Are essential oils popular just because they smell nice? Well, yes, they are. Although there is more to it than you may think.

The practice of aromatherapy works by using essential oils to stimulate receptors in our nose. Smell is the only sense that sends signals directly to the emotion and memory stations of the brain and that’s why we often find that certain scents, such as a loved one’s perfume or aftershave, can bring back fond memories and promote positivity. It also means that certain smells can help us to get our recommended 8 hours.

We’ve put together a list of our five sleep-inducing scents to help you relax, unwind and enjoy a good night’s sleep. 

Lavender is usually the most popular choice as it helps us to both fall asleep quickly and improve the quality of our sleep throughout the night. It’s also been the most studied essential oil in association with relaxation and easing anxiety.

Lavender has a highly sedative effect with relatively few side effects and improves energy in the days following its use.So, what is the difference between High Altitude Lavender Oil and regular Lavender Oil? This type of lavender is grown 1,000-1,500m above sea level which gives it a much higher ester content. As a result, the oil distilled from the plant is a higher quality, full-bodied product. In other words, it’s the ‘Dom Perignon’ of the Lavender world.

How to use: We recommend putting a few drops directly on to your pillow before bed. If you tend to wake up throughout the night, add 10-15 drops to your diffuser on the intermittent setting. 

High Altitude Lavender Essential Oil. €25. Buy now. 

The Bergamot orange is a citrus fruit with a uniquely sweet, floral scent. Like Lavender, this essential oil relieves anxiety and, therefore, improves sleep quality.

This is because it is high in flavanoids, powerful antioxidant agents that are usually found in fruit and vegetables.While many citrus scents are stimulating and can increase energy levels, Bergamot Oil has been shown to slow the heart rate and reduce blood pressure. It can also ease headaches and reduce muscle tension. 

How to use: Wind down in the evening by adding 10-15 drops to your diffuser two hours before going to sleep. You can also add it to Lavender Oil to create a brighter bedtime blend.

Bergamot Essential Oil. €18. Buy now.  

Bourbon Geranium is quite often considered to be the finest of the Geranium plants. As a result, oil distilled from the small flowers and leaves tends to be richer, deeper and more well-rounded with subtle, floral overtones.

Geranium Bourbon is a great ‘balancing’ oil and helps to create the right psyche for sleep.

This makes it the perfect oil for those who find their thoughts racing the second that they put their head to the pillow. We also highly recommend this oil for those that are guilty of scrolling through social media in bed. (We’ve all been guilty of falling into an Instagram black hole late at night, haven’t we?)

How to use: Add 4-12 drops to a bowl of steaming water and inhale for up to 10 minutes before sleep. You can also add to your diffuser.

Geranium Bourbon Essential Oil. €30. Buy now.