7 Herbal Remedies For Sleeplessness

The dawn is the most beautiful part of the day; only if it is followed by a night of fine, peaceful sleep. Sleep is a biological function that is essential for healthy functioning of the body. Sleep is a natural revitalizing process, in which our body prepares itself to meet the demands of the following day. Experts recommend seven to nine hours of undisturbed sleep every day, for adults.Sleeplessness is characterized by failed attempts to sleep, waking up at wee hours of night and inability to sleep further on a regular basis.Sleeplessness or insomnia has adverse effects on your body. Continuous loss of sleep can affect your concentration and memory and causes lethargy the entire day. Insomnia also affects your immune system and reduces your body’s capability to fight diseases.

Natural Herbs For Sleeplessness

There are several sleep medications available commercially. Herbs are a better alternative because they are not addictive and they do not leave you feeling sluggish the following day. Apart from sleep induction, herbs also promote muscle relaxation. Herbs that effectively promote sleep are as follows.

Hops

Hops, the female flowers of the species Humulus lupulus are used in beer production. Hops extract is also used to treat anxiety related disorders. This herb can calm the nerves effectively.This property makes it an excellent remedy for nervousness and restlessness apart from insomnia. Tea extracts of this herb when consumed twice or thrice daily can induce sleep. For herb extracts or capsules, 120mg is the recommended dosage.

Passion Flower

This is an excellent sedative and even large doses of this herb can be consumed. It is a common ingredient of many sedative preparations. This herb can relieve mental tension and nervous fatigue and is therefore used to treat insomnia caused due to these factors. Three cups of this herbal tea can promote undisturbed sleep.

Chamomile

Chamomile is a very common herb used to treat insomnia in children and adults. In children, it is used to treat insomnia accompanied by restlessness and irritability.Two to three cups of this herbal tea is recommended for sound sleep. Chamomile herbal oil is available in natural stores. This oil can be added to the bath, used as massage oil or can simple be inhaled for best results.

Valerian

Valerian is the most used herb for insomnia. Several studies show the effectiveness of this herb. Valerian alters the levels of GABA (gamma amino butyric acid), a neurotransmitter, thereby calming the mind and inducing sleep.Valerian subsequently reduces sleep abeyance and midnight waking.  One cup of this herbal tea per day can work wonders on your sleep cycle. It is commonly used in combination with other herbs like passion flower, hops and California poppy.

Kava Kava

Kava is an excellent relaxant and it a good remedy for insomnia caused due to anxiety.It calms the mind, relaxes your body and eases fatigue. One cup of this herbal tea a day is recommended for undisturbed sleep.

California Poppy

This herb has mild analgesic properties and it is an excellent sleep promoter. It is considered safe for children as it is very mild. Certain clinical studies prove the effectiveness of this herb in improving sleep quality and sleep dormancy. Tea brewed from this herb is a mild sedative. For stronger action, herbal tincture can be used.

Wild Lettuce

This is another mild herb that is considered safe for children.The calming effect of this herb makes it an excellent choice to cure restlessness, apart from insomnia. A few drops of wild lettuce herbal tincture, twice a day can promote sleep.Herbalists suggest a combination of these herbs for excellent results. Herbal pillows are also considered as good remedies. Consult with an expert before consumption of these herbs to assure safety.