With more and more people suffering with insomnia every year, they’ve been looking for more natural sleep aids to help instead of using sleeping pills. They’d prefer not to use something that will leave them with terrible side effects, so what are the options that are out there?
Using Melatonin
Other than quality-tested CBD hemp oil being one of the top recommended sleep aids out there, melatonin is a very close second. It is a natural hormone that is released by the pineal gland in the brain that regulates your sleeping pattern. The levels of melatonin are at their highest right before bed.
Released naturally, it reduces the time it takes to fall asleep and can increase your duration of sleep. But if you have trouble falling asleep on your own, melatonin can be taken in pill or gummy form to provide that sleepiness effect.
Using Valerian
Valerian is a herbal extract, and has been used to manage insomnia as well as anxiety. It can improve sleep quality as well, and won’t cause grogginess in the morning. However, in order to experience the effects, you have to take it for about four weeks; you can’t take it for one night only.
There are some risks associated with taking valerian, but they’re pretty minor. Some people have reported having a “hangover feeling” after taking valerian. It should also not be taken with alcohol or other sedatives.
Using Chamomile
Chamomile is a sleep remedy that has been used for centuries. It is so gentle on the body that chamomile tea can even be given to babies to help them sleep. German chamomile can be made as a tea, while Roman chamomile can be used as a tincture. It can provide a calming effect, but there is not enough medical research to indicate whether it can help with insomnia or not.
Using Kava Kava
Kava kava is an herbal remedy that has been used to relieve anxiety, stress, and insomnia. It does have some sedative properties that can be helpful in falling asleep, but there are some serious risks associated with it. Although many have proclaimed that it can be used to induce relaxation without hindering memory, there have been reports in Europe stating that it can cause hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver failure if not taken in the correct dosage.
Using 5-HTP
5-HTP is derived from tryptophan, which is a precursor to the synthesis of serotonin in the brain. 5-HTP is also a precursor of melatonin, so you’re getting the benefits of both.
5-HTP has also been shown to alleviate the symptoms of depression and anxiety, but there is insufficient proof as to whether it can be used in the treatment of insomnia. One other benefit of 5-HTP is that is has been shown to control appetite and pain.
Like all drugs, even natural sleep remedies can have some side effects that you need to be aware of. And because they are not federally-regulated, you may accidentally overdose yourself if you’re not careful.
