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Essential oils are plant extracts that are believed to induce relaxation for better sleep. It’s been used in many alternative treatments since ancient times. But can it help to improve sleep quality? What are some of the best essential oils for sleep?
In this article, we will take a look at the benefits of essential oils and some of the best essential oils for different reasons.
Our Top Picks
Best for Aromatherapy Diffusers: Maple Holistics Dream Essential Oils for Diffusers
Best for Roll-on Application: UpNature Dream Sleep Essential Oil Roll On
Best for Pillow Sprays: thisworks Deep Sleep Pillow Spray
Best for Baths: Dr Teal’s Foaming Bath
Best for Kids: Plant Therapy KidSafe Sweet Slumber
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts obtained through mechanical pressing or distillation. Every essential oil has its composition of chemicals, which have varying effects on the body [1].
It can be used in many ways, ranging from cosmetics and beauty products to aromatherapy practices. It is believed that using essential oils could potentially be beneficial for the health and body, which may explain why there’s an increasing demand, especially in the US market [2], [3].
Benefits of Using Essential Oils
While many people claim that essential oils can be beneficial in treating some ailments, there still isn’t enough research evidence to back these claims up.
A study found that aromatherapy can potentially enhance sleep quality and reduce stress and anxiety in adults and older people [4].
Some clinical trials also looked at whether essential oils could be beneficial in improving sleep problems such as insomnia and mental health concerns like depression [5].
The 5 Best Essential Oils for Sleep
1. Best for Aromatherapy Diffusers: Maple Holistics Dream Essential Oil Blend for Diffuser
The Dream Essential Oil Blend by Maple Holistics is designed to help you unwind and achieve good sleep. Make it a part of your bedtime routine by using it within your bedroom space. All you need to do is add some drops to your aromatherapy diffuser or apply it to your pillows or sheets. Made with real and natural ingredients, it promises to play an effective role in supporting sleep.
User Ratings: 4.5/5 Stars
Key Ingredients: Lavender oil, Clary Sage oil, Chamomile oil and Ylang Ylang oil
Price: $9.99
| Pros | Cons |
| Pure essential oil blend | Scent may be too strong for those who are sensitive |
| Vegan and cruelty-free | Bottle may sometimes leak |
| Can be used for different purposes |
2. Best for Roll-on Application: UpNature Dream Sleep Essential Oil Roll-On
UpNature Dream Sleep Essential Oil Roll On is a natural essential oil blend for sleeping. The combination of lavender, orange, and chamomile oils helps to promote relaxation and prepare you for bedtime. To use it, all you need to do is to use the applicator and roll it onto your wrist, behind your ears, and neck and experience the soothing effect that it induces.
It’s also designed for convenience; you can use it anytime you find it hard to fall asleep or take it along with you on your next trip.
User Ratings: 4.4/5 Stars
Key Ingredients: MCT, Lavender oil, Ho wood oil, Copaiba, Orange Peel oil, Juniper oil, Coriander oil, Balm Mint, Bay Laurel, Chamomile oil
Price: $9.98
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to apply with a roll-on applicator | May require multiple re-applications |
| Convenient for travel | |
| Non-GMO and cruelty-free formula |
3. Best for Pillow Sprays: Thisworks Deep Sleep Pillow Spray
Thisworks Deep Sleep Pillow Spray was created as a solution to ease stress and anxiety. Infused with a calming blend of lavender essential oil, vetivert essential oil, and chamomile essential oil, each ingredient works in harmony to relax the mind and body and soothe any tension for a deeper sleep. Spray it directly on your linen at night and prevent restless sleep. It’s a perfect solution for those who have trouble sleeping and can’t stay asleep.
User Ratings: 4.3/5 Stars
Key Ingredients: Lavender oil, Vetivert oil, and Chamomile oil
Price: $33
| Pros | Cons |
| Great for those who have sleep anxiety | Not very affordable compared to other solutions |
| Ideal for those who don’t prefer using an oil blend | |
| Non-GMO and cruelty-free formula |
4. Best for Baths: Dr Teal’s Foaming Bath
Dr Teal’s Foaming Bath solution helps to transform your bathing experience and rejuvenate you with a blend of relaxing essential oils. It contains a key blend of safe ingredients which are melatonin, lavender, and chamomile essential oils which have been dermatologist-tested. These ingredients work together to promote relaxation, calm the mind, and prepare your body for a restful night’s sleep. It’s a perfect addition to your self-care ritual or to help you wind down for bedtime.
User Ratings: 4.8/5 Stars
Key Ingredients: Epsom salt, melatonin, lavender and chamomile essential oils
Price: $11.74
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable and easily available | The scent disappears rather fast |
| Forms bubbles | Bathwash does not dispense very well |
| Helps to relax both the muscles and mind |
5. Best for Kids: Plant Therapy KidSafe Sweet Slumber
The Sweet Slumber Essential Oil Blend by Plant Therapy was formulated for kids who are sensitive to lavender. Combining a blend of Cedarwood, Ho Wood, Sweet Orange, Roman Chamomile, and Vetiver essential oil, it is suitable for both adults and children from age 2 and above. To use it, all you need to do is to diffuse a few drops into 100 ml of water at bedtime.
User Ratings: 4.4/5 Stars
Key Ingredients: Cedarwood, Ho Wood, Sweet Orange, Roman Chamomile, and Vetiver essential oils
Price: $15.99
| Pros | Cons |
| Formulated for children | Some may find the scent to be too strong or weird |
| Free from harsh additives | |
| Use for diffusers or diluted on skin |
Safety and Precautions
Before making the decision to try out various essential oils for sleep, you should also be aware of potential side effects and take the necessary precautions.
Essential oils can be potent and cause allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin. It’s recommended that you carry out a patch test before using any new oils for the first time.
If you’re choosing to use it on your skin, ensure that you are diluting it with water or carrier oil to avoid any skin irritation or reaction.
Conclusion
Essential oils can be a natural and effective way to improve sleep quality, provided that it is used correctly. Some ways to use essential oils could be by diffusing it, using a roll-on applicator, spraying it on your linen or using it in the shower.
For more natural ways to improve your sleep quality, check out the ShutEye® app. ShutEye® is a sleep-tracking app that analyzes your sleep cycle, providing personalized sleep solutions to help you improve it each night. Try it now for free!
