Do you occasionally experience sleeplessness? You are not alone. One third of Americans struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep at some time or another, usually caused by stress, anxiety, depression or other physiological disorders. If you suffer from insomnia, gentle herbal remedies can help you get your rest and relaxation.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb that is known by herbalist to promote deep, dreamless sleep. It is one of the best herbs for the mind upon which it is nurturing and clarifying. Ashwagandha is also wonderful for the person who sleeps well, but does not feel refreshed in the morning. The rejuvenative properties in Ashwagandha can be taken for stress-induced fatigue, nervous exhaustion and general debility.*
Chamomile
Chamomile is the best all-around calming herb for the whole family. It is especially helpful when stress affects the digestive system. Chamomile induces sleep and reportedly useful for nightmares. Pets get stressed out too - try to add some chamomile tea to their water.*
Lavender
Lavender is a strong nervous system strengthener and a mood enhancer. It is one of the best herbs to add to the bath for alleviating tension, stress, anxiety and insomnia. You’ll love the fragrance of lavender.*
Tranquil
Tranquil is a formula used by herbalists for insomnia, stress related conditions and relaxation. I personally like this formula when I feel overwhelmed by too many activities and cannot sleep, or I feel anxiety coming on. A traditional formula also known by many migraine sufferers for its calming effect during times of stress.*
Valerian
Valerian has been regarded as an herbal sedative for centuries. Despite its distinct and somewhat offensive odor, Valerian continues to be one of the most popular medicinal herbs in the world. Its name is derived from the Latin valore, “to be well”. Valerian is effective both for insomnia and as a long-term nerve tonic (strengthens the nervous system). It also has a powerful tonic effect on the heart and often recommended in combination with hawthorn berries. It may slow down a fast heart beat while increasing the force of every heart beat. By the way, cats love it too, sometimes more than catnip.*
Herbs To Quiet Your Mind
Are you unable to sleep because of a racing mind? Do you think endlessly about tomorrow’s work, relationships and upcoming events? Your adrenaline is pumping and you just can’t fall asleep. A combination of Valerian and Chamomile with the addition of a small amount of Goldenseal essence may be helpful to still a hyper-focused mind, interrupt and slow down adrenaline responses, allowing you to let go, slow down and drift into a deep uninterrupted sleep. The Herb Stop makes a formula, Quiet Mind, which has helped many people who cannot sleep because of an active mind. REM is another formula available at The Herb Stop that supports deep and restful sleep. Herbalists use this formula for sleeping disorders, to deepen sleep patterns, narcolepsy and fibromyalgia.*
Herbs To Release Your Worries
Do you have problems sleeping because you worry? You are up all night worrying about the “should have, could have and would haves?” These thoughts are upsetting and trigger undesirable emotional responses. A few drops of the following herbs may help you release your worries so that you can fall asleep:
- Valerian whole plant extract 10 drops
- Lavender flower extract 10 drops
- Love Awareness Essence 10 drops
Some people find they don’t sleep well when going through times of extreme tension and stress. During such times it is important to stay away from stimulants, such as coffee, cola, etc. Instead, you may want to drink calming herb teas throughout the day. They won’t make you sleepy but give you energy, rebuild, strengthen and nourish your nervous system. At night you will be more relaxed and have a better chance of getting your “zzz's”. You can prepare your own tea blend with the following herbs:
- Passionflower 1 teaspoon
- Skullcap 1 teaspoon
- California Poppy 1 teaspoon
- Oat Straw and Seed 1 teaspoon
- Wood Betony 1 teaspoon
- Vervein 1 teaspoon
- Valerian, whole plant 2 teaspoons
- Lavender 2 teaspoons
Combine the herbs. Steep one tablespoon of herbs in a cup of boiled water (called an infusion) for at least 15 minutes, then strain. Longer steeping makes for a stronger taste. You may add some honey if desired.*
The Herb Stop has this tea formula already made up, Sleepy Tea, all you need to do is add hot water.
How about a cup of hot cocoa with added herbs before bed? Bedtime Cocoa Mix is a pleasurable beverage you can enjoy before going to bed.*
Relaxing And Sleep Inducing Aromatherapy Blend
Another way of getting your zzz”s is with aromatherapy oils. Blend together these amazing oils and add them to your diffuser or Aloe Jelly. This recipe has worked for me many times over.
- Lavender essential oil 10 drops
- Roman chamomile essential oil 5 drops
- Bergamot essential oil 20 drop
Peace Potion
Peace Potion is made with essential oils that are know to encourage feelings of calm, peace and relaxation. This oil blend was created for times of stress, tension, anxiety and overwhelm. Use Peace Potion to center the mind, body and emotions.*
Good Night Sleep Oil
Good Night Sleep Oil promotes restful sleep for those who prefer aromatherapy to capsules and extracts. The essential oils in this blend have been used for relaxation, insomnia tension and muscle spasms. Place a few drops on the bottom of your feet before bed, or a few drops in your aromatherapy diffuser.*
Tranquility of Mind
Tranquility of Mind is a vibrational essence to help with an overactive mind. It does not make you sleepy, but stops all these many thoughts going through one's mind, but you are not sure what you are thinking about.*
Important
Dim the lights in your house about two hours before you go to bed. Light prevents the pineal gland from producing melatonin, the sleeping hormone. Sleep in complete darkness if possible. There should be as little light in the bathroom as possible in case you get up in the middle of the night. Remove all electronics from your bedroom, or at least 6 feet away from where you sleep, to prevent electro-smog and restless night.
Written by Leilah