Why Natural Insomnia Remedies Are Better Than Medications

The international classification of sleep disorders mentions over 80 causes of insomnia and just as many if not more treatment options. It makes sense that you'd treat a case of obstructive sleep apnea differently than sleeplessness caused by stress. For serious illnesses and disorders, medical intervention is necessary. However, for insomnia caused by ordinary circumstances of daily life, natural insomnia remedies tend to work better and have fewer side effects than traditional medications.



Using any drug on a long-term basis is generally not recommended due to potential side effects. In addition, medications can hide underlying diseases responsible for insomnia. The potential for addiction is also a concern and when used for long periods of time, it may become more difficult and painful to stop treatment.



In certain cases your physician may decide that medication is the best option for you. A good example of this is in the case of severe anxiety or depression. Sometimes natural remedies are not enough to deal with the severity of the condition. For mild cases, however, they may work perfectly fine. Each case should be treated on an individual basis.



Other alternatives for relieving stress and anxiety that contribute to insomnia are certain therapies your doctor may recommend and even hypnosis. There's a lot you can do on your own as well such as relaxation techniques, deep breathing and even drinking a warm cup of milk before bedtime. Anything you can do to get your mind in a sleep-friendly state rather than worrying about what you need to do the next day will help.



We often think of plants and herbs when looking at natural insomnia cures. Certain species can help relieve insomnia as well as the stress and anxiety that often cause it. The great thing about the majority of herbal treatments is that they are relatively safe and free from side effects. As with anything used to treat yourself though, always check with your doctor before taking anything new.



Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): This herb has been used as a tranquilizer and sleeping pill for over 1000 years. Taking into account its efficiency, valerian was compared with diazepam. But unlike the other barbiturates, valerian doesn't cause nausea in the morning or lead to addiction.



Passiflora (Passiflora incarnata) was introduced in the U.S. as a mild sedative. This plant contains alkaloids which fight against depression and insomnia.



Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is recognized worldwide for its ability to calm the body and mind. In Ayurveda, Gotu Kola is considered an herb that induces relaxation and energizes the senses. It's rich in complex B vitamins, making it effective in cases of insomnia.



St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum): Studies have shown that this plant can be used successfully in case of anxiety and stress, improving the quality of sleep. Today, it is used as a natural sedative.



If you're one of the millions of people who suffer from insomnia, don't hesitate to consider all of your options. Natural insomnia remedies may be able to provide the help you're looking for.