How Does Lavender Help Us Sleep?

How Does Lavender Help Us Sleep?

Lavender is a popular herb and essential oil known for its calming and soothing properties. For centuries, it has been used as a natural remedy to promote relaxation and help us sleep better because of its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects.

What is lavender oil?

Lavender oil is derived from the flowers of the lavender plant through a process of steam distillation. The oil contains various chemical components, including linalool and linalyl acetate, which are responsible for its distinct scent and therapeutic properties.

How does lavender oil promote better sleep?

Step 1: Serotonin Release

Studies show that lavender oil can increase the production and release of serotonin in your brain, a neurotransmitter that helps promote relaxation and sleep quality.

Step 2: Melatonin Release 

Serotonin is a precursor to melatonin, a hormone in our body that plays a key role in our body’s sleep-wake cycle. By promoting relaxation and reducing alertness, melatonin helps prepare our body for restorative sleep. 

Step 3: GABA Regulation 

The presence of melatonin in our bloodstream triggers the release of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter that signals the brain that it's time to put the mind and body to rest.

Step 4: Delta brainwaves take over

As we drift off to sleep, delta brainwaves become predominant. We are disconnected with our external environment and our body is in a deep state of relaxation. 

There are many ways to use lavender essential oil in your night routine such as diffusing it into a diffuser, topically applying it, or lighting a candle that has a high concentration of lavender essential oil.