More and more people have trouble sleeping and struggle with insomnia. A good night sleep should be from 6 – 8 hours but the average American sleeps less than 6 hours. Crazy schedules and stress can keep you up all night and leave you feeling tired and nervous in the morning. Most Americans blame stress as the main reason for their insomnia. The downside is that many people turn to drugs to help them get a good night sleep. Sleeping drugs can cause addiction and you might end up getting immune to them. There are many natural ways that can help you fall asleep and have a good 8 hour sleep.
Instead of running to the drugstore, try our natural and herbal remedies. They’ll calm you down and help you to fall asleep.
1. Valerian Root
Valerian is a plant that has been used for ages as a sleeping aid and sedative. It contains compounds that have a calming effect on your nerves. Valerian root can be prepared as a tea, but it has a strong odor. If you can’t stand the odor, you can find it in a capsule form. Here’s how to prepare the valerian tea:
- 1 tbsp. dried valerian root
- a tea ball
- 8 oz. fresh water to boil
Put the valerian root in the tea ball. Boil 8oz. water and put the water in a mug. Place the tea ball in the mug. Cover the mug and leave it for 15 minutes before drinking it.
2. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea will help you relax your muscles, calm your nerves and can make you sleepy. Chamomile tea is also known to be a quite good sedative. The best way to prepare your chamomile tea is to use fresh chamomile flowers. Use only the flower heads and put them in a teapot. Boil water and pour the hot water over the chamomile heads. Leave it for 5-6 minutes before drinking it.
3. Saint John’s Wort
Saint John’s wort is a herb known to help fight against depression and disrupted sleep. This herb increases the serotonin levels which can lead to better sleep. Prepare it as you prepare your favorite tea and add some honey and lemon to get a better taste.
4. Passionflower
Passionflower is amazing for your body and soul. It can help you with your insomnia, sooth your nerves and relieve stress. A recent study has shown that passionflower can really improve the quality of your sleep and help you with your anxieties.
Soak 1 tbsp. dried passionflower leaves in hot water for 15 minutes.
5. Hops
Hops is a traditional medicine used for ages for calming and sleeping. Hops can help you calm your anxieties and help you get a good night sleep. Hops has also been proven to be a mild sedative and will help you calm your nerves. Drink a cup of hops tea before going to bed.
6. Lavender
Lavender is known to have calming and relaxing properties. Lavender tea can will help you feel less anxious, will make you feel calmer and will relieve your stress levels. Lavender tea will definitely improve your sleep quality. Drink 1 cup of lavender tea, 2-3 times a day to improve your sleep.
7. California Poppy
California poppy has been used for ages as a gentle sedative. Studies have shown that California poppy can help you fall asleep and calm your nervous system and anxieties. Since the plant is a sedative, it will make you relaxed and will help you fall asleep easier.
8. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a herb of the mint family that has calming effects. This herb can help you reduce your anxieties and it can help you get a good night sleep.
Read more: What are the benefits of Beauty Sleep