In America, 50-70 million adults have some kind of sleep disorder with insomnia being the most common. 30% of adults reported having short-term problems with getting to sleep and staying asleep. There are many essential oils that can not only help you to drop off easily but also help to reduce bad dreams.

All natural, and good for you there is nothing synthetic about essential oils and you don’t need to see a doctor to obtain them. Just a few drops can help you get some quality sleep and wake up well rested.

Here are some great oils to help you get those essential 8 hours, and wake up feeling refreshed.

Lavender Oil

Lavender has been used since medieval times to treat sleep problems and insomnia. It has a marked influence on the duration and quality of sleep, without causing any unwanted side effects. A 2005 study on ten people with insomnia, who had a Pittsburgh Quality Sleep Index (PQSI) score of 5, those that were treated using Lavender oil showed a marked improvement. So using a Lavender Eye Pillow when you are falling asleep could help you to get a relaxed and restful night’s sleep.

Chamomile Oil

Chamomile oil lowers blood pressure and reduces your heart rate, leaving you feeling calm as it is a natural sedative. Research has shown that the oil helps you move into a deep sleep cycle and is effective at reducing nightmares[HS1] . The sedative effects are actually due to a flavonoid called apigenin which binds to the benzodiazepine receptors in your brain, reducing anxiety and giving a hypnotic state. There are no after effects, and unlike many prescription and over the counter sedatives you will wake up feeling fresh and rested. Simply put a few drops of chamomile oil on your pillow before bedtime to feel the benefits.

Valerian Oil

Valerian is often drunk as a herbal tea - it is somewhat an acquired taste, however. Fortunately, it is just as effective to use the natural essential oil as a sleep aid. Around 2 million adults in America use Valerian every week in order to help them to sleep better. Clinical trials have shown that 80% of patients sleep better having used Valerian. Every night, put a few drops on your pillow, or alternatively, put some in a bowl of hot water underneath your bed, so you can breathe in the vapours.

Sweet Dreams xx

Written for Holistic Silk by Cassie Steele