Research into the scent of lavender and sleep has been attracting attention in recent years. The scent of lavender has long been known to have a relaxing effect, and it has been suggested that it may have a particularly positive effect on sleep. Below, we will explain in detail the mechanism and research results.
Lavender is widely used in the form of lavender oil and dried herb, and its aroma is said to bring people a sense of peace and relaxation. When it comes to sleep, the scent of lavender may improve the quality of your sleep. In fact, many studies have investigated this effect.
Relaxation: The scent of lavender has been shown to affect the nervous system, promoting relaxation and stress reduction, which means smelling lavender before bedtime can help relax your body and mind.
Improved sleep quality: The main effect of the scent of lavender on sleep is to improve the quality of your sleep. Studies have shown that aromatherapy using the scent of lavender can help you fall asleep more deeply and reduce the number of awakenings during sleep.
Neurophysiological mechanisms: Research is ongoing into the mechanism by which lavender's scent influences sleep. It is believed that lavender's components promote the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, inducing relaxation and sleepiness.
Applications: Lavender-scented aroma diffusers and pillow sprays can help prepare the environment before bedtime. Lavender oil can also be added to bath salts and massage oils to enhance relaxation before sleep.
Caution: The scent of lavender can be counterproductive for some people, depending on the individual. It is important to experiment with it to see what works best for you. It is also important to properly dilute lavender oil if you are applying it directly to the skin.
Overall, the positive effects of lavender scent on sleep are well supported by science, and its potential for relaxation and improved sleep quality make it an important factor in supporting mental and physical wellbeing for many people.
