Best Essential Oils for Sleep

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 amazing for sedating our nerves, prepping us for a good night sleep. There are some oils quiet as kept, just as good if not more efffective than lavender for some. 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 relieving anxiety and increasing calm levels. A natural sedative to our central nervous system. It also signals to your body  it’s safe to relax by lowering your  heart rate and blood pressure. It pairs well with Lavender as they are both florals. If your insomnia is driven by anxiety, racing thoughts or emotional overstimulation Ylang Ylang is perfect for you. Two of its main components: linalool and germacrene are associated with relaxation and reduced stress. 

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 effective for night time routines. Containing compounds like apigenin that are linked to mild sedative effects, targeting the vagus nerve which activates rest and digest. Easing digestive discomfort and physical tension that can disturb restful sleep. Safe for children and those with a sensitive stomach. 

Best for: light sleepers, nighttime restlessness, for those with emotional sensitivity and stress related digestive tension. 

Calm tip: for a deeper calm vibe choose a Roman chamomile blend, to focus on inflammation and emotional soothing choose German chamomile. 

Bergamot an underrated citrus and the most relaxing one of the citrus bunch, as opposed to stimulating like the others. Reducing stress hormones before sleep by regulating cortisol levels. Bergamot prepares the body for rest as it reduces sympathetic nervous system activity. Great for mood balancing. 

Best for: disruptive sleep linked to worry, mood imbalance and emotional heaviness. 

Calm tip: blend bergamot well due to photosensitivity or find a FCF (furanocoumarin-free) oil.

Final thoughts: these oils are great for supporting sleep, individually or combined, you can use these oils to get a better night’s rest. 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 can set the mood for bedtime. 

As always, remember to educate yourself on your reactions to oils, always dilute and blend safely.