Insomnia Folk Remedies

It’s been estimated that in the US alone approximately 32 million people suffer from insomnia. With the stress of today’s fast paced lifestyles, many of us are finding it harder and harder to get enough sleep. But, the problem doesn’t only exist in today’s world, herbal remedies for insomnia date back thousands of years.

Insomnia may just be an occasional aggravation, but if not taken care of the effects can be detrimental to your health. Not getting enough sleep increases your risk of diabetes, it damages the immune system, your body will become more sensitive to pain, your reflexes become slower and it’s even been linked to memory impairment!

Valerian Root

One of the oldest known herbal remedies for insomnia is Valerian Root.
Valerian Root was recommended by Galen in the second century A.D. Valerian can be used in a liquid or capsule form and even as a tea. Taken 30-60 minutes before going to bed, the recommended dosage is one cup of tea, one capsule of 150-600 milligrams, and if taking it in a liquid form, you should take 1/2 to one teaspoon. A little experimenting and you’ll quickly find the right dosage for your body.

Chamomile

Proven to be very effective aid against sleeplessness, Chamomile has been used for centuries. A hot cup of Chamomile tea drank about thirty minutes before bedtime may be just what you need for a peaceful nights rest.

Lavender

Lavender may be one of the most known sleep aids today, it is commonly used in bath salts and oils for it’s calming effects. The benefits of lavender are aromatic, in oil form it can be applied to your neck or wrists.

Kava

Known for it’s muscle relaxing abilities, kava can help you sleep better. Doses of 150 mg is recommended. However, there have been reports of liver failure from using this herb, consult your doctor before trying this method.

Passion flower

Passion flower contains properties that help relieve restlessness, it should be taken in 50 mg dosages. The dosage can be increased until relief is found.

Nutmegs
Grinding four nutmegs to a fine powder and taking before bedtime is said to be an effective aide against insomnia.

Ginseng is claimed to counter and balance out the effects of stress allowing a peaceful nights sleep.

Catnip is often used in products to promote sleep and can be taken as a tea before bedtime.

Jasmine is a mild nerve sedative, a cup of Jasmine tea before bedtime can help you to relax and fall asleep easier.

hops
Another traditional cure for insomnia is hops, they are known for their sedative and muscle relaxing abilities.

Lemon balm contains oils that provide a sedative effect and can be taken as a tea to promote sleep.

Ylang-ylang oil has properties that calm excitability and restlessness making it easier for you to drift off to sleep.