Herbs That Help You Sleep

Tangled sheets, tossing and turning... anyone who has ever suffered from even one sleepless night will tell you just how horrible of an experience it is. Counting sheep doesn't help, and no matter how bored you are by the re-runs that are on at 3am your brain just doesn't seem to be able to “bored” itself to sleep. You don't want a prescription or over the counter drugs to help you with your nighttime woes; isn't there a natural way?

The good news is that yes, there are several natural and effective ways to help you get into that dozy bedtime state. We'll go over the best selections below:

Chamomile

This herb has long been used as a sedative to help those suffering from restless nights. Not only can it be ingested as a tea, but it can also be put into a bath (chamomile oil), used as a massage oil, used as a tincture to be consumed or even be inhaled.

There are some potential side effects to chamomile, however. As it is a sedative, do be aware that if you are on antiepileptic medications in particular that the sedative effect will increase and mental capacities may temporarily “slow down”. One who uses chamomile tea may also suffer from allergic reactions, including contact dermatitis.

Valerian Root

Suffering from sleepless nights? Are you constantly plagued by nervous, anxious feelings? Valerian root is a great way to reduce “sleep latency” (the amount of time it takes us to go into restful sleep). Those who are currently taking or are prescribed Valium often will make the switch to Valerian root as it has none of the negative side effects that similar prescription drugs offer.

Some reported side effects are that Valerian root actually increases feelings of nervousness and anxiety rather than alleviate them. Heart palpitations may occur. This being said, the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) has given Valerian a “class 1” safety rating, meaning that it is a very safe herb to take.

TIP: This herb can be combined with skullcap, hops, California poppy and passion flower for an added sedative effect.

In addition to the above mentioned herbs, you can try making one of these two teas at home to help you get a good night's rest:

Relaxing Tea

• 1 part Catnip
• 1 part Lemon balm
• 1 part Hawthorn
• 1 part Wintergrean
• 1 part Linden flowers
• 2 parts Chamomile
• 1/8 Stevia herb

Combine these herbs together and steep for up to 20 minutes in boiling water. Strain and enjoy!

Homemade Sleepy tea

• 1 part Catnip
• 2 parts Chamomile
• 2 parts Linden
• 2 parts Kava kava
• 3 parts Valerian root

Blend the loose herbs and steep in boiling water. Steep this tea for up to 20 minuets as well before straining and enjoying. Place excess tea in the refrigerator to be used later on.

Remember to take time to wind down before going to bed. Give yourself a nice foot bath with some essential oils (lavender is great at helping me find my “sleepy place”), grab a book and sip some of that tea. Soon before you know it, you will be banishing that insomnia for good.

photo by Aradia Di