Not Your Grandma's Lavender
When you think of lavender, you might picture fragrant soaps, potpourri, or even your grandma’s sock drawer. But did you know that lavender has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to promote relaxation and improve sleep? Science is now backing up what ancient healers have known all along - lavender is a powerful ally for restful nights and reduced stress.
Several studies have shown that lavender’s essential oils can lower heart rate, reduce blood pressure, and calm the nervous system, all of which help prepare the body for sleep. One study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that lavender oil increased slow-wave sleep, the deep sleep phase crucial for feeling rested and refreshed. Another study found that inhaling lavender before bedtime helped improve sleep quality and reduce nighttime awakenings.
So, how exactly does lavender support sleep? Here are five science-backed ways:
1. Lavender Reduces Anxiety and Stress
Feeling wound up before bed? Lavender has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone that keeps your brain on high alert. By calming the nervous system, lavender helps quiet racing thoughts and prepares your mind for sleep.
2. Lavender Improves Sleep Quality
Studies have found that lavender aromatherapy increases deep sleep and REM sleep (when you dream), which are essential for cell repair, and waking feeling truly rested.
3. Lavender Supports a Healthy Sleep-Wake Cycle
Your body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, relies on signals from the environment to regulate sleep. Lavender has been found to enhance melatonin production, the hormone responsible for making you feel sleepy at night. This makes it easier to fall asleep naturally and stay asleep longer.
4. Lavender Eases Muscle Tension and Aches
Tension and discomfort can make it hard to relax at night. Lavender contains natural analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory properties that help ease sore muscles, making it easier to unwind and get comfortable in bed.
5. Lavender Reduces Nighttime Restlessness
For those who toss and turn or wake frequently, lavender can help by activating calming neurotransmitters like GABA, which reduce brain activity and promote a sense of tranquility. This can lead to fewer nighttime awakenings and more continuous sleep.
Lavender is more than just a pretty scent - it’s a powerful, science-backed sleep aid that can help you drift off faster and wake up feeling refreshed. At The Physic Garden, we've tried to make it easy for you to get your evening dose of lavender with our Sleep Balm, Sleep Essential Oil, and Sleep Blend Magnesium Oil to help you create the perfect bedtime ritual. Try them today and experience the sleepy magic of lavender for yourself!
PS. If you are allergic to lavender or can't use it - we've got you covered! Our Calm Balm, Calm Essential Oil and Calm Blend Magnesium Oil have other beautiful herbs that can help ease stress and improve sleep, but without the lavender.
