Much has been written on the internet about essential oils. It seems like they are a miracle cure for just about every type of condition you can imagine. Some of the claims are simply not true, while others require stretching the imagination a bit. But sometimes the perfect combination for what ails you is found!
Essential Oils For Sleep: Do They Really Work? #essentialoils #sleep
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I will be totally honest: I don’t know an extreme amount about essential oils. I do use several of them daily, and others I keep on hand just in case a need arises. Thankfully I have friends who are very knowledgable about oils and what they can be used for. I call on them often!
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Because when it comes to essential oils, you have to know how to use them. The reason they may “not work” in some cases is due to user error. After all, they CAN help you reduce your stress and anxiety, loosen achy muscles and yes, even help you get to sleep. If you are looking for a natural way to get some sleep, then using aromatherapy is definitely a fantastic alternative to taking pharmaceuticals. Aromatherapy is effective and non addictive and will get your sleep patterns back on track in no time.
How to use essential oils for sleep
The best way to use essential oils for sleep is in the form of aromatherapy. So, you need a way to breathe in the scents to help you get your brain ready to sleep.
One of the most effective ways to do this is to set up a cool mist diffuser in your bedroom. About thirty minutes before bed, fill it with water and a few drops of the right scent and let it fill the room.
Take your time to get ready for bed while you breathe in the aroma, allowing certain scents to trigger your brain to release melatonin (which is your sleep hormone). Melatonin is responsible for setting your internal clock and lets your brain know it’s time to shut down.
Another way is to use diffuser bracelets by Kumi. These are beaded bracelets worn on the wrist with preloaded scents. You can breathe in the scent while you are doing other things before you get into bed, or are already in bed. Breathing the aroma from the oil while you are settling in is a great way to relax and fall asleep quickly.
Lastly, a hot bath that you add a few drops of essential oils to will do two things. First, the warm water will loosen the muscles and help you relax. Then the steam from the water combined with the essential oils will help your brain loosen up as well.
Best types of essential oils for sleep
The thing about essential oils is you can’t just pick any scent you like based on the smell. You have to choose the right oil for the job. For instance, if you were to use peppermint oil just because you like that menthol scent, it will give you an energy boost rather than settle in for sleep. (Although a few dabs of peppermint oil on the nose will help reduce your snoring at night if that is keeping your partner awake.)
The number one oil for sleep is lavender. It is a very soothing and slightly sweet scent that will invite melatonin release very quickly.
Other great scents for promoting peace and calmness in the body are chamomile, sandalwood, bergamot and jasmine.
Are you an essential oils user? What is your favorite scent and what do you use it for?
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