The use of lavender to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and promote healthy sleep is far from a new discovery. Since ancient times, people used lavender in baths and herbal medicines to help calm the mind and body. Can lavender really make a difference for your sleep, though? And what does a homemade lavender spray actually do for your nightly rest?
The Science Behind Lavender’s Benefits
Research indicates that lavender may help with sleep because it has a calming effect on the mind and body. These calming effects are not simply folklore; rather, lavender’s active compounds, including linalool and linalyl acetate, help the body feel more at ease. Through various studies, researchers have observed:
- Lavender may help you unwind before bed, fall asleep more quickly, and sleep more soundly. A 2019 study revealed that lavender may improve melatonin levels in the body, which may improve overall sleep quality.
- A 2019 meta-analysis found that lavender may reduce stress and help calm the nervous system.
- The scent of lavender can help lower blood pressure and heart rate. One trial from 2020 found that inhaling the aroma of lavender essential oil for 30 minutes helped reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
What Is A Pillow Spray?
There are various recipes, but a pillow spray is basically a simple mixture that you spray on or under your pillow, or on your bed sheets, before you go to sleep. Ideally, it contains essential oils that help promote relaxation and better sleep. Lavender has a subtle, soothing scent that does not overwhelm you as you prepare for bedtime. You can spray generously, but keep in mind that too much may be intense.
Lavender And Sleep
Lavender can help a lot of people, but it may not work for everyone. If you have difficulty falling asleep or struggle to sleep through the night and lavender does not seem to make a difference, make sure that you have good sleeping habits. The homemade lavender pillow spray in this article will work better if you use it in conjunction with the following habits:
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals too close to bedtime.
- Take a break from screens at least an hour before bedtime.
- Go to bed and wake up at about the same time every day, even on the weekends.
- Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, although you can use a sound machine if that helps you relax.
- Maintain a relaxing bedtime routine that signals the body to go to sleep.
Ultimately, lavender is a simple, safe, and natural way to aid stress reduction and promote better sleep. You can experiment with the lavender pillow spray, in addition to enjoying a lavender bath or lavender tea before bed whenever you feel stressed. Should the problem prove to be more serious, you may have to establish other stress management techniques, or figure out the root of your sleep troubles. We only hope this pillow spray helps you sleep soundly through the night.
Homemade Lavender Pillow Spray
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces witch hazel
- 10-20 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Pour the witch hazel and lavender essential oil into an amber glass spray bottle. Close the bottle and shake well to combine. Use the spray when ready, but exercise caution when using essential oils around children or pets.
- Store the lavender spray in a cool, dry place to preserve freshness.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
