Thought for the Month

 

Cheryl Asher - Professional and Licensed Masseusse

 

LAVENDAR AROMA SHOWN TO REDUCE STRESS AND CRYING AND ENHANCE SLEEP IN INFANTS

Lavender aroma was found to reduce stress and crying and enhance sleep in very young infants, according to a recent study.

In the study 30 women were broken down into groups: (1) lavender bath oil group and (2) a non-aroma bath oil group.  The groups were videotaped bathing their infants using either the scented or unscented bath oil.

Data collected regarding the infants sleeping behaviors showed the infants in group (1) were in deep sleep a greater percentage of the time than those in group (2).  Group (1) also tended to spend less time crying post-bath and prior to sleep onset as compared to group (2).  “These data suggest that infants with irritability and sleep problems could be calmed by this aroma and may experience more restful sleep” say the studies authors.

 

Massage Magazine: July 2008
Article: Research:  Lavender Aroma Shown to Reduce Stress and Crying and Enhance Sleep in Infants
Multiple Authors
Originally published in Early Human Development (2007)