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The story of essential oils intertwines deeply with the history of human civilization. Around 1200 BCE in ancient Mesopotamia, Tapputi-Belatekallim, widely regarded as the world’s first recorded chemist, left her mark on the world via two known cuneiform tablets detailing her recipes and procedures. Employed as a perfumer in the Royal Palace of Babylon, Tapputi-Belatekallim harnessed the natural essences of plants, creating aromatic blends by moonlight.

In the scent formulas on the clay tablets, information such as how Tapputi made his transactions in the full moon and how he presented it to the stars one by one. In other words, it is written not only in the formula but also in the way the fragrance is made. How he distilled it, how he used fire and water, how he rested it, how he brewed it, and how he filtered it, are included in the tablet, down to the smallest detail.”

Fragrance Expert Bihter Türkan Ergül
The 3,200-year-old perfume of Tapputi, the first female chemist in history, came to life again – Arkeonews

Today, the use of essential oils for relaxation is supported by both their historical significance and modern scientific research. When inhaled, the aroma molecules of these oils travel to the olfactory nerves and impact the brain’s limbic system, influencing emotions and stress levels.

Or, more specifically:

• Volatile Nature: Aroma molecules are volatile, meaning they evaporate quickly at room temperature. This property allows them to disperse into the air, making them detectable by our sense of smell.
• Chemical Composition: Essential oils are complex mixtures of many different chemical compounds. Each compound contributes to the oil’s unique aroma. These compounds can include terpenes, esters, alcohols, aldehydes, and ketones, each with distinct scents and properties.
• Interaction with Olfactory System: When you inhale an essential oil, the aroma molecules enter your nostrils and dissolve in the mucus lining of the olfactory epithelium, a tissue in the nasal cavity. Here, they stimulate the olfactory receptors, which are specialized sensory cells.
• Signal to the Brain: Once the olfactory receptors detect the aroma molecules, they send signals to the brain, specifically to the olfactory bulb, which then relays the signals to other brain areas, including the limbic system.
• Effects on the Limbic System: The limbic system, a group of structures in the brain, deals with emotions, memories, and arousal (stimulation). The interaction with aroma molecules can trigger various responses in this system, influencing mood, emotion, and even physiological responses like heart rate and stress levels.

Scientific studies reinforce this, demonstrating how oils like Lavender can reduce anxiety ^[2] or how inhaling Ylang Ylang can reduce blood pressure ^[3] and heart rate, indicators of stress. It’s a fascinating interplay where nature’s complexity meets our body’s intricate systems, leading to a state of natural balance and peace.

Sleep Resupply Ingredients

The Essential Oils for Relaxation We Use

The harmony of a fragrance blend is as crucial as the individual scents themselves. While all of the essential oils we use can claim to have sedative qualities, the oils in each blend are meticulously chosen for their synergistic properties. This selection process considers the oils’ roles as top, middle, or base notes, each contributing uniquely to the overall sensory experience.

Top notes are the initial, often lighter and more volatile scents that greet your senses. They are the first impression of a blend, evoking an immediate and refreshing experience. Middle notes, also known as heart notes, form the core of the fragrance. They emerge just as the top notes dissipate, bringing balance and depth. Base notes are the foundation of the blend. They unfold slowly, providing a lasting, grounding presence that anchors the blend.

The oils we’ve selected to work with offer individual benefits for relaxation but, when combined, create a tapestry of scents that enhance and complement each other. The following profiles delve into the unique characteristics of each essential oil that you’ll find in the Sleep Resupply products, exploring how their notes contribute to the symphony of a balanced blend for bedtime.

How to Use Essential Oils Safely

While essential oils offer a plethora of benefits for relaxation and wellbeing, it’s crucial to use them safely and responsibly. Our blends are carefully diluted for your safety, but if you plan to mix something up yourself, please be advised on the following key guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience with essential oils:

• Dilution is Key: Essential oils are highly concentrated and should never be applied directly to the skin without dilution. Use a carrier oil, like coconut, almond, or jojoba oil, to dilute the essential oils before topical application. A general guideline is to maintain a dilution rate of 1-2% for adults, which translates to about 6-12 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.
• Patch Test for Allergies: Before using a new essential oil, do a patch test. Apply a small amount of the diluted oil to a patch of skin and wait for 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions.
• Avoid Sensitive Areas: Avoid applying oils to sensitive areas like the eyes, ears, and mucous membranes.
• Photosensitivity: Some oils, particularly citrus oils like Bergamot and Sweet Orange, can cause photosensitivity, making the skin more prone to sunburn. Be cautious of sun exposure after applying these oils.
• Quality Matters: Invest in high-quality, pure essential oils. Synthetic or adulterated oils can contain harmful ingredients and won’t provide the therapeutic benefits of pure oils.
• Respect Individual Health Conditions: Certain oils should be avoided or used with caution if you have specific health conditions, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils in these circumstances.
• Aromatherapy for Children and Pets: Children and pets are more sensitive to essential oils. Use oils with caution and in lower concentrations around them. Some oils may be toxic to pets, so it’s important to do your research before using them in your home.

By adhering to these safety guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of essential oils with peace of mind, ensuring that your journey into aromatherapy is both blissful and beneficial.

DIY Recipes

Creating your own essential oil blends can be a rewarding and therapeutic experience. Here are a couple of easy-to-make relaxation blends using the oils we’ve profiled. Remember to always dilute these blends with a carrier oil before topical use or use them in a diffuser. Or, visit our shop to experience our blends that feature all organic oils.

Methods of Using Essential Oils for Relaxation

The versatility of essential oils allows for numerous methods of application, each offering a unique path to relaxation and tranquility. Here’s how you can incorporate these fragrant oils into your relaxation routine:

• Diffusion: Using an essential oil diffuser is one of the most popular methods for enjoying the aromatic benefits of these oils. Just add a few drops of your chosen oil to the diffuser with water, and it will disperse the scent throughout your space, creating a calming atmosphere.
• Topical Application: Essential oils can be applied to the skin when diluted with a carrier oil. This method is ideal for a more targeted approach, such as massaging a tension-relieving blend onto sore muscles or applying a calming oil blend to pulse points before bedtime.
• Aromatic Baths: Add a few drops of essential oil to your bathwater, preferably mixed with a dispersing agent like Epsom salt or a carrier oil. This method combines the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy with the relaxing properties of a warm bath.
• Inhalation: Simply inhaling the aroma of an essential oil can have immediate calming effects. You can use a personal inhaler or even inhale directly from the bottle. Another method is to add a drop or two to a handkerchief or cotton ball and breathe in the scent.
• Aromatherapy Jewelry: Wearing aromatherapy jewelry, such as necklaces or bracelets with absorbent materials, allows you to enjoy the benefits of essential oils on the go. Just add a drop of oil to the jewelry, and the scent will accompany you throughout the day.
• Room Sprays: Create a DIY room spray by mixing essential oils with water and a little bit of alcohol in a spray bottle. Use this to refresh your living space, linens, or pillows, infusing them with a relaxing aroma.

Each of these methods offers a unique way to experience the soothing benefits of essential oils. Whether you’re seeking a moment of calm in a busy day or preparing your mind and body for a restful night’s sleep, there’s an application method to suit your needs and preferences.

Conclusion: Embracing the Serenity of Essential Oils

As we’ve journeyed through the aromatic world of essential oils, we’ve uncovered the layers of their soothing essence, from the historical roots with Tapputi-Belatekallim to the modern-day application in our own homes. Each essential oil, with its unique top, middle, or base note, plays a crucial role in crafting a harmonious blend that resonates with our senses and soothes our spirits.

Remember, the key to enjoying the benefits of these oils lies in their safe and mindful use. Whether diffusing Sandalwood for its grounding aroma, applying a diluted blend of Lavender and Chamomile for a peaceful slumber, or simply inhaling the uplifting scent of Bergamot, the possibilities for relaxation and rejuvenation are endless.

We encourage you to embark on your own aromatic adventure, experimenting with the blends we’ve shared or creating your own. Let the natural harmony of these oils guide you to a place of calm, balance, and serenity in your daily life.

In the end, the world of essential oils is not just about fragrances; it’s about finding a natural, holistic way to enhance your well-being and reconnect with the ancient art of relaxation. Embrace these scents, explore their stories, and let them lead you to a peaceful haven in the midst of life’s hustle and bustle.

CITATIONS

[1] Leman Altuntaş, Arkeonews.net The 3,200-year-old perfume of Tapputi, the first female chemist in history, came to life again24 July 2022 July 24:

[2] Davide Donelli, Michele Antonelli, Caterina Bellinazzi, Gian Franco Gensini, Fabio Firenzuoli, Effects of lavender on anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis, Phytomedicine, Volume 65, 2019, 153099, ISSN 0944-7113, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2019.153099 (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0944711319303411)

[3] Hongratanaworakit T, Buchbauer G. Relaxing effect of ylang ylang oil on humans after transdermal absorption. Phytother Res. 2006 Sep;20(9):758-63. doi: 10.1002/ptr.1950. PMID: 16807875.