Aromatherapy For Sleep

Who should try Aromatherapy?

Don't you find it ironic that with all our modern comforts and conveniences that are supposed to make life easier, more than half of all Americans suffer from sleep deprivation? As big as an issue that insomnia is, most people are so used to it that they don't even consider it a problem. Most of us wander around, every day, in a fog, operating at less than our best, without getting treatment for the one thing that can make all the difference until effects of chronic insomnia starts to interfere with mental activity and health status.

No one really wants to bring more chemicals needlessly into their bodies, and it would be sad to be forced to do so just to get some rest-- something that is a natural body function. It s always advised to try non-pharmacological interventions before starting tranquilizers or sleep inducing medications, as these should only be considered as the last option. Besides a number of sleep aid interventions that are in use today, aromatherapy is definitely one of the best and very safe.Aromatherapy is a better option-- a safe and healthy sleeping aid that can be used by anyone who has inorganic insomnia.

Inorganic insomnia is referred to insufficient sleep or difficulty in induction of sleep when no identifiable cause can be as attributed like obstruction of nasal passageways, stress or hormonal imbalance. Obviously in the presence of any organic cause, intervention and treatment of the underlying pathology is required in order to cure insomnia. If, however, you have a clean bill of health, then you might try some of these aromatheraputic alternatives to sleeping pills.

Before starting Aromatherapy, you should understand what it is. Aromatherapy oils are used in treating (or as a companion treatment) to a wide range of conditions. It is believed they can prevent certain diseases and infections due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Oils used in aromatherapy are known as essential oils, and they're mainly derived from plant extracts (the good ones are, though some poor quality products are synthetic, so buyer beware!). These are purely herbal, and since they're not taken internally they have almost no side effects.

These extracts are volatile. Upon stimulation by any physical agent that increases the energy of these molecules, they spread evenly throughout the atmosphere. Physical agents that introduce these molecules come in the form of vapors, oil massages or soaps; however, it is best effective when used via vaporizer or diffuser.

Aromatherapy should not be thought of as a cure for insomnia; It's just a sleeping aid that makes sleeping easier for you by providing a soothing and comforting environment. This kind of environment not only decreases the time to induce sleep, but also improve the quality of sleep.The most established cause of insomnia is said to be anxiety and irritability, which is greatly reduced by the use of aromatherapy. The basic principle is to use naturally occurring scented oil that evokes a sense of sensuality and hygiene, making it easier to go to sleep and also to maintain your sleep all night.

Aromatherapy has been in use for centuries. Throughout human history, a sense of hygiene and cleanliness has also evolved for the promotion of health, be it mental, physical or spiritual. Some advantages are:

• It's natural, non-chemical and 'green'
• oils have antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
• it has no side effects
• it's not addictive
• it's an inexpensive therapeutic process
• you can administer it at home without an expert or specialized equipment

A wide variety of oils are used in aromatherapy. Few of the more common products are:

· Lavender oil

· Peppermint oil

· Thyme oil

· Tea tree

· Rose oil

· Sandalwood

Applications

These oils are long been in use to induce sleep and to make bedroom environment beautiful and comforting. Not very long time ago, people use aroma oil sprays and cotton balls soaked in aroma oil, however these are messy, can be irritating and are not the best application for aromatherapy.

Now a days, companies have designed different products that have not just made aromatherapy very easy but also very cost effective and within approach of everyone.

Diffusers are sold in the market in the form of machines or pumps. The diffuser uses heat in the form of steam, ultrasonic or ionizing rays that breaks the scent or oil droplets in mist sized particles, making it easier to infuse it into the air and spread equally throughout the room. You can pick your own diffuser based on your own preference of color, size and other features like mood lights.

Diffusers come with pads or fillers that have oil refills that can last for days. These machines vary in price depending upon company and individual preference and budget; however an excellent quality diffuser generally comes under $100.

A Local applicator includes oils, lotions and soaps that you actually apply topically or use in the bath. Before going to bed, a warm bath with your soap that has your favorite aroma fragrance will not only reduce the time required to fall asleep, but also your sleep will be far more comforting and relaxing than it would be otherwise.

Spa therapy revolves around the same methodology of massaging your body with natural oils that sooth your nerves and helps to relieve all your stress. These are widely available in the market in the form of body sprays, body mist, soaps, body lotions and creams. The average cost is under 60 USD.

Lamps and crock pots are the most inexpensive options for aromatherapy. They give you less control than diffusers, but they work on the same principle of infusing the room with the pleasant scents and healing properties. Some are electric; you simply add a few drops of oil to the reservoir and plug it in; the heating element will warm the device enough to cause the oil to rise into the air like steam. Some are not electric, and require putting a tea candle into a space under the reservoir. One simple product is a circular brass ring that fits over the bulb of a lamp-- the ring has a reservoir to pour in the oil, and the heat of the lamp bulb is what diffuses it. This is not the best option for while you're sleeping, but as you prepare for bed you can add some oils to the lamp and leave it on for 30 minutes before retiring. These products can be obtained for less than $15 US dollars.

Aromatherapy is a smart and beautiful way of ending your day. You must try this mode of non-pharmacological means of improving sleep and I bet it will improve a lot other stuff in your life besides sleep like your sex life, your anxiety and your mood. Moreover, you have a wide variety to pick from, with features that will abolish the need of all other tactics you employ to get a peaceful and sound sleep at night.