If you’re suffering from insomnia but you’re afraid of taking medications, then why don’t you try herbal remedies for sleep. It is best to first try natural insomnia remedies before jumping into stronger “hypnotic” type of drugs.  Although they are not completely harmless and there is only little research on their effectiveness, there are still a number of advantages in taking herbal remedies. They have fewer side effects and is non-habit forming unlike prescribed strong medications. Some are combined with other ingredients that give a calming effect that helps you sleep better.  Many people have reported that certain herbal meds have help improve sleep. Let’s look up and study five herbal sleep remedies.

Valerian

Valerian has been proven to be a very effective herbal sleep remedy. It is relaxing and contains sleep-inducing properties. Moreover, it is also an antihypertensive, calms digestion and relieves tension and anxiety. Valerian can provide better sleep to those who are insomniac and irregular sleepers. Eighty nine percent of valerian users have reported improved sleep and relief from insomnia. However, valerian is considered a depressant to the central nervous system. It is strongly advised not to take it every night and not to exceed the recommended dosage. Valerian is normally taken in tea form.

Passion Flower

Passion flower is a sedative and analgesic herb that has been already used centuries ago. It contains “harmin,” a property that can induce a dreamy state and mild euphoria.  Not only does it induce sleep and have a calming effect, but passion flower can also relieve cramps, muscular spasms, hysteria, and even asthma. A tincture of 30 to 60 drops is used before going to bed.

Chamonile

Chamonile is a relaxing and calming herb that can also ease digestion, relieve pain and can assist in wound healing. It can be taken orally or use in bath infusions. On the contrary, chamomile can also be allergic to some people and it is strongly advised against pregnant women.

Hops

This herbal sleep remedy is good for general insomnia and for relieving restlessness, tension, indigestion or headaches. Besides being a sleep-inducing herb, it is also an antiseptic. Hops can be mixed with chamomile tea in equal parts.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s wort is also considered a sedative and pain-relieving herb. It is also used to treat depression, anxiety, insomnia and of course improve the quality of sleep. You can use it as a tea drink or for your bath infusions. But on a side note, prolonged use of St. John’s Wort increases sensitivity to sunlight and it should not be taken with certain anti-depressant medications such as MAO inhibitors.

Herbal sleep remedies are indeed becoming popular as they are non-addictive and they are proven to promote improved sleep. It is also recommended to take them in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular sleep. In that way, it can help you resume to a regular sleeping pattern that will greatly benefit you.

Related posts:

1. Herbal Sleep Remedies: Sleeping better without Using Prescription Drugs
2. What are the Herbal Remedies for Insomnia?
3. Top Liquid Sleep Products: How to Induce Liquid Sleeping
4. Are there Any Cures for Insomnia?
5. Several Catarrh Remedies that might Give Relief