If you’re wishing you had gone to bed a bit earlier last night (or were able to sleep in this morning) you’re not alone. In fact, according to the Centers of Disease Control, 35% of Americans don’t get enough sleep (seven hours) every night. Maybe you reach for coffee to get going in the morning or take a supplement or prescription to help you shut down at the end of the day—but these are just quick fixes that mask the underlying problem at hand. Lavender may be the nature-based solution you need, and there are countless studies that show its relaxing benefits. In fact, a recent study showed that the aromatherapy effects of lavender help reduce anxiety without the common side effects associated with drugs like Xanax and Valium. Whether you’re looking to keep your cool at work or set the stage for better sleep, here are a few lavender aromatherapy options to try.
GuruNanda Lavender Essential Oil
There are several ways to use this pure lavender essential oil, including adding to a diffuser, blending 20 drops with five ounces of water to make a room spray, or mixing two drops with coconut oil and applying to the temples and back of the neck to reduce stress. Remember, all lavender essential oils are not created equal, and you want one made with pure lavender, not lavandin. Though derived from similar plants, their chemical compositions and scents are different—and lavender is what you need if you’re looking for optimal relaxation.
Soohyang Lavender Darling Candle
Calming lavender comingles with the comforting scent of violet leaves so you can surround yourself with relaxation no matter where you light this candle—and it’s so pretty you’ll probably want to keep it on display. To make the most of its aromatherapy benefits, be sure to give it at least an hour to infuse your space with its mind-soothing aroma.
Apotheke Hinoki Lavender Lotion
This luxurious body moisturizer doesn’t officially launch until April 15, but you’ll certainly want to make a note in your calendar. With a serene scent that blends lavender, Hinoki cypress, lotus flower and sandalwood—and a plant-based aloe vera base for moisturizing, anti-aging and healing benefits—it’s also available in a candle and reed diffuser if you can't wait to give it a whiff.
Jurlique Lavender Hydrating Mist
Combining the calming aromatherapy benefits of lavender with a bonus skin-hydrating boost courtesy of marshmallow root extract and glycerin, this delicate mist works double duty for your sanity and your skin. As if that weren't enough, you also get antioxidant protection against environmental assaults with grapefruit seed extract in addition to a mini-break from stress every time you use it.
Slip Sleep Mist
You’ll want to make room on your night table for this room mist because it’s sure to help you drift off to dream land. This sleep-inducing aromatherapy spray features lavender and chamomile to induce a peaceful pre-sleep state—and if you pair it with Slip’s Charcoal Sleep Mask, you’re sure to be out like a light.
