When it comes to getting a good night’s rest, most of us are willing ‘ to try just about everything. I know I am. I also love a good night’s rest. Most of us are familiar with Lavender as nature’s sleep aide. Rightfully so, Lavender is wonderful for winding down, prepping us for a good night’s sleep. There are some oils, quiet as kept, that some of us love just as much as lavender at bedtime. Today we will explore some of these hidden gems and how they can enhance your sleep.
We will cover three oils:
Ylang Ylang, Chamomile, Bergamot
Ylang Ylang is a personal favorite, you’ll find this oil in our very popular Melo Mango & Lavida. This oil is great for slowing down and inviting calm. Its sweet, heavy floral scent is my signal that it’s time to relax. It pairs well with Lavender as they are both florals. If your nights come with racing thoughts or a busy, overstimulated mind, Ylang Ylang is a lovely one to try. Two of its main components, linalool and germacrene, are often found in relaxing scents.
Best for: those who are mentally overstimulated, emotionally overwhelmed and those who feel “wired but tired”.
Calm tip: use with caution, Ylang Ylang is potent. Too much can feel heavy or headache inducing. Blending with lavender or peppermint will be a sweet treat.
Chamomile is subtle yet powerful. Many of us prefer the tea which can be great before bed, the oil is just as lovely for night time routines. Its soft, apple-like scent is one of the gentlest in my collection, perfect for a slow, cozy bedtime. If you’re using it around children or have a sensitive stomach, use a lower dilution and check with your healthcare provider first.
Best for: light sleepers, restless evenings, and those with emotional sensitivity.
Calm tip: for a deeper calm vibe choose a Roman chamomile blend, for a sweeter, more herbal note choose German chamomile.
Bergamot an underrated citrus and the most relaxing one of the citrus bunch, as opposed to stimulating like the others. It’s soft and uplifting at the same time, perfect for easing out of a busy day and getting ready for rest. Great for mood balancing.
Best for: evenings when worry or a heavy mood follows you to bed.
Calm tip: blend bergamot well due to photosensitivity or find a FCF (furanocoumarin-free) oil.
Final thoughts: these oils are great for a calming bedtime routine, individually or combined. I’d suggest diluting a blend in a spray bottle, spraying your pillow and linen for an instant boost. Diffusing on an auto timer before bed (20 mins) for a calming ambiance. Taking a salt bath with a few drops of your preferred oils (mixed into a carrier oil first) can set the mood for bedtime.
As always, remember to educate yourself on your reactions to oils, always dilute and blend safely.