You’ve probably heard lavender is great for sleep, which is 100% true.
Not only does it counteract feelings of stress, a recent study found it to reduce anxiety by 45%.
However, what if you dislike lavender or are pregnant?
Then you need an alternative - and here are some of the best.
1. Geranium
As reported in Journal of Caring Sciences, geranium can reduce anxiety - only after 2 days. Remember, symptoms of anxiety include an inability to fall asleep, waking up at 3am and feeling exhausted in the morning - so if this sounds familiar, geranium may help you. Although anxiety is normal, it doesn’t mean you need to suffer.
2. Sweet orange
Feeling overwhelmed? Sweet orange oil is the answer. Pinpointed in International Journal of Molecular Sciences, it tranquillises the brains prefrontal cortex. As a result, you’re less stressed and can organise, plan and execute more effectively. This is ideal for anyone feeling wired in the eve - it’s a signal your brain is overwhelmed and needs to calm down.
3. Chamomile
As noted by Molecular Medicine Reports, chamomile sedates the brain and counteracts stimulation from adrenalin. Typically, adrenalin makes you feel nervous, tense and mentally on edge - so to lessen it will definitely aid your efforts to fall asleep. Further, research demonstrates chamomile reduces pain - perfect for women with PMS.
4. Peppermint
This one is more-so for the afternoon: academic studies show peppermint oil improves mental alertness, attention and memory - exactly what you need at 3pm. Diffuse this instead of drinking coffee: you’ll be able to unwind that night much easier. Further, peppermints anti-spasmodic effects aiding digestion which can otherwise cause restlessness. This is particularly helpful for those eating late or drinking alcohol.
5. Lavender
Reducing anxiety by 45%, a recent study found lavender equally as effective as sleeping pills, which reduced anxiety by 46%. With researchers concluding it to be a safe alternative to sleeping pills, it’s no surprise lavender continues to be the quintessential oil for sleep.
