Sleep Science

Aromatherapy for Sleep: Best Essential Oils & How to Use Them

Discover the best essential oils for sleep including lavender, chamomile, and bergamot. Learn safe usage methods and create your own sleep-promoting blends.

Aromatherapy for Sleep: Best Essential Oils & How to Use Them

How Aromatherapy Works for Sleep

Aromatherapy works through the olfactory system, which has direct connections to the limbic system—the part of the brain that controls emotions and memory. Certain scents can trigger relaxation responses and reduce stress hormones.

20%

improvement in sleep quality with lavender

45%

reduction in anxiety symptoms

Best Essential Oils for Sleep

Essential Oil Benefits Best For
Lavender Calming, reduces anxiety General sleep improvement
Chamomile Mild sedative effect Stress-related insomnia
Bergamot Reduces heart rate & blood pressure Anxiety before bed
Cedarwood Grounding, sedative Racing thoughts at night

How to Use Essential Oils for Sleep

  • Diffuser: Add 3-5 drops to a diffuser 30 minutes before bed
  • Pillow spray: Mix with water in a spray bottle
  • Bath: Add 5-10 drops to warm bath water
  • Massage: Dilute with carrier oil for topical use

Safety Guidelines

⚠️

Important Safety Tips

Always dilute essential oils before skin application. Keep away from eyes, children, and pets. Some oils can interact with medications—consult your doctor if you're on any medications.

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Dr. Genevieve Fairbanks
Written by

Dr. Genevieve Fairbanks

Aromatherapy & Wellness Director with doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine

View all articles by Fairbanks