For some of us, poor sleep is a regular problem, while for others, it happens occasionally. The next time you find yourself lying awake at night, try this simple sleep spray made with magnesium and calming essential oils. It will help you feel more relaxed without needing risky sleeping pills.
The best part is that this spray is super easy to make. There are two variations depending on how you want to use it. Both glycerin and vodka help mix the essential oils with water.
If you use the version with vodka on your skin, it might be drying, especially over large areas. But if you plan to use it as a room or fabric spray, vodka is a better choice. Glycerin, being a humectant, is better for the skin.
Magnesium for Better Sleep
Epsom salts are mixed with water for their relaxing effects. Epsom salts are a form of magnesium, which helps calm the nerves and promote restful sleep. Many people lack this vital mineral, so this spray is an easy way to increase magnesium intake.
Vetiver Essential Oil
Vetiver has a deep, earthy scent that can be strong on its own. It supports the nervous system and helps calm the mind. It’s particularly useful for emotional stress and has effects similar to anxiety medication. Vetiver is a potent relaxer and is great when milder essential oils aren’t effective.
Orange Essential Oil
Citrus oils like orange are uplifting and invigorating. While orange oil is good for daytime use, it also helps with sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, depression and anxiety often cause insomnia. Orange essential oil helps reduce anxiety, stress, and racing thoughts for a calmer night.
Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood oil comes from the bark of the cedarwood tree and has an earthy, woodsy scent. It has multiple uses, including calming the mind. This sedative relieves stress and tension, promoting a relaxing sleep. Inhaling cedarwood oil releases serotonin in the brain, which is then converted into the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin.
Sleepy Time Spray
Ingredients
– 15 drops Orange essential oil
– 17 drops Cedarwood essential oil
– 8 drops Vetiver essential oil
– 1 tsp vodka or glycerin
– Distilled water
– 1 Tbsp Epsom salts
Equipment
– 4-ounce glass spray bottle
– Pot
Directions
1. Heat the water and Epsom salts in a pot until combined, then let it cool. Skip this step and use distilled water if you’re only using the spray for fabrics and bed linens.
2. Combine the vodka or glycerin and essential oils in the spray bottle and swirl to mix.
3. Add the water to the bottle, leaving a ½ inch space at the top. Cap the bottle and shake well to combine.
How to Use the Sleepy Time Spray
– Spray it on your bed, pillow, or in the air around your bedroom before bed.
– You can also lightly mist it on your skin shortly before bedtime.
– If using the spray on fabrics, use vodka instead of glycerin and omit the Epsom salt.