Insomnia can be a frustrating and debilitating condition that affects a lot of people around the world. It’s characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or getting restful sleep.

This lack of sleep can lead to exhaustion during the day, mood swings, irritability, poor cognitive function, and weakened immunity. While there are various conventional treatments for sleep problems, including medications, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes, some people prefer to try natural remedies.

In this article, we’ll explore three natural herbs that have been shown to help with insomnia.

Valerian Root

Valerian root is a natural herb that’s been used for centuries as a sleep aid.

It’s believed to help with insomnia by increasing the production and concentration of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the body. Some studies have also shown that valerian root can improve sleep quality, reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and reduce night awakenings.

One study of 128 people found that those who took valerian root extract before bed experienced improvements in sleep quality and a reduction in the amount of time it took to fall asleep compared to a placebo.

Chamomile

Chamomile is a herb that’s been used for centuries for its calming and relaxing effects. It’s often used as a tea before bedtime to help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

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There is some evidence to suggest that chamomile can help with insomnia. For example, a study of 34 adults with chronic insomnia found that those who drank chamomile tea daily for two weeks experienced improvements in sleep quality compared to a placebo group.

Another study of 60 older adults found that those who took chamomile extract capsules daily for 28 days experienced improvements in sleep quality and daytime functioning compared to a placebo group.

Lavender

Lavender is a popular herb that’s often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. There is some evidence to suggest that lavender can help with insomnia.

For example, a study of 79 college students found that those who slept in a lavender-scented room experienced better sleep quality and felt more refreshed in the morning compared to those who slept in a room scented with a placebo oil. Another study of 221 patients in a nursing home found that those who received lavender aromatherapy before bedtime experienced improvements in sleep quality and reduced need for sedative medication.

Conclusion

While there are various conventional treatments for insomnia, natural remedies such as valerian root, chamomile, and lavender can also be effective.

These herbs have been used for centuries for their calming and relaxing effects and there is some scientific evidence to suggest that they can improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia symptoms. However, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before trying any herbal remedies, as they may interact with medications or have side effects.