hair growth, and reduces cough, among a host of other health benefits. But when it comes to sleep specifically the oil actively supports healthy function of the pineal gland, which releases melatonin — the body’s natural sleepy hormones.
$9.75 for a 2-pack at Amazon.com
Ylang Ylang
While the name is fun to say, the health benefits make this an even more enticing oil to use. Originating the tree of the same name found in the SouthEast Asian Rainforest the name translates to “Flower of flowers” in English and the smell lives up to its billing. The scent is flowery and fruity. The flower from which the oil is derived has historically been used to cover the beds of newlywed couples on their wedding night. Why? It apparently balances male and female energies, making it the perfect oil for you and your spouse to use in the bedroom. Ylang ylang can act as a sedative, it reduces hypertension, and it helps to alleviate stress and anxiety.
$18.04 at Amazon.com
Roman Chamomile
There’s a reason it’s been the main ingredient in one of the most famous teas but the cup runneth over with the positive effects of Roman Chamomile oil. Chamomile is one of the most effective natural sedatives around. Chamomile effectiveness in relieving stress and anxiety have been well-documented over the years. It’s light, floral scent is wonderful for creating a peaceful atmosphere before catching some Zs.
$13.95 at Amazon.com
Frankincense
In a biblical sense, Frankincense is, of course, mostly known for being one of the three gifts baby Jesus receives in the bible from the three wise men. And while you may not exactly be as noble as, you know, the son of God and all, frankincense is the gift that keeps on giving, especially when you’re looking to get a good night’s rest. Frankincense helps to calm your mind while simultaneously supporting your body’s natural healing responses and is popular for providing relief for skin rashes and small cuts.
$14.95 at Amazon.com
How do you use sleeping oils?
There are various ways to apply the oils and how you choose to do so is mainly down to preference. Electronic diffusers are a popular choice because they also double as an air freshener. These devices disperse mist that fills the atmosphere in minutes. In addition, the oils can be mixed in a cream, or even inhaled directly by rubbing a few drops on your hands. What’s great about essential oils for sleep is that they eliminate all of the side or after effects that are common with synthetic sleep aids. One note of caution however, essential oils are heavily concentrated plant extracts, therefore they are extremely potent. A few drops are often all that is needed.
Related Reading
Best Sleep Masks For Men
Tips For Your Best Night’s Rest
Reasons You Still Can’t Sleep
Everything You Need To Know About Sleep Apnea
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