Herbal remedies for insomnia are effective in both inducing and maintaining sleep and a natural remedy usually does not have the side effects associated with benzodiazepines and hallucinogenics (allopathic drugs) used for insomnia. Identifying the cause of insomnia is essential in treating the condition as other contributing factors like depression, anxiety, chronic conditions, use of stimulants or side effects from medication can cause insomnia.
A simple natural remedy for insomnia or sleepless ness usally involves the use of Valeriana officinalis (valerian root). Valerian was the source of the modern drug valium due to its effectiveness in inducing sleep. Used as a herbal tincture or in the powdered form in tablets and capsules, valerian root can be as effective as its modern counterpart, if used in the proper dosage without the associated side effects like drowsiness and a ‘muzzy feeling’ upon waking.
Another common remedy used for insomnia is Passiflora incarnata (passion flower) which is effective in cases of stress and anxiety associated with insomnia.
Other herbs that may be useful for inducing sleep and treating insomnia include :
- Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort) – insomnia in depression.
- Scutellaria laterifolia (Skull cap) – insomnia with anxiety and fear where there is repeated disturbances of sleep.
- Humulus lupulus (Hops) – insomnia associated with stress, hormonal conditions like insomnia in menopause.
A common home remedy for insomnia includes warm milk. It is believed that heating milk activates tryptophan, a protein that is known to be a ‘feel good’ food. Another home remedy involves the use of nutmeg. The active ingredients of nutmeg (Nux moschata) can cause drowsiness which may be useful in inducing sleep. Nutmeg has to be used in a high dose to have the desired effect but can cause gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea and stomach cramps in some cases.
Many natural, herbal and home remedies may be useful in assisting with insomnia but it if important not to use these natural ‘cures’ for insomnia with other medication and allopathic drugs as the side effects can be severe. Always consult with your medical doctor before starting any natural treatment for chronic insomnia.
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