How To Cure Insomnia Using Herbs And Herbal Remedies

The herb kava, also known as kava kava, may be used as a substitute for over the counter and prescription sleep aids. It is a potent sedative. When you first use it, see how you respond. Start with a small amount as it is strong. Kava is traditionally prepared by an extensive process. For ease of use, kava tincture is effective.

Lavender flowers can be made into a tea. The flavor is quite strong, so it is best to just add a pinch or two of organic flowers to a blend of other herbs which aid sleep. Lavender relieves headaches and stress which interfere with getting a good night’s sleep.

Skull cap is one of the best herbs to use for the treatment of insomnia. I recommend the tincture; however, you could mix the dried herb with other sleep inducing herbs to make a tea. Use 3-4 milliliters of the tincture before bed. You may repeat it if necessary. Skullcap calms restless thoughts and relieves both physical and mental stress.

California poppy soothes and is mildly sedating. Unlike the opium poppy, California poppy is gentle and safe for all.

Herbal Adaptogens Promote Sleep

People who work irregular schedules or suffer from jet lag benefit by using adaptogenic herbs regularly. Most people with insomnia suffer from some kind of mental or physical stress. While adaptogens do not sedate, they increase the body’s ability to withstand physical and emotional stress. They help the entire body to function well. If you are healthy and relaxed, you are less likely to suffer from insomnia.

Eleuthero, ashwagandha, and reishi are good choices. Adaptogens work very slowly. It may take a few months for them to reach maximum effectiveness. Despite their slowness, they are a very valuable asset for anyone who suffers from insomnia.

Help for Night Sweats

If night sweats and hot flashes wake you up, a tincture made of equal parts passionflower, sage, and motherwort is helpful. You may not be able to purchase this blend as a combination. If it is unavailable as a blend, purchase or make all three tinctures and combine it yourself. Take 3-4 milliliters after dinner. Repeat at bedtime. If you awaken during the night, you may repeat the dose again.

The Bottom Line – Using Herbs for Insomnia Relief

There are many herbs which promote relaxation and sleep. Most work gently but effectively. Be sure to use herbs as part of a well rounded program to help you sleep. Have a restful environment, avoid caffeine in the evening, and follow a relaxing routine prior to retiring. By creating an environment conducive to rest and using herbs, you may fall asleep quicker, sleep sounder, and wake up feeling energized and rested.

Author

This article was written for Insights-on-Health.com in Nov 2013 by Patricia Bratianu RN PhD RH-AHG. Patricia has been a Registered Nurse for almost forty years in a wide variety of settings. As a Registered Nurse, she realized that conventional healthcare was not meeting the needs of all patients. She became an herbalist and obtained a PhD in Natural Health. Patricia is a professional member of the American Herbalist’s Guild, passing the stringent peer reviewed process to become a Registered Herbalist.

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