A serene, soothing scent, a floral fragrance, or a crisp, clean smell … your choice of aroma may help you get a better night’s sleep. If you are one of the millions of people who have trouble sleeping, you may want to think about how your bed smells — and, no, we aren’t kidding. 

In 2016, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that one in three Americans do not get the recommended daily seven hours of sleep, which can increase the risk of developing chronic medical conditions like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental distress. The CDC also declared sleep disorders a public health epidemic, as accidents, injuries, and an increase in illnesses were reported due to lack of sleep (via American Association for the Advancement of Science).

While there are many tools and treatments to help you snooze soundly, the simplest place to start may be right under your nose. According to Healthline, there are some scents that may act as a natural calming treatment and even a sleep aid.

Pillow mist scents to try

Pillow mists are a mixture of floral waters, herbal ingredients, and essential oils that you can spray on your linens at bedtime. Breathing in the soothing aromas can create a calming effect, slow your heart rate, reduce your anxiety, and help you drift off to sleep (via Marie Claire). 

A study in Chronobiology International reports that lavender, as aromatherapy, acts as a mild sedative, promoting better, deeper sleep. Neurologist Tim Jacob, MD, professor at the School of Biosciences of Cardiff University, tells Marie Claire that the smell of lavender “… increases alpha waves in the frontal regions of the brain, encouraging you to relax.” Furthermore, the scent has been shown to reduce blood pressure and increase melatonin production, both of which assist with better slumber.

Chamomile is another scent that you may want to try for improved sleep, as it has been shown to reduce anxiety, and clary sage can also assist with calming and promote better sleep by decreasing respiratory rate and blood pressure (via Medical News Today). Amy Galper, executive director of the New York Institute of Aromatherapy, tells The Cut that clary sage is also “… known to be anti-spasmodic, so they will actually reduce and relieve the stress in your muscles.”

There are many sleep mists on the market varying in price and scent. Choose one that appeals to you, because you really can’t lose. The best case scenario is getting a wonderful night sleep, and the worst case … you and your linens will smell glorious.

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