Insomnia can be caused by a number of factors, including stress, depression and anxiety, according to the Mayo Clinic. Taking certain prescription drugs, including allergy medications, blood pressure drugs and corticosteroids might also lead to a sleepless night, as can caffeine and alcohol. In some cases, lack of sleep can be due to external factors, such as a noisy or too-bright bedroom, a change in schedule or eating too much close to bedtime. If changing your surroundings hasn't helped and you're not ready to start popping pills, there are a number of herbal remedies you can try.
Valerian
Valerian, or Valeriana officinalis, is probably the best known natural solution for insomnia. According to Mother Nature News, over 200 studies have been done on the efficacy and the use of valerian to induce sleep and promote relaxation. Valerian doesn't cause "morning-after" feelings such as sleepiness or dizziness. The herb is non-addictive. Valerian tea is available, but the herb has a strong and unpleasant taste, so you might want to consider a different format if you can't stomach it. Valerian pills and tincture are available and should be taken as indicated on the labels, since strengths and recommendations vary among brands.
Hops
According to Ray Sahelian, M.D., the hops plant, or Humulus lupulus, has been used for centuries to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. Sahelian points out that hops is a sedative, rather than a treatment for anxiety. This means hops will likely cause you to fall asleep but will not help you address any underlying stress or anxiety issue that might be causing the insomnia. Hops is usually sold in the form of tablets and dosage varies according to brand and strength of the supplement, but it's usually one to two tablets before bedtime. Hops is often combined with valerian and passionflower to create a calming mix and to mask the strong taste of valerian, according to The University of Maryland Medical Center.
Herbal Teas
A number of herbal teas can be used to help you relax and achieve sleep. These teas work as sedatives, calming not only the body but also the mind and helping you achieve sleep naturally. Chamomile, passionflower and catnip are popular options, according to Mother Earth News. Teas have the advantage of being gentler than pills, and the simple action of sitting down with a cup of tea can be relaxing in itself.
