Essential oils to help breathing at night
Some essential oils, while surrounded by a lot of bad science and mysticism, can be powerful tools for relaxation and improved sleep. While there’s some evidence to support that oils can improve some symptoms in some cases, it’s important to remember that oils should never be used as a primary care method. Always talk to your doctor about your health issues, people! That being said, many people struggle with sleep quality and breathing while they sleep. This can be due to allergies, sinus infections, and obstructive sleep apnea. Certain essential oils have been proven to help improve sleep quality, and reduce anxiety. Here’s our list:
Lavender Oil
There’s been several recent studies reviving the idea of lavender’s efficacy for sleep onset, and for treating anxiety. In animal models lavender was shown to reduce anxiety, and also have a local anesthetic effect. In human models, lavender was shown to reduce anxiety comparable to lorazepam. It’s possible that these findings suggest that if you have sleep onset or nocturnal awakenings associated with anxiety lavender may be an effective treatment.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is comprised primarily of menthol. Menthol is the ‘cold’ sensation you get when you use a topical product like “Icy Hot”. Menthol is also found, with the combination of eucalyptus and camphor, in Vick’s Vaporub. The menthol oil scent goes in through the nose, and interestingly enough, tricks your brain into thinking your nose is unclogged! There’s been several studies showing that menthol itself doesn’t alter any of the physical measures of breathing, but it does make breathing feel easier, and feel better. So if you don’t tell, I won’t.
Eucalyptus Oil
In addition to helping kill bacteria, cineol, a primary component of eucalyptus oil has been shown in this study to help patients with chronic bronchitis. It’s important to note that this study tested a combination of cineol with other terpenes called myrtol. Eucalyptus oil may also help break up mucus in your chest, as well!
These essential oils can be used to help you fall asleep faster, and breathe better at night. As always, remember if these symptoms get worse or you’re really having troubles breathing at night, that you need to go see your physician!
Either way, at least adding these oils to your nighttime routine will make your bedroom smell better!
