It seems that many people are taking prescription sleep aids these days. Are natural sleep aids a viable alternative?

Between the economy, the election, violence, and other issues of living the world is full of stressful situations and it may leave you staring at your bedroom ceiling long after that last sheep has been counted. According to the commercials on television and in magazines the only thing you need to do is to try OTC sleep aids (over-the counter) or even prescription sleep medications. Are these chemical and synthetic substances really the best sleep aids for you?

Maybe not. People have been using various herbal sleep remedies for many years with great success. There are other ways of getting a good night's sleep as well.

Herbs work with your body to naturally strengthen and heal it. While conventional medications may cover symptoms they do not help the body to heal itself. Some herbal remedies for insomnia are:

Valerian

Valerian is a very potent herb that has been used to induce normal sleep patterns for thousands of years. It is said that Hippocrates used Valerian to help him get a good night's rest. It can be taken on its own or in conjunction with other relaxing herbs. Valerian has an terrible smell, much like a fifteen year old boy's week old gym socks, so it is best taken in capsule form rather than as a tea. It is especially strong when taken in combination with other herbs like hops. It is not addictive and can be used as desired. Take it last thing though, it tends to work very quickly. Plan on taking two to three 500 mg capsules for an adult dose.

Kava Kava

Kava is a South American herb that has been used with good results. It relaxes the nervous system and helps to calm anxiety in most people. It is also helpful for relaxing muscles. It should not be taken for a long period of time, however, because long term use of this herb may cause liver damage.

Hops

Yes, it is the same hops that beer is made from. This herb acts as a mild sedative and can induce sleep. It is more effective when coupled with Valerian or Kava Kava. Be cautious with hops as it contains phyto- estrogens and should not be given to children. Men should use it with caution.

Chamomile

Chamomile is used as a tea to relax the body and prepare it for sleep. It is a good idea to sup some warm chamomile tea and honey about thirty minutes before bedtime to help you wind down.

Skullcap

Skullcap is generally used in a tincture. It promotes sleep as well as helps people deal with withdrawal from prescription drug addictions. It supports the nervous system during stress and balances hormones gone wild.

St. John's Wort

St. John's Wort is most often used for depression but what many people do not know is that it promotes a deep REM sleep cycle. This sleep cycle is essential for good health.

Many of these herbs can be found in combination, making them more effective than if they were taken along. The possible exception to this is Valerian.

When you can't sleep there are a few nutritional supplements that may help.

• Magnesium-at least 1,000 mg per day in divided doses.
• Calcium- at least 2,000mg per day in divided doses
• Melatonin- start at 1.5 mgs per day and take this for about a week. If it is not effective then increase the dose five mgs per day. Melatonin should not be taken more than 1 1/2 hours before bedtime.
• B vitamins- of course it is important to get all of the B vitamins that your body needs.

There are many ways to encourage a deep sleep by changing your lifestyle. Exercise is one of the best insomnia cures, as well as one of the cheapest. Taking a walk in the afternoon can help the body, as well as the mind, to relax. Other things that you can do to ensure a deep sleep are:

• Eat foods like turkey, milk, banana, peanut butter, whole grain crackers, and figs in the evening.
• Stay away from caffeine after lunch
• Avoid alcohol
• No heavy meals within three hours of bedtime.
• Watch out for decongestants
• Sugar can get you wound up
• Go to bed at the same time every night
• Get up at the same time every day
• Do not nap
• Take a warm bath before bed

Natural sleeping remedies are better than other sleep medications in the long run. They work with your entire system to heal, relax and give you the healthy lifestyle you have be working toward.

Use patience. It often takes herbal remedies longer to become effective than it does conventional drugs. Always check with your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you are on prescription drugs.