For some of us, poor sleep is a chronic issue, while for others it only happens occasionally. If you find yourself awake at night, try this easy-to-make sleep spray with magnesium and calming essential oils. It helps you relax without relying on sleep medications.
The spray is simple to make and comes in two variations depending on its use. Both glycerin and vodka help disperse the essential oils in water. The vodka version can be used on the skin but may be drying, especially over large areas. If you plan to use it as a room and fabric spray, vodka is the better choice. Glycerin, being a humectant, is better for skin application.
Magnesium for Better Sleep
Epsom salts, which are a form of magnesium, are used in the spray for their relaxing properties. Magnesium helps calm the nerves and promote restful sleep. Many people are deficient in this critical mineral, so this spray is an easy way to get more magnesium into your body.
Vetiver Essential Oil
Vetiver has a deep, earthy scent that can be overpowering on its own. It supports the nervous system and helps calm the mind. It is useful for emotional stress and has similar effects to anxiety medication. Vetiver is a potent relaxer, great for when milder essential oils aren’t enough.
Orange Essential Oil
Citrus oils are uplifting and invigorating. While orange oil is good for daytime use, it also helps improve sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, depression and anxiety often cause insomnia. Orange essential oil alleviates anxiety, stress, agitation, and racing thoughts for a calmer night.
Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood oil, distilled from cedar bark, has an earthy scent and many uses, including calming the mind. It acts as a sedative, relieving stress and tension for better sleep. Inhaling cedarwood oil releases serotonin in the brain, which then converts to melatonin, the sleep-inducing hormone.
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 T Epsom salts
Equipment
– 4-ounce glass spray bottle
– Pot
Directions
1. Heat the water and Epsom salts together in a pot until combined. Allow the mixture to cool. Skip this step if using the spray only 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.
To Use the Sleepy Time Spray
Spray this on your bed, pillow, or in the air around the bedroom before bed. It can also be lightly misted on the skin shortly before bedtime. If using the spray on fabrics, use vodka instead of glycerin and omit the Epsom salts.
