Herbal Remedies For Getting Better Sleep
Most people who suffer from insomnia assume they have to take sleeping pills to help them get a good night’s rest. Although these pills are very popular and quite effective, they may also cause serious side effects that can only become apparent after some time.
They may also cause people to feel dizzy and tired upon waking up the next day. If you want to avoid these negative side effects, it makes sense to try natural remedies or a herbal treatment for insomnia.
Melatonin Supplements
Melatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body and that is what makes us sleepy during the night when we are not exposed to sunlight. This is why people who work during the night (night-shift) find it quite difficult to fall asleep during the day, even if they are completely tired after working the entire night.
Therefore, people who will benefit most from melatonin supplements are those on the late night shift and have no choice but to sleep at a time when their bodies are producing no melatonin.
Another practical use for this herbal insomnia supplement is used to help get over jet lag. If you have traveled halfway around the world, your days and nights will be inverted and your body’s sleep schedule will be thrown out of whack. You can help your body adjust to the new schedule by taking melatonin supplements shortly before your new bedtime.
Melatonin kicks in rather quickly so you should only take the supplements when you are about to sleep. Although it is a natural remedy, there may be some serious repercussions if melatonin supplements are used too often or too long.
- Furthermore, experts warn that melatonin should never be used by people diagnosed with depression, autoimmune disease and schizophrenia, as well as women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Kava Kava Supplements
Kava Kava is a popular remedy for anxiety but it is a highly effective herbal treatment for insomnia too. More precisely, kava is said to be one of the best natural remedies for anxiety-related insomnia. There are many supplements that help with anxiety and insomnia specifically, so it depends what your insomnia is caused by.
Valerian
This is another very popular herb for helping people get better sleep. You can easily find this herbal remedy in most health food stores.
Insomnia is indeed a serious problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. We all need our sleep and quality sleep is what we need most.
If you choose a herbal remedy for insomnia check with your doctor if you have concerns, especially if you are not sure what is causing your insomnia problems.
Never self-diagnose or treat, especially with anything that is not natural! Sleeping pills come with all sorts of warnings.
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melatonin should never be used by people diagnosed with depression, autoimmune disease
Why is this the case? I have used Melatonin for years to help me sleep & I have Rheumatoid Arthritis. I can’t say I have seen any problem.
Hi Rocky,
I found an article that may help answer your question.
The article said that Melatonin is not recommended for autoimmune disorders because, “Melatonin enhances the immune system and therefore those with autimmune diseases should use melatonin only in very low doses.”
As for depression they said,
“On the basis of theoretical ideas about how melatonin works, some authorities specifically recommend against using it for depression, schizophrenia, autoimmune diseases and other serious illnesses, and in pregnant or nursing women.
Some studies showing melatonin to be an effective treatment for depression were flawed. Melatonin is unlikely to produce significant positive effects in the treatment of depression in most patients, especially if the patient is not already melatonin-deficient. Badly timed use of melatonin can worsen depression.
However, some patients with SAD (seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression associated with the shortening of the days in autumn and winter) have been shown to have disrupted melatonin cycles, and have been treated effectively with light therapy.”
http://www.diagnose-me.com/treatment/melatonin.html
I hope that helps!