These Are The Best Essential Oils For Sleep

If you often have trouble sleeping and you're not yet an avid user of essential oils, it might be time to change your tune. As aromatherapist Fran Johnson explained to GQ, "Essential oils work holistically on our mind and body for an enhanced sense of wellbeing." She continued, "Depending on the essential used, some will help to lift our moods and some have been seen as natural healers through their unique ability to harness some medicinal properties." 

The best part? According to sleep and neuroscience specialist Professor Badre, essential oils may even help you get some extra snooze time in the morning. "It can be very beneficial for subjects with transient or chronic mild — or even moderate — sleep disturbance, mainly [for] difficulty falling asleep but also for early awakenings," he told GQ. Sign us up! Here are the very best essential oils you should invest in if you're looking to improve your sleep.

Lavender essential oil is popular with those looking to aid sleep — and for good reason. As Dr. Angie Lillehei, founder and principal of Nocitilessence, told TODAY, "Lavender is the most studied with mostly positive results." However, registered dietitian and nutritionist, Heidi Moretti, believes that, in addition to lavender, cedarwood and roman chamomile are some of the best essential oils to use for sleep. "These oils all help dampen down the stress response, or cortisol, in the body," she told Bustle. Ultimately, they prepare the body for a restful sleep. And Johnson also agrees, telling GQ that chamomile has the power to "ease the tension of the day."

But if you're going give any of these essential oils a go, it's important to know that less is more. In some cases, you may even need to dilute them. Always follow the directions on the label and if you experience any irritation, discontinue use immediately.