Herbal Sleep Aids and Herbs for Insomnia

Natural sleep aids, or herbal sleep aids, are quickly becoming a popular choice for treating insomnia naturally. In more recent years, studies have shown that some herbs and certain combinations of natural herbs can act as natural sleep aids, and can eliminate the need for taking synthetic medication, which can often come with many bothersome side effects.

With herbal sleep aids, it is possible to achieved the same calming effects you would get with prescription drugs, however, without the possibility of the harmful side effects.

If you struggle with insomnia, it is important to view insomnia herbal remedies as part of a holistic approach to treating and managing your condition. Herbs to help you sleep are only a part of the overall treatment. The use of nutrition, herbal remedies, and finding and addressing the underlying cause of the condition with your health care practitioner, will lead to better health, both physically and mentally.

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Popular Natural Herbs for Insomnia

Kava kava (Piper methysticum)
Kava kava is often used as a herbal insomnia remedy. This particular herb is extremely popular throughout the South Seas, and is quickly growing in popularity throughout the United States. When used as natural sleep aids, kava kava can impart a natural calm feeling, as it helps relax the body, as well as enhance dreaming. This herb for insomnia is also often recommended for chronic fatigue. Long term use should be avoided due to the possibility of liver damage.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
This is another herb that has been used for a long time as a herbal sleep aid. Valerian is the most popular herb for insomnia and it is is the natural source of Valium. It eases nervous tension, muscle tension and anxiety. It can be used as an occasional treatment for restlessness, but may be most beneficial for insomnia treatment over the long term. It works well in combination with other sedative herbs. Valerian root does not have the harsh side effects of many pharmaceutical treatments, like Valium, but in high doses this herb can cause nausea, headaches, dizziness, weakened heartbeat and even paralysis. Taken in recommended dosages it is considered safe. Due to the tonic and relaxant effect it should not be taken when driving or when reactions and mental acuity are needed. It should not be combined with pharmaceutical medicines that have similar effects.

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Chamomile has been used for centuries as a herbal sleep aid. It is a very gentle herb and is considered safe both for adults and children. As a herb for insomnia is most often drunk as a tea, which has a mild, pleasant flavor. It has a mild soothing effect which aids sleep and reduces restlessness. It also has a positive effect on digestion. The active ingredients in chamomile include a volatile oil and a falconoid, apigenin, with other components helping as well. Science has not yet determined the exact mechanism by which this herb aids sleep. Chamomile is a very mild herb and does not lead to dependency. It has not been shown to have any side effects. Individuals with allergies to plants such as ragweed or daisies may have a reaction to this herb. It may increase the effects of other sleep aids and should be used with caution when combined with other drug therapies.

Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata)
This herb, used by the Aztecs as a sedative, has a calming, sleep inducing effect. This herb is commonly found in the list of herbs to help you sleep. This is a gentle, non habit-forming herbal sleep aid. This is a very safe herb and has been used by both adults and children to counter the effects of stress and tension. It helps relax the mind and body to induce restful sleep. The active ingredient, harmine, and related compounds help inhibit the breakdown of serotonin. This herb can be taken as a tea, tincture or as capsules. The only noted side effect of this herb is sleepiness, which in this use is a very positive effect.

California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
Another natural herb commonly used as a herbal insomnia remedy. California poppy can be found in many herbal sleep aids sold in the United States today. This natural herb can help promote sleep, relaxation and ease mild anxiety. Because of this herb's mild sedative properties, it is also safe to give to children who have trouble sleeping.

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
Traditionally used for restless leg syndrome and other causes of insomnia. Skullcap reliefs nervous tension and renews the central nervous system.

Hops (Humulus lupulus)
This common flavoring for beer also has a calming, sedative effect. It is a nervous tonic and helps relieve pain, as well. It can be taken in tea or tincture form. Pillows are sometime made of hops to help induce relaxation and restful sleep. This herb should be avoided by individuals who have depressions due to its depressant effect.

Other Natural Remedies and Supplements for Insomnia Relief

Nutrition, exercise, and supplementation all have effects on insomnia. Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the body at night that helps regulate the sleep cycle. Supplementation of melatonin can help regulate the sleep cycle, especially for those suffering jet-lag, odd sleep/wake cycles, or in areas with light/dark cycles that affect sleep.

Tryptophan is another natural substance, an amino acid in this case, that helps improve sleep. It is a pre-cursor to serotonin. Low serotonin levels lead to irritability, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping. Tryptophan can be increased by eating foods such as; turkey, cottage cheese, peanuts, soy, milk, and brown rice.

Using any supplement, herbal, hormonal, or mineral, should be under the direction of a health care practitioner. Insomnia may have many causes and the underlying effects must be addressed to truly affect this condition.

"Health is not simply the absence of sickness !"
Hannah Green

May You Grow and Prosper.

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