1.
Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia
Extracted from the buds of the lavender plant, lavender essential oil is one of the most popular oils for use in aromatherapy. Several studies support lavender’s sleep-promoting qualities when inhaled at bedtime. Using it can reduce stress, anxiety, and fight insomnia, too.
2.
Clary Sage
Salvia sclarea
This oil comes from the herb, native to Southern Europe. If you prefer a herby scent, clary sage can be a great choice to help promote sleep by reducing the stress hormone cortisol. In studies, clary sage has lowered blood pressure and helped reduce feelings of anxiety.
3.
Valerian
Valeriana Officinalis
Valerian essential oil is extracted from the plant’s roots. Native to Asia, Valerian was used for centuries to help promote sleep. With a strong, earthy scent, it’s not for everybody – but its effects on sleep are powerful. This oil is particularly soothing and relaxing, capable of warding off nervous tension and helping you achieve deep sleep quicker.
4.
Peppermint
Mentha × Piperita
If you suffer from blocked airways or sleep apnea, peppermint’s anti-inflammatory qualities can help reduce snoring. Extracted from the peppermint leaves, this essential oil can help fight insomnia and improve sleep quality.
5.
Bergamot
Citrus bergamia
Extracted from bergamot orange peel, this essential oil doesn’t carry the zest, vibrant qualities of citrus but instead offers a soothing scent that lowers blood pressure and reduces stress. Bergamot can help manage anxious feelings and acts as a mild sedative.
6.
Cedarwood
Cedrus
There are many types of cedar trees that distillers use to create cedarwood oil, so its properties can vary. Cedarwood is an earthy scent that when used for sleep before bed, can help relieve mild insomnia. It is known for its sedative effect due to its ability to release serotonin and melatonin in the brain.
7.
German or Roman Chamomile
Citrus bergamia
Extracted from bergamot orange peel, this essential oil doesn’t carry the zest, vibrant qualities of citrus but instead offers a soothing scent that lowers blood pressure and reduces stress. Bergamot can help manage anxious feelings and acts as a mild sedative.
8.
Sandalwood
Santalum album
Sandalwood is native to India and popular for its woody, earthy scent. In sleep, sandalwood works as a mild sedative, increasing the quality of the early stages in your sleep cycle.
9.
Jasmine
Jasminum
Surprisingly, this little flower has proven to be even more effective at promoting restful sleep than lavender. As with many slumber-inducing essential oils, it helps lower anxiety and reduces irritability.
10.
Geranium
Pelargonium graveolens
A wonderfully floral scent similar to rose, geranium can be effective at beating insomnia. Low mood can contribute to bad sleep, but geranium has properties to help alleviate depression and anxiety, and enhance mood.
