Herbal Remedies for Insomnia
September 5, 2009
If you are suffering from insomnia, you can take the help of several herbs to help you fall asleep. Several studies have upheld the effectiveness of herbs in healing problems of sleeplessness.
Valerian
For centuries, valerian is used as a tranquilizer. Valerian stimulates the secretion of gamma amino butyric acid, which is a neurotransmitter that helps us to fall asleep by relaxing our nerves. Several sedatives containing valerian extracts are available in the market.
However, this herb or herbal medicines containing valerian extract should not be consumed for more than a month. Prolonged intake of valerian might cause dizziness, headache, gastrointestinal problems and itching. Pregnant and lactating women should stay away from valerian.
Chamomile is another popular herb that can help to cure problems of sleeplessness. Chamomile contains chrysin, which is a flavonoid that helps to relax your body and mind, helping you to fall asleep easily. To reduce insomnia, have a cup of chamomile tea half an hour before bedtime. To prepare chamomile tea, pour one cup of boiling water over one teaspoon of dried chamomile flower. Allow the tea to steep for about half an hour.
Passion Flower
The flavonoids present in passion flower have benzodiazepine like sedative effect. Having passion flower tea 30 to 40 minutes before going to sleep can help you to have a sound sleep. Passion flower tea is prepared by boiling one teaspoon of dried passion flower in a cup of water for about 15 minutes. Passion flower is a safe sedative. It doesn’t have any side effects and does not produce any groggy effect after waking up in the morning.
Lemon balm
Lemon balm is an herb of the mint family that can help you to sleep. Taking lemon balm tea before going to sleep can help to cure insomnia. Lemon balm tea is prepared by adding two teaspoons of dried lemon balm in boiling water. Allow the tea to steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
California poppy
This herb is useful as a mild sedative. It doesn’t have any side effect. Drinking one cup of California poppy tea, two to three times a day, could help to heal insomnia.


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