Lavender for Stress Relief and Insomnia

Many people appreciate lavender (Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandula officinalis) for its aromatic fragrance, used in soaps, shampoos, and sachets for scenting clothes.

Research is starting to confirm lavender's sedative qualities.

The studies with brain wave frequency have shown that smelling lavender increases alpha waves in the back of the head, which are associated with relaxation. It's been found to lengthen total sleep time, increase deep sleep, and make people feel refreshed.

It appears to work better for women, possibly because women tend to have a more acute sense of smell.

There are various ways to use Lavender aromatherapy for stress relief. Lavender in particular is often used for its soothing qualities and ability to promote deep sleep. (See this article for more aromatheraphy benefits)

The good thing about lavender is that it begins to work quickly. Because of the convenience and ease of use that comes with it, lavender aromatherapy is an ideal stress relief tool.

• Try putting a lavender sachet under your pillow
• Place one to two drops of lavender essential oil in a handkerchief
• Add several drops of lavender oil to a bath -- the drop in body temperature after a warm bath also helps with sleep.
• Keep a dried lavender bouquet on your nightstand
• Dab some lavender oil on your neck before turning in, or burn a lavender-scented candle while you're getting ready for bed.

Another great way to calm with lavender is to use a lavender eye pillow.

To make your own eye pillow, take a thin piece of fabric (a soft cotton from an old t’shirt or silk from an old head scarf would work well) and cut two rectangles about 8-9 inches long by 3-4 inches wide. If the fabric has a wrong and right (printed) side, lay it flat so that the two right sides are in and touching. Using a sewing machine or a simple needle and thread, sew around the perimeter, leaving an inch or two inch gap on one edge. Be sure to use small, neat stitches. Push the fabric thru the opening to turn the rectangle right side out. By way of the opening, fill the pillow with a mixture of flax seed, lavender and hops. The flax seed is for weight while the lavender will help calm your body and the hops will help with sleep. Using a needle and thread sew the pillow the rest of the way shut.

No time to make your own eye pillow? Check out lavender eye pillows on Amazon.com

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