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How to Lick Insomnia With Herbs

Contributor
By Barbara Fahs
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Few things in life are more frustrating or annoying than not being able to sleep. Prescription medicines can help, but they can cause problems like dependency on them and even “hangovers” from the lingering effects of their ingredients. But you can help to overcome your insomnia by using some safe, gentle herbs and by doing some breathing and relaxation exercises before bedtime.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Chamomile tea
  • Valerian root tincture
  • Kava kava capsules
  • Lavender oil
  1. Step 1

    Drink a delicious cup of chamomile tea while you’re enjoying a book or movie. Be sure to drink this at least one hour before bedtime because the liquid will make you urinate and it’s best to avoid the need to get up an hour after you fall asleep.

  2. Step 2

    Drink this tea to relax you and promote a restful sleep. Rinse, chop, and place these herbs in a teapot: 4 tbsp. chamomile flowers, 2 tbsp. kava kava leaves, 2 tbsp. catnip, 4 tbsp. passionflower leaves and 2 tbsp. linden flowers or leaves. Pour boiling water over herbs and steep for about 5 minutes. Strain. Add honey and lemon if desired. If you cannot find some of the herbs listed, it’s all right to leave one of them out.

  3. Step 3

    Use valerian root, stronger herb that is very effective. It is available in capsules or tincture. Valerian is said to be the most effective “cerebral” sedative of all the herbs, so if your body is tired yet your mind is still racing, valerian just might do the trick to calm that overactive brain of yours. Take three full droppers of tincture in a small glass of water or juice or follow label instructions for capsules.

  4. Step 4

    Realize kava kava can be useful for promoting sleep as well. It’s available in capsules or as a tincture. Be sure not to exceed label instructions for dosage because too much kava can cause very colorful dreams.

  5. Step 5

    Take a soothing bath before bedtime. Add about one teaspoonful of lavender oil to your bath water and relax with some deep breathing.

Tips & Warnings
  • Do some simple yoga exercises about one hour before bedtime, concentrating on your deep breathing.
  • Stop consuming coffee and tea after about 3 p.m. because caffeine’s effects can linger for many hours and can contribute to your inability to sleep. Soft drinks like colas sometimes contain caffeine and can contribute to a sleepless night.
  • Always consult a qualified health care practitioner before using any herb, especially if you are pregnant or nursing or if you are taking any prescribed medications.

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