Are you looking for tools to send your clients into a relaxing slumber during your treatments? BestMattress-Brand.org's sleep expert Ray Soberano has the answer: essential oils.
These powerful healing aromas can ease sleep disruptions such as snoring, sleep apnea and night-time stuffiness. Various essential oils hold different benefits for sleep, and Soberano shares 10 scents to try in your treatment room and at home.
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Related: Aromatherapy for Sleep Hygiene: Benefits and Applications
1. Lavender
Lavender is the most researched herb for sleep and is revered for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. As an essential oil, it’s known to relax the body’s muscles to promote restfulness, leading to more slow-wave sleep.
2. Vanilla
As one of the most recognizable fragrances, vanilla is a powerful antioxidant and relaxant. Vanilla contains anti-inflammatory properties proven to help individuals breathe easily at night, making it an especially good choice for those suffering from sleep apnea and snoring.
3. Cedarwood
Cedarwood is known for its woody aroma and has been characterized as warm and comforting sedative. Like lavender, cedarwood oil also eases pressure on the joints to provide a more peaceful sleep experience. Furthermore, this essential oil stimulates blood circulation and helps prevent numbness, tingling and muscle cramps while asleep.
4. Chamomile
Chamomile is a plant extract containing apigenin, a chemical compound that can induce sleepiness when it binds to the brain’s receptors. Apigenin also increases levels of serotonin, a chemical responsible for regulating the body’s internal clock. Serotonin helps produce the sleep hormone melatonin, which helps fight restlessness.
5. Bergamot
Bergamot oil is an extract produced from prickly trees called citrus bergamia, originating in the tropical climates of Southeast Asia. While some citrus oils may be too stimulating for sleep, bergamot is unique as it relaxes the body by lowering blood pressure. These calming qualities ease racing thoughts and allow sleepers to rest peacefully without feeling anxious.
6. Ylang-Ylang
Ylang-ylang oil is an extract from the fruit of Indonesian Canaga trees. It is a beautifully fragrant oil known to enhance the health of the nervous system by reducing tension exerted on nerves and stabilizing heart rate. This is not only beneficial in promoting rest, but it also reduces the risk of hypertension and other heart-related diseases.
Related: 5 Essential Oil Spa Treatments
7. Jasmine
Jasmine is another popular essential oil used to tackle sleep disruptions. Its powerful fragrance stimulates the limbic system by promoting feelings of tranquility and helping individuals fall asleep faster. What sets this essential oil apart from others is its molecular structure, which is similar to medications for insomnia. Research suggests jasmine is just as effective as prescription remedies for sleeplessness.
8. Peppermint
The anti-inflammatory qualities in peppermint are useful for reducing obstructions such as nasal congestion and inflammation. Peppermint oil can help those who suffer from allergies because the stimulating fragrance clears the nasal passage and allows for more airflow. Peppermint contains the organic compound menthol. When menthol is inhaled, it stimulates the hippocampus, an area of the brain responsible for mental clarity and may enhance memory for some individuals.
9. Geranium
Geranium oil’s light floral fragrance acts as an antidepressant to ease stress brought on by insomnia. Struggling to fall asleep each night can increase levels of cortisol, a hormone responsible for regulating stress. However, inhaling geranium can lower cortisol in the body and calm the nerves. It's a way to get a good right of rest without worrisome thoughts.
