Lavender always reminds me of my Grandmother, there would always be a hand-made lavender filled heart filling the spare bedroom with its calming scent. I always seemed to have the best sleep whilst staying at my Grandmother's house. Whilst this is a lovely memory I had no idea at this point how beneficial Lavender is for improving sleep quality. It’s definitely making a comeback and there's a good reason for it too. Lavandula Angustifolia, commonly known as english lavender has been used in medicine since medieval times, recent scientific studies have led to a revival of this super herb so I thought it was a good time to explore whether Lavender really does help you sleep.
So why is Lavender so good for sleep? Studies show that those who inhale lavender have enhanced mood, increased relief from anxiety and overall improved health and wellbeing. Essential oils are a great way to heal yourself naturally and Lavender is one of my top essential oils for its multitude of benefits.
1.Diffusing Lavender
A great way to use Lavender is to diffuse a pure essential oil
Lavender essential oil x 3 Drops
Fill your electric diffuser with purified water, add 3 drops of Lavender essential oil and let the essential oil fill the room with its relaxing aroma. I love to do this before bedtime or even whilst I sleep. In warmer weather pop next to a fan for a cooling and soothing sleep. Alternatively there are many diffusers on the market, our Lavender reed diffuser set is a beautiful and simple way to release the powers of Lavender into your space.
2.Topical Lavender
Another great way Lavender can be used is to use it topically, Lavender is my wonder oil, it can be used for both the mind and the body. With its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to de-stress, it is known to soothe angry and irritated skin flare-ups like eczema and psoriasis which can often be triggered by anxiety. It can also be used to treat sunburn, bug bites and even acne.
Lavender essential oil x 1 Drop
Apply neat Lavender essential oil covering the entire affected area, it may be surprising just how much area one drop can cover or add a couple of drops to your face cream or a carrier oil to experience its antioxidant effects.
3.Lavender bath
When I’m feeling particularly stressed I will always try to make time for a bath. For me, this is my ultimate stress reliever and sleep inducing aid. Draw the most perfect herbal calming bath to help soak your stresses away.
Lavender essential oil 3-6 drops
For added luxury:
Epsom salts 1-2 cups
Carrier oil (Jojoba is my favourite) 1 Tablespoon
If you’re not a bath person, perhaps a pillow mist would work well for you; or combine both by following your bath by misting gently over your pillow with this floral wood aroma, sending you into a deep slumber.
4.Lavender for sleep
Scientific studies have revealed Lavender to be a mild sedative, used to combat insomnia; it actually increases the time spent in deep slow-wave sleep. Some studies suggest that Lavender taken orally lowers anxiety as effectively as a low dose of anxiety medication, these effects are also apparent when diffused or inhaled. Or you could light one of our soy wax candles and let the aroma infuse your home to reap the benefits of this wondrous herb.
I hope that this has enlightened you about how wonderfully powerful lavender really is and I hope that it will give you that well deserved nights sleep you’re striving for and an overall sense of calm and wellbeing.
Talk soon,
Bella x