Lull yourself to sleep with these cozy smells.
In fact, research shows that scent affects thequality and duration of sleep.
Heres what scents they suggest, all of which can be found in the form of essential oils.
Photo:Morrowlight/Getty Images
Essential oils, when used on their own, may irritate the skin.
Some research indicates that it may reduce blood pressure, so you should consult your doctor before using it.
This makes it great for reducing stress and encouraging your body to relax before bed.
Lavender
No list of sleep-promoting scents would be complete without lavender.
Lavender has a soothing, floral, and slightly herbal aroma, Otis says.
Like other essential oils,lavenderworks by helping to calm the nervous system.
If youre applying lavender oil on your skin, confirm to dilute it with a carrier oil.
It supports full-body relaxation and deep rest for the mind.
Weiss agrees, recommending chamomile for reducing anxiety and improving sleep.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood is a common ingredient in a variety of products, from shampoo to deodorant.
If youre looking for a fragrance to lull you to sleep, consider trying cedarwood essential oil.
Cedarwood has a rich, woody, and earthy smell that feels grounding, Lewis says.
Its known to reduce cortisol levels and encourage deeper, more restorative sleep.
Like ylang ylang, cedarwood has sedative properties, promoting the release of melatonin and reducing overnight restlessness.
However, essential oils arent a substitute for medical treatment.
Essential oils can interact with other medications or have restricted uses in patients with certain medical conditions.
In addition, essential oils arent appropriate for everyone.