If your child struggles to fall asleep or relax at bedtime, you’re not alone. Many families are turning to natural solutions like DoTERRA’s Lavender Peace and Serenity Softgels to support better sleep. But what makes these products work so well? The answer lies in their powerful plant chemistry — and the way essential oils interact with the brain and body.
How Aromatherapy Affects the Brain
When your child inhales essential oils, tiny aromatic molecules travel through the nose to the limbic system — the emotional centre of the brain. This part of the brain regulates mood, memory, stress response, and sleep hormones like melatonin.
Research shows that certain plant compounds, including linalool and linalyl acetate found in lavender, can promote relaxation by enhancing the activity of GABA — the neurotransmitter responsible for calming the nervous system. When GABA levels rise, the body naturally shifts from alertness to rest.
Lavender Peace: A Calming Blend Designed for Rest
DoTERRA’s Lavender Peace (known as Serenity in some regions) is a thoughtfully balanced blend of essential oils designed to create a sense of calm and peace. Each ingredient contributes unique benefits to the nervous system and sleep quality.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender’s key chemical constituents, linalool and linalyl acetate, are scientifically linked to reducing anxiety and improving sleep. Studies show they help lower heart rate, decrease blood pressure, and reduce cortisol levels — the stress hormone that can keep children alert at bedtime.
Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana)
Contains calming sesquiterpenes that influence the emotional centres of the brain, grounding the mind and promoting relaxation.
Ho Wood and Vetiver
Rich in linalool and vetiverol, these compounds have sedative and soothing effects that quiet racing thoughts and calm the nervous system.
Roman Chamomile and Ylang Ylang
These oils are known for their ability to balance emotions, release tension, and reduce irritability — making it easier for kids to settle into sleep.
Sandalwood and Marjoram
Provide emotional warmth and tranquillity, traditionally used to ease overthinking and restlessness before bedtime.
When diffused or applied topically (to the back of the neck, chest, or wrists), Lavender Peace helps create a peaceful sensory environment that signals to the brain it’s time to wind down.
Serenity Softgels: Inner Calm for Deeper Rest
For older children or adults, DoTERRA Serenity Softgels provide internal support to complement the external calming effects of essential oils. These softgels combine essential oil and herbal extracts in a gentle, natural formula designed to promote sleep and relaxation.
Each softgel includes:
Lavender essential oil
Promotes restful sleep and relaxation by interacting with the GABA system in the brain.
Valerian root extract
Valerian’s active compounds increase GABA activity and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. It has been studied for its ability to enhance deep sleep without causing grogginess.
L-theanine (from green tea)
Encourages alpha brain waves, which are associated with relaxation and mental calm. It also helps quiet the mind before sleep.
Passionflower extract
Supports the nervous system and reduces anxiety naturally, complementing the effects of valerian and lavender.
Together, these ingredients calm both the body and mind, creating a smooth transition from wakefulness to sleep.
The Chemistry Behind Calm
Lavender Peace and Serenity Softgels work because of the synergy between their plant-based compounds. Linalool, linalyl acetate, valerenic acid, and L-theanine all act on the brain’s calming pathways, helping to regulate the sleep-wake cycle and reduce overactivity in the nervous system.
Scientific studies show these compounds help:
- Lower stress hormones (like cortisol)
- Slow heart rate and breathing
- Encourage the release of serotonin and melatonin
- Promote deep, restorative sleep without dependence
Creating a Calming Bedtime Routine
To make the most of these products, consistency is key. Try the following steps:
- Diffuse Lavender Peace 30 minutes before bedtime to create a calm environment
- Apply the Lavender Peace stick or diluted oil blend to your child’s chest, back, or feet
- For older children or parents, take a Serenity Softgel before bed to support relaxation from within
- Pair with quiet breathing, gentle music, or story time to anchor the scent with the feeling of rest
This sensory association helps the brain learn that the scent of Lavender Peace means it’s time to unwind and sleep.
A Natural Way to Support Deep, Restful Sleep
By combining traditional herbal wisdom with modern scientific understanding, DoTERRA’s Lavender Peace and Serenity Softgels offer a safe and effective way to help children and adults relax and sleep well.
Explore these natural solutions and find what works best for your family here:
https://annaware.com.au/essentialoils/