While the world gets quiet and slumbers, you find yourself wide awake at 3 a.m. Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep may be the result of not being able to relax or of having a cold, sleep apnea, anxiety, or restless leg syndrome. While there are numerous over-the-counter medications that may provide a good night’s sleep, eucalyptus oil is natural and is a suitable alternative to traditional sleep aids.
History Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree native to Australia, but it is found across America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and China. The oil of eucalyptus contains a compound known as eucalyptol, and research has shown that it has an anti-inflammatory effect and can relieve cold symptoms, nasal congestion, and headache by decreasing inflammation and mucus. It has also been shown to improve asthma symptoms. If breathing problems are responsible for your sleepless nights, eucalyptus oil is the solution.
Methods of Use Eucalyptus Oil for sleep
There are many ways you can incorporate eucalyptus into your bedtime routine. You can use it as a tea just before bedtime. Because eucalyptus tea is a reliable source of antioxidants, and antioxidants help support immune function and help with restlessness at bedtime, eucalyptus tea is an effective way to enhance your sleep. Environmentally, the oil can be used as aromatherapy by adding it to a diffuser, humidifier, or steam bowl. Or you can add the leaves to a bath or hang them in your shower to promote relaxation. Finally, you can add a few drops to a carrier oil, such as almond oil or fractionated coconut oil, and apply it to your chest to ease congestion and promote relaxation.
Safety
Eucalyptus oil is considered safe for adults, but it should not be used on children under the age of two. Eucalyptus oil is toxic when taken by mouth, and eucalyptus should be consumed orally as a tea made from eucalyptus leaves. Discuss this therapy with a medical professional prior to incorporating it into your sleep routine.
Mechanism of Action
While the eucalyptus leaf itself is not edible, the oil of eucalyptus is used in products like vapor rubs, lozenges, and cough syrups to help reduce cough and cold symptoms. By expanding the bronchi of the lungs and decreasing mucus, eucalyptus oil makes breathing easier. Thus, using it during a cold or flu illness or an asthma exacerbation can alleviate symptoms and make sleep better.
Additionally, allergies, cold, or restricted airflow often lead to snoring. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, inhaling eucalyptus oil through aromatherapy leaves your airways open and clear and makes it easier for you to breathe. This, in turn, relieves snoring episodes and provides uninterrupted sleep.
Furthermore, the cool, minty aroma of eucalyptus makes relaxing possible so you enjoy deeper sleep. The compounds of a-pinene, b-pinene, and limonene help soothe the mind and promote sleep. Its analgesic and calming effects are ideal for someone who experiences anxiety or restless leg syndrome. Research suggests the anti-anxiety properties of eucalyptol decrease the stress response and help you decompress and unwind.