Aromatherapy is a branch of alternative medicine that makes use of plant extracts known as essential oils and other aromatic plant extracts in order to have a healing affect on the health and mood of an individual. Essential oils have been used since ages to elevate the mood and to cure various disorders related to stress, sleep and anxiety. Aromatherapy for insomnia is considered to be one of the most effective ways of curing this disorder and does not have any side effects. Almost 15 to 25 percent of adolescents and adults are affected by insomnia. Various combinations of essential oils are known to treat this disorder and help restore the normal sleeping patterns of individuals.

Aromatherapy for insomnia: essential oils that work

Before going to sleep, it is recommended that individuals with insomnia take a bath with a blend of the essential oils of geranium and roman chamomile that are helpful in enabling one to unwind and relaxing the mind. One cup of chamomile tea is also known to induce sleep and helps fight insomnia.

Essential oils of Neroli, Patchouli, Chamomile, Sandalwood, Lavender and Ylang Ylang are used widely to treat insomnia. You can sprinkle a few drops of the essential oils on your pillow or on a handkerchief or add them to warm bath water for decreasing insomnia and inducing sleep.

Roman chamomile: This essential oil has relaxing and calming properties. It is very effective for children and helps reduce excessive anxiety and insomnia.

Lavender: This essential oil has anti-depressing and soothing properties and is used to enhance digestion and calm the nervous system. It helps reduce insomnia, headaches and depression.

Neroli: This essential oil has non-toxic and relaxing properties and is used for treating insomnia, irritability, shock and panic.

Sandalwood: This essential oil has relaxing and anti-depressant properties.

Ylang Ylang: This essential oil has antidepressant and relaxing properties and is used in the treatment of insomnia, stress and excitability.