Insomnia Revealed

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Sleeping tablets are only good up to a certain point. The time will come when your body becomes immune to its effects. Those would be times a person might be in dire need of natural remedies for insomnia. On the other hand, some people may simply prefer natural remedies for insomnia. Natural remedies for insomnia don’t have as much side effects as sleeping tablets. They have mild to strong sedative effects and are actually also good for the nerves. Most of these are natural herbs taken as tea. Capsules if one isn’t into drinking tea. Some can also be applied as oil tinctures for the skin, baths and massages. Certainly, there are other natural cures for insomnia aside from these. Natural remedies and getting rid of bad sleeping habits leads to a good night’s sleep.

Herbal tea

Chamomile (Athemis nobilis) is a time-honored sedative which can be used by adults and children alike.

Dose: Tea, 1 cup 2-3 times a day.

Hops (Humulus lupulus) have been used by eclectic physicians in the 1900’s as a sedative for insomnia due to worry or nerve weakness.

Dose: Tea, 1 cup 2-3 times a day.

To get an over-all view of Insomnia, click this image to go to our Insomnia Overview page. It gives a clear view of the causes, effects, and treatments for insomnia.

Lavender (Lavandula officinalis) is known to be a gentle strengthening tonic for the nervous system.

Dose: Tea, 1 cup 2-3 times a day.

Passion flower (Passiflora incarnate) is considered an important natural remedy for insomnia. Especially if the insomnia is caused by mental worry, stress or nervous exhaustion. In England, it is an ingredient used in forty different commonly sold sedative preparations. It is a superb sedative with no side effects even if taken in large doses.

Dose: Tea, 1 cup 3 times a day.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is used extensively in the US as a sedative against insomnia, nervousness, and restlessness. It’s recommended for insomniacs who have a hard time falling asleep because it shortens sleep latency. It also reduces night awakening. It is an excellent sedative that doesn’t have the negative side effects of Valium and other synthetic sedatives. It works well combined with other sedative herbs.

Dose: Tea, 1 cup as needed.

To get an over-all view of Insomnia, click this image to go to our Insomnia Overview page. It gives a clear view of the causes, effects, and treatments for insomnia.

California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) is a mild sedative and sleep-promoting herb. It can help a person sleep, relax, and ease mild anxiety. It has been shown to improve both sleep latency and quality.

Dose: Tea, 1 cup 2-3 times a day.

Kava kava (Piper methysticum) is popular throughout the South Seas and is the national drink of Fiji. It gives a calm feeling and sometimes enhances communication and dreaming. This herb is often used for insomnia and fatigue.

Dose: Tea, 1 cup 2-3 times a day.

Calming tea blend can be made with the following herbs.

• Linden flowers (1 part)
• Hawthorn flowers and leaves (1 part)
• Chamomile (2 parts)
• Catnip (1 part)
• Lemon balm (1 part)
• Wintergreen (1 part)
• Stevia herb (1/8 part)

Bedtime tea can also be a mix of the following herbs.

• Valerian (3 parts)
• Linden (2 parts)
• Kava kava (2 parts)
• Chamomile (2 parts)
• Catnip (1 part)

For either concoction, blend the loose herbs. Place in a far for future use. Make sure to store in a cool place out of direct sunlight. Use 1 teaspoon or cup to make a tea. Add the herbs to boiled water and cover. Let it steep for 20 minutes, strain and store in the refrigerator. The concoction will be good for 3 days. Pour in 1 cup, warm it, and drink several times daily or before bedtime as needed.

To get an over-all view of Insomnia, click this image to go to our Insomnia Overview page. It gives a clear view of the causes, effects, and treatments for insomnia.

Aromatherapy

The herbs listed above that can be taken as tea can also be applied on the skin as tincture. 2-3 times a day if one isn’t particularly a tea person. Both chamomile and lavender can also be added to bath water or used in oil for a massage.

Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa) is a mild sedative and nervine used for restlessness and insomnia. It is good for both children and adults.

Dose: Tincture, 2-3 drops 3-4 times a day.

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an herb that has a long history dating back to ancient Greek era. Scientific studies show that it can help relieve chronic insomnia and mild depression. This herb can sensitize the skin to sunlight. When used as a tincture and taken in full dose, avoid direct skin exposure to sunlight.

Dose: Tincture, ½ to 1 teaspoon 2-3 times a day. Powder extract, 1-2 tablets or capsules 2-3 times a day. Full therapeutic effect develops in 2-3 weeks. However, if you experience light sensitivity or other unpleasant symptoms reduce or discontinue. Consult a qualified herbalist.

Melatonin

Melatonin is actually a human hormone that helps regulate the sleep cycle (circadian rhythm). It is becoming extremely popular as a supplement to promote sound sleep. Particularly for people who travel between time zones or work odd hours. People have mixed feedback however, some find real benefit and others feel no effect. If the body’s melatonin level becomes too high, a person can experience increased insomnia and nervousness. Melatonin is usually prescribed for people age 55 and up. Some other side-effects are irritability, dizziness, migraines, constipation, stomach pain and weight gain.

Here are some sleep related sites that will be of interest to you. Thanks for visiting our Insomnia website.

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