How Using Essential Oils Might Help Treat Sleep Apnea

Many people don’t even realize they have sleep apnea it first, but once you’ve found out that you’re suffering from this disorder, you’ll naturally want to find ways to treat it. Obviously, you should talk to a sleep apnea expert about oral appliance therapy and other options, but you may also be wondering if there are any home remedies you can take advantage of. Fortunately, there is in the form of a number of essential oils.

What are Essential Oils?

An essential oil is a compound that has been extracted from a plant. These compounds capture the scent of the plant they were taken from, which is why they’re often used for aromatherapy. Essential oils can be inhaled, or they may be used topically once diluted. Current research shows that the chemical compounds in essential oils can have a variety of benefits. For one thing, they can help stimulate the part of the brain that’s responsible for controlling emotions and behaviors.

How Can Essential Oils Help Treat Sleep Apnea

Specific essential oils can be used to address the symptoms of sleep apnea and other sleep disorders. Below are some examples of such oils and their effects when it comes to addressing sleep apnea:

• Lavender Oil: Lavender is a very popular essential oil that helps calm and soothe the body. It’s known to help clear the airways in the throat and sinuses, making it easier for you to breathe. It can also help treat any anxiety or depression that might have developed as a side effect of sleep apnea.
• Peppermint Oil: Sometimes sleep apnea is linked to congestion. Peppermint helps treat irritation of the nasal passages, thus reducing the effects of such congestion.
• Roman Chamomile Oil: People with central sleep apnea (a form of sleep apnea where the brain isn’t sending the proper signals to the body to make sure it keeps breathing while you’re asleep) might benefit from using roman chamomile oil, which can help with problems in the nervous system.
• Thyme Oil: Thyme oil is often used to treat respiratory infections and conditions. Since it helps clear the airway, it’s especially useful for treating obstructive sleep apnea (the more common form of sleep apnea that occurs when the airway is blocked).
• Lemon Oil: Sleep apnea is often accompanied by loud snoring. Some studies indicate that using lemon oil can cut down the frequency and intensity of snoring.

These are just a few examples of essential oils you might use to help with sleep apnea. A sleep expert might be able to suggest a few others as well. Remember that while using these oils is no substitute for professional treatment, they can still significantly improve your quality of life while you’re working to overcome your symptoms and start enjoying restful nights again.

About the Author

Dr. Stephen Dean earned his doctorate at the Medical University of South Carolina, and he has pursued continuing education at prestigious institutions such as the Dawson Academy and the Pankey Institute. He is extremely passionate about treating sleep apnea and is currently a member of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. If you have sleep apnea and want to ask Dr. Dean about possible treatment options, you can schedule an appointment at the Covington Sleep Center by visiting his website or calling  (770) 710-5268.