Difficulty sleeping is a condition that affects millions of people. For some, this condition is intermittent, occurring infrequently or just in times of stress. For others, insomnia is a constant companion. Rather than a restful descent, getting to sleep becomes a nightly battle. Sleep is an essential portion of our health. It gives our bodies and minds time to rest and rejuvenate. There are natural remedies to try for those who frequently struggle with getting to sleep or staying asleep.
Natural Sleeping Remedies And Why You Should Try Them
While there are numerous chemical sleeping remedies available, they come with a host of problems. Many people who use these remedies report less restful sleep. They also report that the effects of these remedies tend to stay with them during the day. While getting sleep is important, getting there shouldn’t leave you exhausted the next day. Natural remedies don’t tend to have these side effects. Natural sleep aids improve relaxation, promote sleep, and ease anxiety. They often are tied to improving digestion and pain relief.
The first steps you can take involve “sleep hygiene” practices. Consider the following:
- Daytime naps should be 30 minutes or less
- Spend at least 10 minutes a day exercising
- Avoid stimulants like caffeine before bed
- Avoid fried meat, fatty foods, and heavy foods before bedtime
These are essential steps that can eliminate many of the core causes of insomnia. In addition to these, consider trying the following natural sleep aids:
Chamomile
This gentle herb is well-known for its calming effect and ability to promote relaxation. It’s a common ingredient in tea but can also be taken in tablet form. The benefits of chamomile include:
- Digestive aid
- Heals and soothes skin
- Muscle relaxant
- Eases headaches
Valerian
This herbal medicine is produced using the root of the Valerian plant. It has known sedative effects and goes well with most other herbs. It’s commonly used as a tea but is also available in tablet form. If you start using it and decide to stop, come off it gradually. Other benefits include:
- Ease stomach and menstrual cramps
- Relieve joint and muscle pain
- Lighten depression
- Ease headaches
Hops
This natural aid is produced from the flowers of the female hop plant. It is one of the foundation ingredients in beverages like beer and is a well-known herbal treatment. Studies have shown that those who consume non-alcoholic hops beer show improved sleep quality. More benefits attributed to hops include:
- lower cholesterol
- relieve irritability
- aid in digestive issues
- have antibacterial properties
These three represent the tip of an iceberg. Numerous other sleep aids may help you find the rest you need.
Speak With A Holistic Practitioner For Additional Guidance
Just because a sleep-aid is natural doesn’t mean that it comes without side effects. Be sure to go over the information provided with your selected aid carefully. It can also benefit you to seek help from a holistic practitioner. Their medical advice will cover all aspects of your health and ensure that a good night’s sleep is just part of your road to wellness.
