Does Eucalyptus Candle Help You Sleep?

ByAbigail Hall

What is Eucalyptus?

Eucalyptus trees are evergreen trees and shrubs native to Australia. The genus Eucalyptus contains over 700 species, most of which are native to Australia (https://myolaoils.com/blogs/article/fun-fact). Eucalyptus trees are fast-growing evergreens that can grow up to 300 feet tall. They have aromatic leaves that contain oils with medicinal properties (https://www.britannica.com/plant/Eucalyptus). The leaves of eucalyptus trees hang downward and have oil glands on them. When crushed, the glands release the aromatic oils, which have a strong, distinctive, menthol-like smell. The oil found in eucalyptus leaves has been used medicinally throughout history by the Aboriginal peoples of Australia. Today, eucalyptus oil is commonly used in over-the-counter cough and cold remedies.

Eucalyptus Oil and Aromatherapy

Eucalyptus oil is commonly used in aromatherapy practices. It has a fresh, earthy, and woodsy scent that is believed to promote relaxation. According to Healthline (https://www.healthline.com/health/9-ways-eucalyptus-oil-can-help), inhaling eucalyptus oil may stimulate stress hormone receptors in the brain, helping to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. The aroma of the oil can create a soothing and serene environment that makes it easier to unwind and sleep.

In aromatherapy, eucalyptus oil is either diffused into the air or added to baths. Breathing in the vaporized oil or absorbing it through the skin allows the active compounds to enter the bloodstream and exert their effects. Aromatherapists often recommend using eucalyptus to relieve tension, calm the nerves, and encourage healthy sleep.

Benefits of Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus provides a range of health benefits due to its medicinal properties. The eucalyptol compound found in eucalyptus oil has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects.

Eucalyptus works as a natural decongestant by helping to break up mucus and phlegm in the respiratory tract. A study found that cineole, the main compound in eucalyptus oil, is an effective treatment for sinusitis when used as a nasal spray.[1] The anti-inflammatory effects of cineole help to open up airways and allow for easier breathing.

Research also shows eucalyptus has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. The germicidal effects can help fight infection when eucalyptus is applied topically on the skin. Compounds in eucalyptus oil can help inhibit bacterial growth and mitigate the spread of harmful microorganisms on surfaces.[2]

How Eucalyptus Oil Promotes Sleep

Eucalyptus oil is known for its calming, relaxing scent that can help reduce stress and anxiety before bedtime. Studies show that inhaling eucalyptus oil can lower blood pressure and cortisol levels, promoting feelings of tranquility (1). The active compound eucalyptol found in the oil has demonstrated sedative and muscle relaxing effects in research (2). Diffusing eucalyptus oil or lighting a eucalyptus scented candle in the bedroom allows you to breathe in its soothing vapor, signaling to your body and mind that it’s time to unwind and prepare for sleep. The pleasant, earthy aroma sets the stage for relaxation as you get into bed.

With its ability to open up airways, eucalyptus oil can also help improve breathing (3). This allows you to take full, deep breaths as you sleep, preventing disorders like sleep apnea. For those who suffer from asthma, inhaling eucalyptus oil vapors before bed may provide relief from coughing and congestion that can interfere with sleep. Ultimately, eucalyptus oil’s multifaceted effects make it an excellent natural sleep aid.

Sources:

(1) https://www.healthline.com/health/eucalyptus-oil-for-sleep#how-it-works

(2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5195555/

(3) https://sabaiarom.com/eucalyptus-oils-respiratory-benefits/

Using Eucalyptus Candles for Sleep

One of the easiest and most convenient ways to benefit from eucalyptus aromatherapy for sleep is through candles. Eucalyptus candles provide a simple method to diffuse the essential oil and its ambient aroma throughout a bedroom (source). With just the flick of a match, you can fill your space with the calming and sleepy scent of eucalyptus.

someone lighting a eucalyptus scented candle on their nightstand before going to sleep

Candles allow for customization of the scent strength based on factors like room size, ventilation, and personal preference. Those who desire a stronger aroma can blow the candle out after a few minutes, while leaving the wick smoldering will provide a lighter scent. Testing different techniques allows sleepers to determine their optimal eucalyptus candle usage for sleep.

The convenience of candles makes them an easy addition to any nighttime routine. Place a eucalyptus candle on the nightstand or dresser and light it as part of winding down for bed. Within minutes, your bedroom will transform into a relaxing oasis perfect for falling asleep.

Ideal Usage of Eucalyptus Candles

To maximize the sleep-promoting benefits of eucalyptus candles, there are some best practices to follow when using them before bed:

  • Burn the candle for 30-60 minutes leading up to your bedtime. This allows the calming aroma of eucalyptus to fill the room and promote relaxation (1).
  • Place the candle 6-10 feet away from your bed. This prevents any potential safety issues and avoids the scent from being overpowering (2).
  • Make sure to extinguish the flame before going to sleep. Never leave a burning candle unattended. This helps avoid fire hazards (3).

Following these guidelines allows you to maximize the sleep benefits of eucalyptus candle use, while also using proper safety precautions.

Sources:

(1) https://radicesleep.com/blogs/magazine/scents-of-sleep-eucalyptus

(2) https://fourtruffles.com/blogs/wellness-journal/eucalyptus-aromatic-benefits-in-candles

(3) https://soydelicious.com/blogs/news/all-about-eucalyptus

Safety Precautions

While eucalyptus candles can provide soothing aromatherapy benefits, it’s important to be aware of some key safety precautions when burning them:

Don’t leave a burning candle unattended. Always blow it out before leaving a room or going to sleep. According to the National Fire Protection Association, candles cause around 7,000 house fires per year in the U.S. [1]

Keep candles up high and out of reach of children and pets. Young kids should never be left alone with burning candles. The eucalyptus oil can also be toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs, if ingested. [2]

Consider using soy, beeswax, or vegetable-based candles rather than paraffin wax. Some research indicates natural wax candles may burn cleaner and be safer alternatives. Just make sure any essential oils or fragrances added are also non-toxic. [3]

Never burn a candle all the way down. Extinguish it before the last half inch of wax to prevent glass breakage and potential burns or fire. Trim wicks to 1⁄4 inch before lighting to avoid high flames.

Avoid knockoffs or candles with poor quality wicks, which can create more soot. Purchase candles from reputable brands and check reviews.

Never leave a burning candle near anything flammable like curtains, blankets or stacks of paper. Keep them on sturdy candle plates on a non flammable surface.

Make sure the room is ventilated and never burn candles in small enclosed spaces. The candle should also be an appropriate size for the room.

If you begin to experience headache, nausea or irritation from a scented candle, put it out immediately. Certain individuals can be more sensitive to strong fragrances.

In summary, eucalyptus candles can be an excellent home remedy when used carefully, but shouldn’t be left unattended. Keep them safely out of reach of children and pets. With proper precautions, you can enjoy their stress-relieving aromatherapy benefits.

Other Tips for Better Sleep

In addition to using eucalyptus candles, establishing other healthy sleep habits can promote better rest at night. The CDC recommends keeping a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine.

Establishing a relaxing bedtime routine signals to your body that it’s time to wind down for sleep. This may include activities like taking a warm bath, listening to soothing music, reading, or light stretches. Aim to keep your routine consistent on both weeknights and weekends.

Limiting screen time before bed can also improve sleep quality. The blue light emitted from screens like cell phones, tablets, and televisions can disrupt your body’s natural sleep-wake cycles. Avoid screens for at least 30 minutes before bedtime. Consider setting your devices to night-mode to reduce blue light exposure.

Keeping your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet at night sets the stage for more restful sleep. Use blackout curtains or an eye mask to block outside light. Keep the thermostat set to around 65°F for optimal sleep temperature. Use a fan, white noise machine, or earplugs to limit disturbing sounds.

With these adjustments and a consistent nightly routine, falling asleep and staying asleep through the night may become easier.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you have chronic insomnia that persists for more than 3-4 weeks, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. Chronic insomnia can have negative effects on your health, mood, productivity, and quality of life. Seeing a doctor can help identify any underlying medical conditions that may be disrupting your sleep.

Some signs that indicate it’s time to see a medical professional include:

  • Difficulty falling or staying asleep most nights for over a month
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness that interferes with work, school, or relationships
  • Not feeling rested after a full night’s sleep
  • Inability to function properly during the day due to lack of sleep

Certain medical conditions like asthma, depression, chronic pain, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can make it harder to sleep. A doctor can diagnose and treat any underlying condition to help restore healthy sleep patterns.

They may refer you to a sleep specialist like a neurologist or pulmonologist for further evaluation. A sleep study in a lab may be needed to identify issues like sleep apnea. Based on the cause, doctors can recommend tailored treatments like CPAP machines for apnea or cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia.

Medications may also be prescribed on a short-term basis to help reset the sleep cycle. However, it’s best to use medications only as a last resort under medical guidance.

Seeing a doctor promptly can help you get to the root of your sleeping struggles and find effective solutions. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if insomnia persists and affects your daily functioning.

Conclusion

Eucalyptus candles can be an effective way to promote relaxation and sleep due to the calming and soothing aromatic properties of eucalyptus essential oil. Studies show that eucalyptus oil enhances sleep by lowering blood pressure and reducing anxiety. The sharp, menthol scent of eucalyptus also helps open up airways, which can alleviate sleep apnea and make breathing easier.

However, eucalyptus candles are not a cure-all solution for insomnia or other sleep disorders. They work best when paired with other healthy sleep habits like keeping a consistent sleep schedule, limiting blue light exposure before bed, exercising during the day, and managing stress. For chronic sleep problems, it’s important to speak to a doctor.

Overall, lighting a eucalyptus candle before bedtime can be an accessible and pleasant aromatherapy addition to a bedtime routine. But the candles should complement, not replace, the fundamentals of sleep hygiene. By using eucalyptus candles strategically along with other lifestyle changes, many people find they can enhance their quality of sleep.

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