10 best herbal essential oils for insomnia

Herbal essential oils for insomnia are natural extracts derived from plants, herbs, and botanicals that promote relaxation, calmness, and improved sleep quality.

They work by interacting with the brain's limbic system, releasing serotonin and melatonin to regulate sleep-wake cycles. Examples of herbal essential oils that help with insomnia include lavender, chamomile, and valerian root oil.

These oils can be inhaled directly or used in aromatherapy diffusers before bed, promoting a restful night's sleep and improving overall quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for insomnia, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian essential oils helps with insomnia because it promotes relaxation, calms the mind, and soothes the body.

The oil contains sesquiterpenes, which have a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to quiet the brain and ease tension. When inhaled or applied topically before bed, valerian essential oil can help regulate sleep patterns, reduce restlessness, and increase the quality of sleep.

As a result, individuals who struggle with insomnia can find it easier to drift off to sleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian essential oils that aid with insomnia.

• Sedative and hypnotic properties: Valerian oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep.
• Muscle relaxant properties: Valerian oil can help to relieve muscle tension and cramps, which is common among insomniacs, promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort that may keep individuals awake.
• Anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties: The anxiolytic effects of valerian oil help to reduce anxiety and stress levels, allowing individuals to calm their minds and bodies before sleep.

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make essential oils for insomnia.

• Roots: The roots are rich in sesquiterpenes, which have a sedative effect and are responsible for the relaxing properties of Valerian oil.
• Rhizomes: The rhizomes contain valerenic acid, a compound that has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress, making them ideal for insomnia relief.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for insomnia.

1. Harvest fresh or dried valerian roots from sustainable sources weighing approximately 100g.
2. Dry the valerian roots in a cool dark place for at least two weeks to reduce moisture content.
3. Steam distill the dried valerian roots in a copper still using 500ml of water at 100°c for four hours.
4. Collect and separate the essential oil from the distilled steam using a separator funnel at room temperature.
5. Filter and bottle the valeriana officinalis essential oil in dark glass containers with tight-fitting lids and store in cool dark places.

2. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with insomnia because of its calming and soothing properties that promote relaxation.

The oil's sweet, floral scent can calm a racing mind and slow down an overactive brain, making it easier to fall asleep. Additionally, the oil's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate any physical discomfort or pain that may be contributing to sleeplessness.

As a result, English lavender essential oils can create a peaceful and calming environment that fosters a restful night's sleep.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with insomnia.

• Sedative property: English Lavender essential oil has a sedative effect, helping to calm the mind and body, which can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
• Calming and soothing property: English Lavender essential oil has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help to calm and soothe the nervous system, reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.
• Antioxidant and antimicrobial property: English Lavender essential oil has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that help to protect against oxidative stress and infections, which can disrupt sleep patterns.

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for insomnia.

• Roots: The roots of the English lavender plant contain a high concentration of calming compounds, making them ideal for promoting relaxation and reducing stress-related insomnia.
• Buds: Lavender buds are rich in esters, which have a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to calm the mind and body before sleep.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for insomnia.

1. Harvest high-quality lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak bloom in late spring or early summer.
2. Dry the harvested flowers using a low-temperature air circulation dryer for 7-10 days.
3. Steam distill the dried flowers using a commercial-grade steam distillation apparatus at atmospheric pressure.
4. Collect and filter the resulting essential oil, which should have a light blue color and sweet floral scent.
5. Bottle the essential oil in dark glass containers with tight-fitting lids and store in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year.

3. Tilia x europaea

Lime essential oils helps with insomnia because of its calming and relaxing properties, which can help soothe a restless mind and body.

The citrus scent has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

Additionally, lime oil's stimulating aroma can help increase alertness during the day, without causing jitters or an energy crash, promoting a restful and rejuvenating sleep.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lime essential oils that aid with insomnia.

• Citral: A natural relaxant and calming agent that can help reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep.
• Volatile compounds: These compounds have a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to calm the mind and body, which is beneficial for improving sleep quality.
• Antioxidants: Lime essential oil contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body, which may contribute to insomnia, and promote overall relaxation.

The list below shows the primary parts of lime used to make essential oils for insomnia.

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes and other bioactive compounds, lime roots are effective in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
• Rhyzomes: Containing high concentrations of limonene and other terpenoids, lime rhyzomes help regulate sleep patterns and improve overall sleep quality.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lime for insomnia.

1. Harvest fresh tilia x europaea flowers in the morning after dew has dried for optimal oil quality.
2. Dry the harvested flowers using a food dehydrator at 35°c for 8 hours or until crumbly texture remains.
3. Steam distill the dried flowers in a small-scale still with 100 grams of material to 10 liters of distilled water.
4. Collect the essential oil after 6 hours and 30 minutes of distillation, filtering it through a coffee filter paper.
5. Store the tilia x europaea essential oil in dark glass bottles, sealed tightly, at room temperature for up to 2 years without degradation.

4. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm essential oils helps with insomnia because it has a calming effect on the mind and body.

The oil contains terpenes and flavonoids that promote relaxation, reducing anxiety and stress levels that can disrupt sleep patterns. Additionally, lemon balm has been shown to regulate the body's internal clock, helping to improve sleep quality and duration.

When inhaled or applied topically before bed, this natural remedy can help individuals fall asleep faster and enjoy a deeper, more restful slumber.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm essential oils that aid with insomnia.

• Sedative and calming effects: Lemon balm essential oil's sedative properties help to promote relaxation and reduce stress, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects: Lemon balm essential oil's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe the nervous system and reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to insomnia and other sleep disorders.
• Gaba-enhancing properties: Lemon balm essential oil contains compounds that interact with GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep and relaxation, promoting a sense of calm and reducing anxiety.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make essential oils for insomnia.

• Roots: The roots are used due to their calming properties, which help promote relaxation and reduce stress, making them suitable for insomnia relief.
• Leaves: The leaves contain high amounts of citral, a natural sedative that helps regulate sleep patterns and promote a good night's sleep.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for insomnia.

1. Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves from your garden or local market in the early morning.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator at 55°c for 8 hours.
3. Combine 200 grams of dried melissa officinalis leaves with 400 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
4. Steam distill the mixture in a small glass still for 90 minutes or until the desired oil yield is reached.
5. Filter and store the resulting essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight lid at room temperature.

5. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile essential oils helps with insomnia because it has a calming effect on the mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

The soothing aroma of chamomile oil can help to quiet a restless mind, making it easier to fall asleep. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties can ease any physical discomfort that may be contributing to sleeplessness, such as joint pain or digestive issues.

As the body and mind relax, chamomile essential oils work to create a peaceful environment, conducive to a restful night's sleep.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile essential oils that aid with insomnia.

• Anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) property: Chamomile oil helps to calm the mind and body, reducing anxiety and stress that can contribute to insomnia.
• Sedative property: Chamomile oil has a sedative effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and helping individuals fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Chamomile oil may help reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to insomnia by causing discomfort, pain, or restlessness.

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make essential oils for insomnia.

• Roots: Rich in apigenin and luteolin, roots help regulate sleep patterns and reduce anxiety.
• Flowers: Containing high levels of bisabolol and azulene, flowers promote relaxation and calmness, making them ideal for insomniac patients.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for insomnia.

1. Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water.
2. Dry the flowers using a food dehydrator at 60 degrees celsius for 24 hours or air dry.
3. Combine one cup of dried flowers with 100ml of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
4. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 14 days, shaking occasionally every 2-3 days.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids, leaving 15ml of essential oil.

6. Origanum vulgare

Wild marjoram essential oils helps with insomnia because its calming and soothing properties promote relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety that can disrupt sleep patterns.

The oil's sedative qualities help to calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

Additionally, wild marjoram oil has a gentle sedative effect on the nervous system, which helps to regulate sleep-wake cycles and promote a restful and rejuvenating sleep.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wild marjoram essential oils that aid with insomnia.

• Sedative and calming properties: Wild Marjoram essential oil has a soothing effect on the mind and body, helping to calm anxiety and stress which can contribute to insomnia.
• Muscle relaxant properties: The oil's ability to relax muscles can help alleviate physical tension and discomfort that can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.
• Anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties: Wild Marjoram essential oil has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing feelings of anxiety and restlessness that can interfere with sleep.

The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make essential oils for insomnia.

• Roots: The roots are used due to their sedative and calming properties, which can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
• Seeds: The seeds contain a high concentration of beneficial compounds that can help regulate sleep patterns and induce a peaceful night's sleep.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for insomnia.

1. Harvest fresh oregano leaves from your garden or store-bought bunches when they reach full maturity.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using air drying, dehydrator, or oven methods according to recommended times and temperatures.
3. Store dried oregano in airtight containers away from direct sunlight and heat sources for future use.
4. Use dried oregano in cooking, tea blends, and other recipes as desired.
5. Consider consulting with an experienced herbalist or aromatherapist if you wish to use oregano for therapeutic purposes.

7. Sideritis scardica

Ironwort essential oils helps with insomnia because its soothing and calming properties can ease stress and anxiety, allowing for a peaceful night's sleep.

The oil's ability to promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension can also help individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Additionally, ironwort's sedative effects can calm the mind and body, making it easier to drift off to sleep and stay in a restful state throughout the night.

This natural solution can be used as a safe and effective way to overcome insomnia without relying on medication.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ironwort essential oils that aid with insomnia.

• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: Help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to insomnia.
• Anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects: Can help calm the mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing stress-related symptoms of insomnia.
• Gaba-like activity: May interact with GABA receptors in the brain to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality.

The list below shows the primary parts of ironwort used to make essential oils for insomnia.

• Roots: Rich in sedative compounds, ironwort roots have been traditionally used to treat insomnia due to their calming effects.
• Barks: The bark of the ironwort plant contains flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to have a hypnotic effect and help with sleep quality.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ironwort for insomnia.

1. Harvest fresh sideritis scardica leaves in the morning after dew has dried.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using a clean, dry paper towel or air circulation for 24 hours.
3. Steam distill the dried sideritis scardica leaves with 30% water and 70% steam at 100°c for 4 hours.
4. Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove impurities within an hour.
5. Store the filtered herbal sideritis scardica essential oil in a dark glass bottle at room temperature for up to 6 months.

8. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop essential oils helps with insomnia because it contains sedative properties that promote relaxation and calmness, making it easier to fall asleep.

The oil's calming scent can also reduce anxiety and stress levels, which are common causes of insomnia. Additionally, maypop oil has a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to slow down brain activity and induce a deeper sleep.

By incorporating this essential oil into a bedtime routine, individuals can improve the quality of their sleep and wake up feeling rested and refreshed.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in maypop essential oils that aid with insomnia.

• Anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties: Maypop essential oil helps alleviate anxiety and stress, making it easier to fall asleep.
• Sedative properties: The essential oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing restlessness, making it ideal for insomnia relief.
• Muscle relaxant properties: Maypop essential oil can help ease muscle tension, which is often a contributor to insomnia, allowing individuals to fall asleep more easily.

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make essential oils for insomnia.

• Roots: The roots of the maypop plant are used to create essential oils that help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, making them beneficial for treating insomnia.
• Fruits: Maypop fruits are rich in calming compounds that can be extracted into essential oils to help calm the mind and body, promoting a restful night's sleep.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for insomnia.

1. Harvest fresh passiflora incarnata flowers in late afternoon when they are fully open for maximum potency.
2. Dry the flowers using a food dehydrator at 40°c for 24 hours or air-dry them for 7-10 days.
3. Combine 100g of dried passiflora incarnata flowers with 500ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place and let it steep for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar daily to facilitate infusion.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids after filtering.

9. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice essential oils helps with insomnia because of its calming and soothing properties, which promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.

The oil's aroma can help slow down an individual's heart rate and breathing, making it easier to fall asleep. Additionally, licorice root has been known for its sedative effects, which can induce a restful night's sleep by reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calmness.

As a result, incorporating licorice essential oils into one's bedtime routine can lead to improved sleep quality and duration.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice essential oils that aid with insomnia.

• Adaptogenic property: Licorice root oil helps to calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that can contribute to insomnia.
• Sedative property: The sedative effects of licorice root oil promote relaxation and reduce restlessness, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
• Antioxidant property: Licorice root oil's antioxidant properties help protect the body from oxidative stress, which can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to insomnia.

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make essential oils for insomnia.

• Roots: Licorice roots contain a high concentration of glycyrrhizin, which has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, making it an excellent choice for treating insomnia.
• Barks: The barks of the licorice plant contain flavonoids and saponins that have a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to induce a restful sleep.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for insomnia.

1. Harvest 50 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from trusted sources.
2. Grind the roots into fine powder using mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
3. Combine 20 grams of powdered root with 100 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
4. Steep the mixture in a double boiler at 50°c for 6 hours to allow extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and store the resulting essential oil in dark glass vials.

10. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with insomnia because its refreshing and calming properties can help clear a restless mind and promote a peaceful night's sleep.

The invigorating scent of peppermint oil can also increase oxygen flow to the brain, which can help alleviate symptoms of insomnia such as fatigue and mental fogginess.

Additionally, peppermint oil's cooling effect on the body can help regulate body temperature, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint essential oils that aid with insomnia.

• Anxiolytic properties: Peppermint oil has a calming effect on the mind and body, which can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep.
• Cephalic analgesic properties: Peppermint oil's ability to relieve headaches and migraines can be beneficial for individuals who experience insomnia-related head pain or tension.
• Digestive relaxant properties: Peppermint oil's digestive benefits can help alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and discomfort that often accompany insomnia, promoting a restful night's sleep.

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make essential oils for insomnia.

• Roots: The roots of peppermint have a calming effect on the nervous system, making them an excellent choice for promoting relaxation and treating insomnia.
• Barks: Peppermint bark contains compounds that help regulate sleep patterns and induce a peaceful slumber.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for insomnia.

1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves at dawn or early morning when their oil content is highest.
2. Rinse the harvested leaves with distilled water and gently shake off excess moisture.
3. Steam-distill the peppermint leaves in a 10:1 ratio with water using a glass alembic still for 4 hours.
4. Collect the resulting essential oil and filter it through a coffee filter or paper towel to remove impurities.
5. Store the peppermint essential oil in dark-tinted glass bottles with tight-fitting lids at room temperature for up to 6 months.

How to best treat insomnia with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat insomnia with herbal essential oils is by blending lavender, chamomile, and valerian root oils in a diffuser or applying them topically on the skin before bed.

The calming effects of these oils help regulate sleep patterns, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Additionally, inhaling the scent of sweet orange or bergamot oil can also stimulate serotonin production, leading to improved sleep quality.

What ailments similar to insomnia are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to insomnia that are treated with herbal essential oils are restless leg syndrome, anxiety, and depression.

Lavender oil is often used to promote relaxation and reduce stress, while bergamot oil helps alleviate anxiety and calm the mind.

Chamomile oil soothes restlessness and promotes a peaceful sleep, making it an effective treatment for individuals struggling with insomnia-like symptoms.