Insomnia is a sleep disorder in adults, which is more common in women than in men though the quality of sleep decreases in both with age. Causes of insomnia include stress, depression, temperature changes, side effects of medicines, environmental changes, hormonal imbalance, chronic pain, and a number of other health reasons. Lifestyle changes like consumption of alcohol and smoking may also cause this sleep disorder, reports Newsmax Health.
Medications and natural remedies can help insomnia patients. These remedies are inexpensive and effective for curing insomnia and sleep problems. Medicinal herbs have been used to treat sleep disorder since ancient times. These herbs include lavender, lemon balm, St. John’s Wort, and passionflower, among others. Some natural remedies helpful to treat insomnia include:
Chamomile: Drinking chamomile tea 30 minutes before going to sleep is one of the most effective remedies to aid good sleep.
Kava: Kava is among herbs that have anti-anxiety properties. However, herbs that counter anxiety, including kava, have been associated with potential severe side effect risks.
Withania somnifera: Winter cherry or ashwagandha is among herbs that are effective remedies for treating stress, a major cause of insomnia. Using an extract, pill, or tisane of these herbs can reduce stress.
Valerian: Valerian is a dietary supplement that has been used since ancient times. Patients using valerian herbs or extracts should not combine it with any other medication and supplements.
5-HTTP: 5-Hydroxytryptophan is one of the natural remedies beneficial for treating insomnia. It is associated with serotonin, which is helpful to treat depression and anxiety. However, its long-term use should be avoided to prevent side effects.
Melatonin: Melatonin is among effective insomnia remedies. This natural herbal sleep aid works well for older people. The body’s melatonin hormone level decreases as the person ages. Melatonin as an insomnia remedy has no side effects when taken in low doses.
Passionflower: These herbs help treat sleep disorder. The herbs’ sedative properties are well known and it is particularly helpful for menopausal women. These herbs can be used as a tincture for treating sleep problems. Taking 10 to 20 drops of the tincture in water before bedtime is advised.
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