Essential oils are becoming a very popular way to alleviate many health issues. But did you know they can also help with your adjustment to CPAP therapy? Getting used to a CPAP isn’t easy. If you need that extra boost to fall asleep and don’t want to reach for a sleeping pill, try these essential oils as an alternative!
Our Sense of Smell
The sense of smell is the fastest road to the emotional region of the brain. Instead of focusing on all that is going on with your machine, imagine being able to only focus on a scent that takes you to a far away, calming place. By simply incorporating scents that encourage relaxation to your CPAP machine, you can fall asleep faster and even look forward to therapy.
Chamomile Oil
This lovely aroma is used frequently by tea enthusiasts. Many people enjoy chamomile tea, because of its soothing benefits. The oil can not only help relieve anxiety, but one study has even shown that it can reduce nightmares.
Rose Oil
When you think of roses, although a pleasant smell, you might not conjure up images of relaxation and sleep. However, rose oil can help reduce stress, anxiety and depression. There’s a reason why this scent is used in night creams. It can help decrease your blood pressure and breathing rate as you lie down.
Lavender Oil
We would be remiss to not mention this tried and true favorite. It is the most studied essential oil with hundreds of findings in favor of its use as a relaxation herb. This flowery scent has been proven as an effective treatment for insomnia. Before these studies, it has been used for centuries.
Cedar Wood Oil
If you want to be transported to a cozy cabin in the woods, this is for you! It comes from tree bark which has an earthy and sweet scent. This oil reportedly benefits sleep quality and can help many decompress negative emotions.
Frankincense
This famous scent has been used for centuries. It smells woody, sweet and spicy. Studies have shown it to be effective in its treatment for pain, which can lead to an easier transition to sleep.
If you are looking to improve your therapy experience, try one of these oils. You can use aromatherapy with your CPAP with the Pur-Sleep Aromatherapy Basic Starter kit!