Herbal Remedies for Insomnia

Natural remedies for insomnia

What are the best herbal remedies for insomnia? Herbs for insomnia have been used for centuries, if not longer.

Chamomile and valerian are well known natural cures of insomnia, but there are many others. Herbal remedies for insomnia act as relaxants and nerve tonics. Passion flower, vervain, hops, kava and oatstraw are other well known natural remedies for insomnia. Ginseng may be useful in helping the body adapt to stress.

Chamomile is a well-known sedative herb that can be used by people of any age. It is commonly used in Europe and South America as an insomnia remedy, for restlessness and irritability. Chamomile tea is available in food stores with large tea selections, and health food stores. Look for organic or natural brands that contain pure chamomile. Sweeten if preferred, but don’t overdo it, as sugar can act as a stimulant.

Valerian is used extensively by herbalists for its sedative properties. It is useful for people who find it hard to fall asleep and wake during the night. Valerian has no known side effects and works well in combination with other sedative herbs such as hops and passion flower. Valerian is available as a tea or in tablet form. It can take a little while to take effect, so take about an hour before bedtime.

Passion flower is an excellent sedative with no side effects even in large doses. Take as a tea before bedtime. Available as a tea and as a supplement.

Hops have been used since the early 1900s as a sedative for people experiencing insomnia due to worry or anxiety, and has a long history of use for restlessness, sleeplessness and anxiety. Available as a tea from health food stores.

Kava kava is Fiji’s national drink and popular throughout the Pacific. It relaxes the body and is often used for sleeplessness and fatigue. Can be taken as a tea.