Falling asleep is generally not something I have a problem with…
Between chasing three Prairie Kids, running a booming online business, and keeping up with this crazy homestead life, I’m usually half-asleep by the time my head hits the pillow.
Now getting enough sleep? That seems to be my struggle right now, but I have yet to find an essential oil that can add additional hours onto a 24-hour period… So I suppose I’ll just keep working to pare down my schedule. 😉
But just because sleep is not an issue for me, doesn’t mean that many other folks don’t struggle with it.
In fact, it’s an issue that I hear come up very, very frequently on my essential oil team’s Facebook support group. It seems that between stress and hormones, there are truckloads of people who are continually eluded by a good night’s sleep.
The good news? I have an oil for that! Actually, not just one oil. There are, in fact, numerous essential oils for sleep.
The trick is finding exactly which essential oil your body likes best. Since every person is different, an oil that might send one person straight to dreamland, might not do a thing for someone else.
Sometimes finding the best oil for you just takes a little bit of trial and error. However, once you find that magic combo, life will never be the same.
8 Essential Oils for Sleep
1. Lavender
I’m betting you probably aren’t surprised to see lavender at the top of the list, huh? Most people are aware that lavender is somehow related to sleep, but what most people don’t know is that this has been studied extensively and its effectiveness is more than just an Old Wives Tale.
One study done in the United Kingdom showed promising results in using the aroma of Lavender oil for better sleep (1).
And another study observed that inhalation of lavender and several other essential oils improved sleep qualify of 56 ICU patients (2).
So as innocent as lavender may seem, it packs an impressive (and very scientific) punch in the sleep department.
2. Vetiver
Vetiver essential oil is distilled from the roots of the plant. It’s rich and earthy smelling, and it’s my go-to oil when I need to help my brain “shut-off” for the night. It took me a while to get used to the smell, so if you are a vetiver newbie, you might try mixing it with a “lighter” oil, such as lavender or roman chamomile.
3. Roman Chamomile
Roman Chamomile essential oil is known for is calming, soothing, and relaxing properties. It has a light, floral scent and is wonderful for creating a peaceful atmosphere in your bedroom.
4. Ylang Ylang
I’m glad I get to type this one today instead of trying to say it out loud. I honestly look like a dog with peanut butter stuck on the roof of its mouth whenever I try to pronounce it, but regardless, ylang ylang is a wonderful choice if you are looking to improve the quality of your sleep. It’s very floral and smells a bit fruity (at least to me).
5. Bergamot
I’ve had a strange attraction to bergamot ever since I opened my first bottle. Bergamot is a citrus fruit and the oil is cold-pressed from the rind or peel. Most citrus oils (like grapefruit or wild orange) tend to have a bit of a stimulating effect, but bergamot is different. It’s bright, yet calming at the same time. It’s one of the first ones I reach for when I need a bit of “emotional balancing,” and I add it to ALL of my sleep blends.
**Note** Bergamot is extremely photosensitive, which means it can make your skin very sensitive to the sun. Therefore, avoid applying bergamot before going outside, or only apply to covered skin.
6. Sandalwood
I love the rich, woodsy oils, and sandalwood is no exception. It is a pricier oil, but a little bit goes a long way, so it’s one I keep around at all times.
Click Here to Get Jill’s Free Essential Oil eBook >>
7. Marjoram
I know, I know… The first time I heard of marjoram essential oil, all I could think of was using it in cooking. But its benefits go far beyond that! Not only is marjoram essential oil wonderful for muscles and joints, but it also excels in creating peaceful sleep.
8. Cedarwood
I adore the earthy, woody smell of cedarwood essential oil. I frequently reach for it if I need to calm my brain down after a busy day. I like to use it topically, or put it in my diffuser. It blends well with lighter, floral oils, or is great on its own, too.
How to Use These Essential Oils for Sleep
When I’m using my essential oil stash to create a more peaceful sleeping atmosphere, there are two main methods that I use:
1. Topical Use
Applying oil topically can be a wonderful way to reap their benefits. I generally rub oils on the back of my neck, or on the bottoms of my feet before bed. I usually use a vegetable oil of some sort (like sweet almond oil– affiliate link) to dilute them, and then rub them into my skin.
2. Aromatic Use
My other secret essential oil weapon is my collection of essential oil diffusers. As you know, I have *cough* several and I use them ALL. THE. TIME. If you are having a hard time deciding on a diffuser, my essential oil diffuser review post will point you in the right direction.
It’s easy to add just a few drops of any of these oils to a bit of water in your essential oil diffuser, set by your bedside, and you’ll be in dreamland in no time.
Where to Buy Essential Oils for Wholesale Prices
There are new essential oil companies popping up everyday, but I’ve used doTERRA essential oils for four years now, and I’ll never go anywhere else. The oils are third-party tested for purity, ethically sourced around the globe, and I love working with a company that is humanitarian-minded as well.
Sources
1. http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2005.11.631
2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3588400/
Hi. Love your site. I have 5 kids including a toddler and 4 yr old who insist on sleeping in our bed so you think I would have no problems sleeping. However my mind races and I am having hormonal issues as well. What oils do you think will help and are oils available in Australia?
Hey there! Yes, it is definitely available in Austrailia. 🙂 In fact, I already have several team members down there. Clary sage is an excellent oil for hormonal support–and any of these others might help in your situation as well!
I’m just now coming across your post and have tried lavender for my daughter but it hasn’t helped her sleep. Are there any other oils that can help?
Julia– yes, the oils listed in this post (besides lavender) would be a good place to start.
I fall asleep quite easily; however after three to four hours, I am awake and cannot fall asleep again. This is a common side effect of drinking alcohol, but I wake up if I have had a glass of wine, milk or water. Any oils especially effective to keep one sleeping? I currently use a diffuser and have tried several oils.
could you tell me which cedarwood essential oil you use?
If you want me to mail you some samples, just holler!
Oh man id love some
Samples!!
I would love samples
I would love to receive as many samples as you can send. I suffer from insomnia as a result of fibromyalgia . I seem to alwaybe chasing and praying for a good night’s sleep.
Try inositol powder. Its just a b vitamin. It’s the only thing that’s helped my insomnia because of major health issues.
Oh please send me some samples for sleep thank u so much.
Would love samples
I would love samples also!!!
Pls send me some samples for sleep
Which oils do you have
I would love samples for sleep
To
T. Turner
946 Linda Vista Drive
Banning Ca 92220
Thank you
I would give vetiver a try– if you are interested in samples, please shoot me an email: jill@theprairiehomestead(dot)com
I would like some samples for sleep
I would love sample of oils to aid in relaxation and sleep.
RN hall
3568 w Delaware rd
Logansport in 46947
Phil.hall01@comcast.net
Hi there-
I’m happy to send you some samples– I am now charging $10 for shipping/packaging/handling of the samples. If you are still interested, please email me at: jill(at)theprairiehomestead(dot)com
I would pls love some samples for sleep and calming!
I would love samples for sleep. For the past 5 months I have been averaging 2 hours a night.
I would love some samples for sleep. I don’t have much problem going to sleep, I just wake up every 1.5 – 2 hrs. Every night like clockwork no matter how early or how late I go to bed
Hi there-
I’m happy to send you some samples– I am now charging $10 for shipping/packaging/handling of the samples. If you are still interested, please email me at: jill(at)theprairiehomestead(dot)com
My son had the same problem and was diagnosed with a sleep disorder.It is callef confusion arousal disorder. The sleep doctor gave him benedryl and he stopped waking up. I hope it helps.
To Rebecca Soinski says
January 7, 2017 at 7:27 pm
My son had the same problem and was diagnosed with a sleep disorder.It is called confusion arousal disorder. The sleep doctor gave him benedryl and he stopped waking up. I hope it helps.
I would like to have some samples for sleep , migraine and muscle pain.
Thanks
I’d like to receive some samples for relaxing and sleeping aid, and Adult ADD, I’ve read essential oils can help,I have lavender it gives me a headache,I have frankensence&Rose,these have not helped my son relax.
Julie Moore
127 Grey Moss Ct,Ingram,Tx,78025
Hi there-
I’m happy to send you some samples– I am now charging $10 for shipping/packaging/handling of the samples. If you are still interested, please email me at: jill(at)theprairiehomestead(dot)com
Hi, I too would love to have some samples.
Thank you.
Do you still have samples of this?
Hi, I would love to have some samples for sleep, thank you and God bless you.
I would love samples. please
I need some samples to use to help me sleep. Please
I’d love some samples
Please send samples.
I’m very interested but confused about EO.
Thank you
Emily Bond
3417 Eastmonte Dr
Valrico Fl 33596
I would love samples I cant sleep with out 6 different sleep pills and would love to get rid of some or all pills
Hello, I would love to have some samples! I have thrown out all prescription sleep meds.I love essential oils, and would very much appreciate it. Thanks so much for the support.
Hello
This seems amazing!
Please send me some samples for sleep, I am at a desperate stage.
Also info of where I can buy some of this essential oil mixture for sleep from.
Thank you
Hollaring!!!!
I’d love some samples! Whatever you can spare!
I suffer terrible anxiety, depression, insomnia.
Wonderful information here! My 7-year-old has had such a hard time falling asleep lately and I’ve wondered what natural options may be available for her. Do you recommend any one in particular over the rest? I’m hesitant to just run out and grab a bunch because they’re so darned expensive!
Lavender is always a good first choice!
I use lavender all the time it doesn’t help with sleep
Try lavendar, cedarwood and stressaway fron yl
Stresses is my Favorite!
I would love some samples for hormone balance and better sleep
I have had issues sleeping since I was 20. I have been using mostly Lavender at night for the last 2 months. My boyfriend also says that it has helped with my teeth grinding. But the last few nights (while I waited for my lavender to come in) I was using serenity, which does not help me. What other combos can I try that may help. I use a diffuser and I am starting to use a lil lavender on my feet as well. Thanks!
I bring lavender with me when I need to sleep in a strange place and I know I will need help getting to sleep. I just sprinkle the oil on my pillow case. (I bring my own pillow.) I have used orange or tangerine too. For me, whatever lets me relax, because I enjoy the smell I can drift off. One of my favorite smells to fall asleep to is damp dirt under my window!
i cannot sleep for more than 5 hours at a time. is there a recipe for these oils? do you put so many drops on a cotton ball next to your bed? do you blend a few of them together or just one at a time? thanks!
I usually apply oils topically or diffuse them to help promote a better night’s sleep. Sometimes I use just one, and other times I’ll blend/layer several–it just depends on the person. 🙂
What amounts of this 8 oil combination do you add to your diffuser? We have trouble staying asleep after 2am-3am and would like to try the diffuser to see if it helps.
Use melatonin to “stay asleep!
Works great for me for 16 years!
I heard that’s bad for the liver. My primary care doctor said to not use it. Be careful using that
Can you tell me what’s bad for the liver? Is it the Melatonin or the essential oils.
I will def try that, thanks
I sleep with a C-PAP machine. And I can’t turn my brain offbto fall asleep. What do you recommend
My husband uses a drop of Breathe on his bipap filter. It helps him.
I use lemon, 5 drops, 3 drops of Lavender and 3 drops of frankincense in a diffuser and it has improved my sleep 100%
But you must use a good quality, like “youngliving” which you can get in Australia where I live, but are quite costly
Essential Oils of Australia are also very good and cheaper.
Both are ABSOLUTES which means pure, nothing added Oils.
This was a really good blend i had a hard time waking up!
What are the best oils to mix together for a good night sleep
It’s really a personal preference– there are many combos. I personally love cedar wood mixed with bergamot.
Hey Crystal– shoot me an email jill(at)theprairiehomestead(dot)com and I’ll see what I can do
Could I get some samples for better sleep? I’ve tried lavender and eucalyptus to no avail.
Hi there-
I’m happy to send you some samples– I am now charging $10 for shipping/packaging/handling of the samples. If you are still interested, please email me at: jill(at)theprairiehomestead(dot)com
Please send me samples
Hi, I just bought a diffuser and I have no idea what to purchase for oils. Could you send me some samples so I can try some out. I am looking for a variety for sleep, stress, calming, etc. Any you can spare is greatly appreciated. thanks so much.
Hi there-
I’m happy to send you some samples– I am now charging $10 for shipping/packaging/handling of the samples. If you are still interested, please email me at: jill(at)theprairiehomestead(dot)com
Just got a diffuser. I am not sure what oils to use for sleep, stress, calm? I am on a fixed income and would love to have some samples. I just can not buy a bunch to experient with.
Hi there-
I’m happy to send you some samples– I am now charging $10 for shipping/packaging/handling of the samples. If you are still interested, please email me at: jill(at)theprairiehomestead(dot)com
Would love to try Melissa. Lavender hasn’t worked at actual sleep. If there are samples I’d love to try. Just getting into brands of essential oils. Thanks Jill.
Hi there-
I’m happy to send you some samples– I am now charging $10 for shipping/packaging/handling of the samples. If you are still interested, please email me at: jill(at)theprairiehomestead(dot)com
I’m a new user to essential oils would you have any samples or suggestions for some to use ?
I would love to try some samples that would possibly help with sleep. I’ve been using 100% pure lavender & it helps some, but I still wake several times through the night. My diffuser is lasting about 5 hrs. I’ve been using 2 drops of lavender, any suggestion?
Hi there-
I’m happy to send you some samples– I am now charging $10 for shipping/packaging/handling of the samples. If you are still interested, please email me at: jill(at)theprairiehomestead(dot)com
Hi there-
I’m happy to send you some samples– I am now charging $10 for shipping/packaging/handling of the samples. If you are still interested, please email me at: jill(at)theprairiehomestead(dot)com
Jill
I have lots of DoTerra oils (in AUstralia) – what do you recommend for staying asleep. I have been diffusing Lavender Peace and Cedarwood but dont find they are really helping. I can go to sleep but only for 4 hours or so then I struggle.
Hi Jill, I have all the ingredients and am going to make this recipe right now!
Thanks a lot
Sue
Enjoy Sue!
What recipe do you have? And does it work? Thank you
I am new to all of this. Can you please tell me what oils you would mix in a diffuser for sleep or would you just use one of the above? Thank you!
You can mix together 1-3 of the above oils, or just use them alone. It’s totally up to you
Hi jill, just a little help…ylang ylang the “y”‘a are silent…lang lang…anyway that’s what I was told…great blog
I would love some saple to help me sleep, I average maybe 2-3 hours a night. I have tried melatonin but does not help. even over the counder things do not help.
Jill, great list of essential oils blends for sleeping. One question… you use coconut oil as a carrier oil – which I love, but how do you get it from solidifying?
I use fractionated coconut oil– it stays liquid 🙂
No, doTERRA does not purchase oils from other EO companies. We source ours straight from farmers. The names of doTERRA vs. YL blends are different, btw. 🙂
Hello Jill,
For the Liquid Sleep Blend, may I use Sweet Almond oil instead of the fractionated coconut oil?
Thank you for all your wonderful information…eye opening and educational!
Yup– that’ll work!
Just found your sight and am looking to try essential oils for sleep. How much of the fractionated oil would you use with the essential oils? And my problem is that I am a newly postmenopausal woman with sleeping issues. Some times thoughts keep me awake or sometimes I wake up too early and/or I wake up feeling like I have been running a marathon all night? Any suggested oils? Thanks.
Very well-researched article. I truly agreed & believe that essential oils can really work for snoring solution. My husband was suffering from this same issue after so long. We tried so many things to reduce this issue and at last, we tried some of these the essential oils & it really worked like a magician. Thanks for sharing this article with all of us, Best wishes and Regards.
This is pretty good information. I knew lavender was going to be on the list ha. It’s pretty popular, I guess it’s cause it works though right?
I love ylang ylang too so I might try that. Thank you very much, this was nice.
I am looking for a combo to help with sleep and sinus congestion for both myself and our 5 year old.
I tried Lavender and it does gave me a better sleep especially during a stressful day
Hi Jill
I’m chasing some good mix’s for making my own sleep remedy to put in my kids oil diffusers. I have kids with Autism & ADHD and they wake frquently. Not good at going to sleep either. I have used melatonin which is not working anymore, thought I would try doing a cleanse with White Sage in their rooms and burning essential oils to help them sleep. I have Cedarwood, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Bergamot. Just wandering what I dilute them with to make the mix to add to diffuser. Thanks So much
What is the % concentration of the oil blend above? It seems to be a lot for 10ml.
Thanks
Hello Jill,
My husband was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer. One of the treatments was a hormone shot that he will have to take every 6 months. It have him having hot flashes everyday all day and he get no sleep at night. What is the best essential oils I can use to help him get some sleep at night and to be able to relax? And, can I use it with a diffuser?
These foot pads with essential oils in them I use nightly and have never slept better! While you sleep you absorb the oils through the bottom of your feet and the benefits are endless.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07G6NP9PC/ref=mp_s_a_1_15_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1536678419&sr=8-15&keywords=aromatherapy+foot+pads&dpPl=1&dpID=51jMn1Khp8L&ref=plSrch
I usually have problem with sleeping too. Sometimes, I just don’t know why. Maybe too much worry about what my blog earns tomorrow and how I can increase my earnings. I never thought essential oils can be these powerful in calming you down.
Lavender oil is really helpful for sleep. I have started to use lavender spray too in my room. Its fragrance is just awesome and will be helpful to fall asleep fast.
I have used lavender in our diffuser to help the kids sleep for the past few years, but I have never tried a blend. I will try the blend you recommend and see how it goes!
hey. That’s really nice info. Thank you for sharing. I will look forward for more information from you.
Can you use the liquid sleep in your diffuser or just in a roller bottle?
I love essential oils! I use them not only for restful sleep and wellness. I also use it to clean my house without chemicals and achieve a fresh and clean scent at home. Sich eco-friendly cleaning products as baking soda, essential oils, and vinegar will help everyone to keep the health of every member of a family in safe, protect your children and pet from harmful chemicals and allergens.
One of the most grounding essential oils for sleep, organic cedarwood essential oil has a comforting, woodsy scent that is perfect in a diffuser before bedtime to help you drift off. Cedarwood is proven effective as a sedative and has been shown to decrease heart rate and blood pressure, not only maintaining its usefulness as a sleep aid but also in alleviating hypertension and anxiety.