Herbs for insomnia

Overall information on Sleeping Problems

Sleeping is a process that revitalizes and heals the human body. Insomnia is a condition in which a person cannot have a restful, healthful sleep. Chronic insomnia is one of the most prevalent sleeping disorders. Insomnia is nowadays considered as a disease and it can be caused by numerous different factors such as environment, emotional disorders, age, genetic components and physical imbalances.

Insomnia can sometimes be triggered by an imbalance in the neurotransmitters which are responsible for transferring nerve impulses between the nerve cells. Sometimes the condition can be improved by ingesting foods that are rich in tryptophan such as quinoa, St. John’s wort, soy products and spirulina. Insomnia can be treated using a holistic treatment which involves numerous different methods and techniques such as hypnosis, lifestyle changes, herbal medicine, relaxation, diet, vitamin supplements, exercises, guided imagery, mineral supplements, massage therapy, acupuncture, homeopathy, improved sleep hygiene, and meditation.

A person needs to maintain a regular sleeping schedule in order to keep a steady and balanced sleep hygiene. Exercises can be of great help. Some people may even require sound and light insulation and they could also benefit from using eye masks and ear plugs. Excessive heat in the bedroom is not recommended. It is also wise to avoid drinking any type of beverage before bedtime.

Caffeine, alcohol and tobacco should also be avoided because they have a bad influence on sleep. Numerous relaxation techniques can also be of great help in preparing the body and the mind for sleep.

Herbal Remedies

Most herbal remedies that are used for the treatment of insomnia are best taken half an hour before bedtime. The most common herbal remedy that can be used for the prevention and treatment of insomnia is chamomile.

Its botanical name is anthemis nobilis. It has been used in numerous cultures throughout the centuries for the treatment of numerous different medical conditions due to its very potent sedative properties. It is very efficient in treating insomnia, irritability and restlessness.

It can be consumed as a tea, but it can also be used as an inhalant. Diluted chamomile can be used to make massage oil as well. Hops can be used for the treatment of insomnia, nervousness, restlessness and insomnia due to its remarkable sedative properties. It can be consumed as a tea, tincture or in the form of pills.

Lavender has potent tonic properties and is very efficient in treating insomnia. It can be consumed as a tea, it can be inhaled or massaged into the skin. Other herbal remedies that can be used for the prevention and treatment of insomnia include passion flower, valerian and wild lettuce.