Does eucalyptus really help you sleep? Or is this just more of that natural mumbo jumbo you can roll your eyes about and move on? (Celery juice and weight loss tea, anyone?)
In short, yes—this is one all-natural trend that’s totally legit. Coming from an evergreen tree that’s native to Australia, this leaf delivers a cooling, soothing effect that makes bedtime more serene than ever.
How Does Eucalyptus Help You Sleep?
So, how does eucalyptus work, anyway? We won’t deep dive into the science of it all, but here are some highlights: Eucalyptus contains compounds like a-pinene and limonene, which can set your mind at ease and increase the brain’s blood flow. Eucalyptus is also a natural decongestant, meaning it’s the perfect remedy when a stuffy nose or icky phlegm is keeping you up at night. The quick-growing leaf is even hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, so it helps prevent the spread of illness-causing bacteria while you snooze.
Ways to Use Eucalyptus to Promote Better Sleep
Before you jump the gun and rush out to buy some, let’s talk about ways you can safely use eucalyptus to promote better sleep. After all, you’re probably not going to stuff eucalyptus clippings into your pillow. Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate soothing eucalyptus into your sleep routine.
1. Oil Diffuser
One of the best ways to enjoy the perks of eucalyptus is by buying it from a reputable essential oil brand. Place your eucalyptus oil in a diffuser before bedtime to clear congestion, minimize snoring, and lessen your tossing and turning in the night. Up your game by adding some equally effective peppermint oil into the mix, too.
2. Eucalyptus Blanket
Eucalyptus oil isn’t the only way to reap the benefits of this wonderful tree. If you’re a hot sleeper, snag a eucalyptus comforter and get ready for blissful sleep. Eucalyptus blankets are a naturally cooling material, meaning you can get the comfort of a cozy blanket without breaking out in a sweat—even mid-summer.
3. Apply to Skin
Don’t have a diffuser? Bring that eucalyptus oil back on the scene by applying it to your skin. But don’t just slather the oil directly onto your skin—you’ll want to use a carrier oil or pour a few drops into a hydrating lotion to ensure you can safely enjoy the sleep-inducing effects of eucalyptus oil.
4. Use in the Shower
If you’re someone who loves a good evening shower to help you wind down, you can take things to the next level with the help of eucalyptus. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil directly to the floor of your shower for a steamy, calming shower experience perfect for pre-sleep.
5. Spray-On Pillowcase
If you won’t want to keep your oil diffuser running all night long, another simple alternative is to add a spritz or two of eucalyptus oil onto your pillowcase. Your pillow will smell fresh, and those antimicrobial properties minimize allergy- and cold-inducing dust mites and other bacteria. You’ll finally get the peaceful sleep you crave.
Other Essential Oils to Try
Once you’ve added eucalyptus essential oil to your nightly drill, you might be itching to try other essential oils. Lavender, bergamot, and Frankincense are other all-natural sleep aids that can help you get more z’s. They’ll lessen anxiety, help you feel calm, and give you the grounding effect you need to fall into a deep sleep.
