How can a smell help you sleep? That’s a question we’re often asked. People often dismiss the effectiveness of aromatherapy but there is actual science behind it.

When you inhale therapeutic aromas such as those in The Australian Sleep Co products, the smell receptors in your nose (the olfactory nerve) send a message to parts of the brain, in particular the hippocampus and amygdala. Similar to the way light sends a message to the brain via the eyes, the nose too is the entry point of a very sophisticated system.

When you inhale the aromas of our products, the brain receives a message that it’s time to decrease the production of cortisol (the stress hormone that keeps us alert and powering on) and trigger the release of melatonin (the sleep hormone).

You may use our products just to calm the mind and relax, or, by closing your eyes and focusing on slow, deep breaths through the nose, you can drift off to a peaceful sleep. Trust your body to know what to do.