Sometimes counting sheep just doesn’t do the trick. The good news is that there are healthy options for falling asleep. Instead of medicating with synthetic drugs, essential oils are an excellent natural remedy for sleep.
There is limited research on the best essential oils for sleep. However, studies show that certain oils are especially effective at relaxing the body and mind. One study (Reference 1) of patients with heart conditions found that breathing in lavender oil before sleep improved overall sleep quality and reduced anxiety amongst participants.
Other research (Reference 2) found that inhaling marjoram essential oils made it easier for people with asthma to breathe. This could also be an effective aromatherapy for sleep by assisting troubled sleepers or people with sleep apnea with subconscious breathing overnight.
Lemon essential oil is also on the list of essential oils to help sleep. This essential oil contains D-Limonene, which stimulates adenosine A(2A) receptors (Reference 3). When these receptors are not active, individuals have an increased risk of insomnia and anxiety. Breathing in lemon oil vapors before bed is a safe way to calm down and sleep better.