Ever wondered why you feel instantly calm when you smell certain scents? Here’s a fun fact: our sense of smell is the only one directly connected to the brain’s limbic system the part responsible for emotions and memory. That’s why certain aromas can quickly make you feel relaxed, happy, or even sleepy. And if you’re working on boosting your wellness this season, don’t miss our 7 Expert Tips for Your 2025 Summer Shape Up Success — from scent hacks to smarter fitness habits, it’s all about feeling good inside and out.
If counting sheep isn’t cutting it, you’re not alone. Roughly 1 in 3 adults don’t get enough quality sleep. In today’s fast-paced world, more people are turning to natural remedies like essential oils to catch those elusive Zs. While lavender continues to be the go-to option, there’s a whole world of alternatives worth exploring in 2025.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the 9 best oils for sleep yes, there’s more out there than just lavender! We’ll also cover how to use them, what makes them effective, and why they might just be your new bedtime best friend.
Why Use Essential Oils for Sleep?
Before we dive into the list, let’s answer the big question: Why do essential oils work for sleep?
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that carry the natural scent and benefits of the plant they’re derived from. When inhaled or applied to the skin (properly diluted, of course), they can have calming effects on the body and mind.
This practice, known as aromatherapy, works by stimulating smell receptors in the nose, which send messages to the brain that can affect emotions, mood, and even hormone balance. In short, essential oils help create an environment that prepares your body and mind for a good night’s sleep.
How to Use Essential Oils That Help with Sleep
Using essential oils is simple, but doing it right matters. Here are some of the most effective ways:
- Diffuser: Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser with water. Let it run for an hour before bedtime.
- Pillow Spray: Mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and lightly mist your pillow or sheets.
- Topical Application: Always dilute with a carrier oil (like coconut or almond oil) and apply to pulse points like wrists, temples, or the soles of your feet.
- Bath: Add a few drops to a warm bath for a pre-bedtime ritual that soothes both body and mind.
Now, let’s explore the best oils for relaxation and sleep in 2025 — starting with something other than lavender!
#1. Chamomile – Your Bedtime Herbal Tea in a Bottle
You’ve probably had chamomile tea before bed, right? Well, the essential oil form is just as sleep-inducing. Roman chamomile, in particular, has a sweet, apple-like scent and is known for its calming properties.
Why it works: Chamomile oil helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it ideal for people who find themselves tossing and turning due to racing thoughts.
Best for:
- People with anxiety-related insomnia
- Evening wind-down routines
- Calming children before bedtime
#2. Cedarwood – The Forest-Scented Stress Buster
Cedarwood has a deep, woody aroma that feels like a walk through a peaceful forest. This oil is grounding — helping to quiet mental chatter and bring balance to emotions.
Why it works: Its active compound, cedrol, has been shown to promote drowsiness and decrease heart rate, preparing your body for sleep.
Best for:
- Nervous tension and overthinking
- Creating a cozy nighttime atmosphere
- Mixing with other oils for deeper effects
#3. Bergamot – Citrus With a Calm Twist
Unlike most citrus oils that are energizing, bergamot is the exception. This citrusy floral oil has unique relaxation properties, thanks to its natural ability to reduce cortisol levels — the dreaded stress hormone.
Why it works: Bergamot helps ease anxiety and improve mood, creating the perfect mental setting for deep rest.
Best for:
- Stress-related insomnia
- People who prefer slightly fruity but not overpowering scents
- Day-to-night transition rituals
#4. Vetiver – The Grounding Earthy Hero
Vetiver is nature’s version of a weighted blanket. Its earthy, smoky scent is heavy and grounding, creating a sense of physical and emotional stability.
Why it works: Vetiver has natural sedative qualities, helping you unwind both mentally and physically after a long day.
Best for:
- Deep, undisturbed sleep
- Evening meditation or journaling
- Combining with lighter oils like lavender or jasmine
#5. Sweet Marjoram – The Peaceful Underdog
Often overlooked, this floral and herbaceous oil is known to quiet the nervous system and reduce sleep-disrupting physical tension and pain.
Why it works: It’s perfect for relaxing sore muscles and quieting the mind, both of which are key for fruitful sleep.
Best for:
- Stiff or achy muscles that disrupt rest
- People who wake up multiple times during the night
- Aromatherapy blends for pain relief + sleep
#6. Ylang Ylang – Floral Calm in a Bottle
Pronounced “ee-lang ee-lang,” this tropical flower brings a rich, sweet fragrance that can lower blood pressure and heart rate while lifting your mood.
Why it works: Ylang Ylang acts almost like a gentle sedative, both calming the nervous system and reducing feelings of anxiety.
Best for:
- Those who love sweet, floral scents
- Nighttime relaxation rituals
- Mixing with oils like cedarwood or frankincense
#7. Sandalwood – The Spiritual Sleep Assistant
This woodsy oil is not just for incense lovers. Sandalwood has long been used in spiritual and meditative practices thanks to its soothing and warm scent.
Why it works: It calms the mind, eases tension, and encourages a sense of inner peace — the perfect prep for deep, satisfying rest.
Best for:
- Meditative wind-down rituals
- People with racing thoughts at bedtime
- Complementing other relaxing oils
#8. Clary Sage – The Mood Lifter for Your Dreams
Known for regulating hormones, clary sage can be a fantastic oil for improving sleep, especially during emotionally intense periods.
Why it works: Clary sage can reduce feelings of depression and stress, making it ideal for those whose sleep struggles are tied to emotional well-being.
Best for:
- Hormonal sleep issues (like PMS or menopause)
- Emotional relaxation before bed
- Mood-supporting aromatherapy routines
#9. Frankincense – The Ancient Oil of Serenity
This biblical oil is more than a holiday staple. Frankincense has a deep, resinous scent that promotes clarity, safety, and serenity.
Why it works: It’s been used for centuries to calm the nervous system, lower inflammation, and balance overall mood — which may explain why it’s gaining traction as one of the best oils for sleep in 2025.
Best for:
- Anxiety-induced insomnia
- Stressful or restless nights
- Pairing with lavender for a power combo
But What About Lavender?
We couldn’t talk about essential oils that help with sleep without mentioning the queen herself: lavender. Even though this list focuses on alternatives, lavender still holds its crown for good reason.
Why people love it: It’s gentle, safe for all ages, and widely studied for promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality. If you’re looking for options, the best lavender essential oil for sleep in 2025 comes from brands that use organic, steam-distilled methods — offering purity and potency in every drop.
How to Choose the Right Oil for You
The best part? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Finding your ideal sleep oil may take a bit of experimenting.
Here’s how to start:
- Test the scent. Your body responds favorably to scents you enjoy — if you dislike the smell, skip it.
- Mix and match. Blending oils can create a personalized sleep potion — try chamomile + vetiver or sandalwood + ylang ylang.
- Start slow. Introduce one oil at a time to identify what works best for you.
Safety Tips Before You Dive In
While these oils are natural, they’re highly concentrated — so use them with care:
- Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying to skin.
- Avoid direct contact with eyes or mucous membranes.
- Check for allergies before extended use.
- Consult your doctor if you’re pregnant, nursing, or have underlying conditions.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best oils for sleep goes beyond just lavender. If you’ve tried lavenders with little success or just crave variety, 2025 is the perfect time to explore the full spectrum of essential oils that soothe, sedate, and support your natural sleep cycle.
Whether it’s the woody comfort of cedarwood or the soothing aroma of Roman chamomile, integrating the right oils into your nighttime ritual might just be your new secret weapon against sleepless nights.
Ready to start your dream journey? Go ahead—sniff, blend, relax… and rest easy.
I’m a wellness coach and nutrition advisor with a passion for helping people feel their best. I write about fitness, mental health, and holistic living so you can live a healthier, balanced life.
