How to Use Lavender Oil for Sleep

Lavender essential oil has been used to promote sleep for centuries. Distilled from Lavandula angustifolia, it can be used as a massage oil or in aromatherapy to enjoy its versatile benefits. Lavender oil is also purported to have antimicrobial, antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. So,  how to use lavender oil for sleep? It can be used in various ways, massaging it on your forehead or as a mist on your pillow, etc. Keep reading to know the various other ways.

What is Lavender?

Lavender is a flowering plant that belongs to the mint family and is known for its sweet floral fragrance. It is native to Northern Africa and a few parts of the Mediterranean. Lavender is mainly grown to extract the essential oil known to have medicinal properties.

Does Lavender Really Help You Sleep?

Lavender has a reputation for being soothing that can help you unwind after a tiring day. But do lavender and sleep go hand-in-hand? The answer is yes! One study showed that lavender oil improved sleepiness after awakening in the middle of the night. It was also seen that lavender oil for sleep enhanced sleep quality in ischemic heart disease patients. Finally, another study showed that women who were given aromatherapy could enjoy a significant improvement in their sleep quality. So, if you are facing difficulty achieving a restful slumber, you can always turn to essential oils for sleep, such as lavender. 

Benefits of Using Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is said to have a plethora of benefits that can aid your overall well-being. So, let’s look at the most significant lavender oil benefits.

1. Lavender Improves the Quality of Your Sleep

Does lavender oil help you sleep? Yes. Sleep quality is when you achieve uninterrupted sleep and wake up fresh and energetic. One study conducted an in-depth analysis with young men and women as participants. Here, it was found that inhaling lavender fragrance before bedtime increased deep sleep and reduced REM. Also, it was found that all participants enjoyed a deep sleep and woke up refreshed. So, if you are going to bed on time but still wake up groggy, the lavender essential oil may come in handy. 

2. Lavender Enhances Sleep at Any Age

If you live in a joint family and notice that your grandparents or elderly are experiencing problems with sleep, lavender comes to the rescue. In one study, it was found that lavender enhanced sleep quality in the elderly and ensured that they fell asleep faster and curbed sleep disorders. 

That’s not all. Lavender has also been known to help infants and babies. One study showed that when infants bathed in lavender bath oil, their bedtime routine was calmer and more relaxed. And it has also been known to treat mild insomnia in college students. 

3. Lavender Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Are you someone whose mind goes on overdrive just before bed? The next day’s to-do list stirs anxiety in you? Well, all you need is lavender oil to overcome the same. One study mentioned above noted that lavender oil could decrease blood pressure, stabilise breathing, and reduce the heart rate. It may also play with the brain waves to calm you down. In fact, another study showed that lavender was as effective as taking anti-anxiety medicines. How to use lavender oil for anxiety and sleep? Well, you can inhale the fragrance or use it in a diffuser. 

Does lavender make you sleepy? Yes, it can be effective in helping you sleep. But if you are planning on consuming oral medication, always consult your doctor first.

How to Use Lavender Oil to Sleep Better?

 Why does lavender make you sleepy? Lavender works as an anxiolytic, which helps reduce anxiety. It interacts with neurotransmitters and helps quieten the brain. Take a look at how to use lavender essential oil for sleep. 

Find The Right Oil 

Today, you will find a variety of lavender oil in the market. So, choose the oil that fulfils your requirements. For instance, ‘Lavandula Latifolia’ is best for energy, while ‘Lavandula Angustifolia’ is good for sleep.

You Can Use It Topically 

When you apply essential oils to the skin, they can quickly enter the bloodstream and instantly work their magic. But remember, you must always mix the essential oil with a carrier oil before application, such as coconut or olive oil. So,  where to apply lavender oil for sleep essential oils for sleep? You can apply it to your temples or the soles of your feet.

Aromatherapy

You can use lavender oil in a diffuser or put a few drops on your pillow to inhale its floral scent as you sleep. This is how to use lavender essential oil for sleep.

How to Use Lavender Oil for Your Baby, Toddler, or Child’s Sleep?

 How to use lavender oil for sleep for babies? Take a look at the following tips below. 

• You must not use lavender oil for children below six months. 
• Use one drop of essential oil with one tablespoon of carrier oil for children between the ages of six months to two years.
• Use one drop of lavender with two teaspoons of carrier oil for children between two to six years of age.
• For children from six to 12 years, use one drop of essential oil with one and a half teaspoons of carrier oil.
• For children above 12 years, use one drop with one teaspoon of carrier oil. 

Other Ways to Use Lavender Oil to Help Sleep

Some other easy ways  how to use lavender oil for better sleep include;

Dried Lavender Sachets

You can use dried lavender to help sleep. You can place them on a bedside table next to you or under the pillow to inhale the sweet scent. 

Bath Salts

If you enjoy hot baths after a tiring day, you can use lavender bath salts to help you relax and achieve deep slumber. 

Lavender Eye Mask

You can use lavender eye masks. They are known to regulate the autonomic nervous system and reduce stress.

Conclusion

If you are struggling with sleep, you can use lavender essential oil to help you achieve deep sleep faster and improve the quality of your slumber. It is easy to use and also quite inexpensive.

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