Can Essential Oils Lead to Better Sleep?

Living with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can present making challenges. No matter how you are currently treating your problem, you may find you want something more to assist in alleviating symptoms of snoring, interrupted sleep, and even irritability as a result of chronic fatigue. Surprisingly, essential oils can be a safe and natural way to help minimize these problems and help you get the rest you need. Read on to discover which ones are best to use when dealing with sleep apnea.

How Do Essential Oils Help Improve Sleep?

Essential oils are most commonly used for aromatherapy purposes; however, they can also be beneficial when it comes to achieving better rest. Extracted from various plants, these “volatile oils” as they are known are concentrated and can be inhaled using a diffuser or directly applied to the skin if diluted.

Some essential oils are designed to stimulate the brain and body to promote energy. However, others contain compounds that create a calmer, more relaxed state as well as allow you to breathe easier and experience less anxiety and stress.

Which Essential Oils Are Recommended for Better Rest?

It is important that you do your research and carefully review what products you breathe in, put on, or ingest into your body. Most are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While some essential oils are safe to consume, you’re advised to talk to your physician first.

If you want to reduce the symptoms associated with your sleep apnea, you will find that the following oils are best for achieving better sleep conditions:

• Lavender: When applied to your neck, feet, chest, or pillow, you will notice your body becomes more relaxed. It helps to clear your throat and sinuses, allowing for an open airway. You can also use a diffuser as a way to breathe it in while you sleep throughout the night.
• Peppermint: If your nasal passages are inflamed due to sinus congestion, peppermint oil is a great remedy. You can apply it directly to the skin, just below your nostrils.
• Eucalyptus: If you’re suffering from a cold or the flu, eucalyptus can help clear any mucus and relieve congestion while also opening your airways for better sleep. You can apply it under your nostrils, in a diffuser, or by adding a few drops to your hot shower.
• Thyme: Thyme is great for helping to clear the airways and minimize the potential for a blockage throughout the night. You can either dilute it and apply it to your neck and chest or use a diffuser to inhale it while you sleep.
• Marjoram: If you suffer from chronic snoring or sleep apnea, marjoram oil helps to soothe, relax your muscles, and calm any anxiety or nerves. As a result, you can prepare for a more restful sleep that is void of interruption.

Essential oils can be a great way to naturally treat your sleep apnea but make sure you talk to your sleep dentist to ensure you’re using them correctly for the most effective use.

About the Author
Dr. Shelley Shults is a board-certified nurse practitioner, general dentist, and dental sleep medicine practitioner. She graduated from Wichita State University with a bachelor’s degree in Nursing before going on to graduate from The Ohio State University with a Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2001. Dr. Shults and her team are proud to offer patients a solution to their sleep problems and look forward to helping you achieve the rest you need. If you or a loved one is suffering from sleep apnea, contact us at (614) 396-9310.