Sleep is essential to health and well-being, yet if you’re struggling with insomnia it can be hard to know where to turn for help. Here’s our guide on insomnia treatments you might try.
There is an array of natural sleep aids available today, so choosing one may not be hard. Continue reading to gain more knowledge on popular options and their workings.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil is an acclaimed solution to help calm and relax the body, treat insomnia and manage various medical conditions.
This soothing oil has been demonstrated to significantly decrease stress levels and support immunity by lowering cortisol, a hormone which contributes to inflammation. Furthermore, it may even help enhance mood for those suffering depression.
Studies have demonstrated its ability to promote slow-wave sleep, which is essential for a restful night’s rest. Furthermore, lavender oil may also assist with various skin issues including eczema and ageing.
To use lavender as a natural sleep aid, diffuse its oil or place a few drops on cotton wool balls and inhale the aroma. You could also try adding lavender drops to a bath before bedtime, or combine with Roman Chamomile and Magnesium Oil for an soothing blend that will help you rest easy and wake up feeling rested and revitalized!
Valerian root
Valerian root is an effective natural sleep aid which can help speed up the time it takes you to fall asleep faster, as well as helping reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
This herb can be found in various forms such as tincture, capsules or tea and can be purchased at most pharmacies and grocery stores.
Used since centuries to relieve headaches, stomach cramps and insomnia. An natural anti-anxiety agent that may also aid depression treatment as well as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or menopause symptoms.
Valerian root’s soothing effects come from its ability to increase GABA levels in the brain and positively influence serotonin receptors.
Though valerian root is generally safe, some individuals may experience side effects like dizziness and stomach upset when taking supplements from valerian. Also, certain medications may interact with it and it’s wise to consult your physician prior to taking any dietary supplements for pregnancy or breastfeeding purposes.
Chamomile
Chamomile is an effective natural sleep aid, designed to relax and comfort you for improved restful slumber. Chamomile contains an active compound known as apigenin which binds with GABA receptors in your brain to induce feelings of relaxation and restful slumber.
Chamomile extract or drinking chamomile tea can help promote relaxation and restful sleep, making it a popular solution for people suffering from insomnia or other sleep-related disorders, while simultaneously alleviating anxiety.
Although chamomile is generally safe, it may cause side effects in certain people if you have known allergies to related plants such as ragweed, daisy daisies chrysanthemums or marigolds.
Chamomile may interact with drugs that thin the blood (anticoagulants, antiplatelets and blood pressure medications). If you are taking one or more of these medications, speak to your health care provider prior to beginning chamomile supplementation – give them an accurate picture of everything you are taking and how it affects your overall wellbeing.
Hops
Hops may conjure images of beer, but its flowers (Humulus lupulus) have long been used medicinally as an aid to sleep. Hops is believed to act as a mild sedative and has even been found to improve quality sleep for some.
Hops’ bitter flavor lends it an ideal addition to herbal teas and tinctures, while studies indicate it can aid with improving sleep-wake cycles by increasing natural melatonin production in the body.
However, alcohol can reduce your quality of sleep and you should choose non-alcoholic sources of hops if you wish to take advantage of their sleep-inducing properties.
Study participants suffering from insomnia found relief with dry hops supplements due to its calming effects and their ability to inhibit GABA production – essential hormone for deep sleep.