Sleep anxiety is a common root cause of insomnia. While there are many prescription sleep aids that can help reduce sleep anxiety, some medicines may cause dependence or unwanted side effects. As an alternative to these drugs, many people turn to natural sleep remedies such as valerian root and kava, though the efficacy of many herbal remedies is still under debate. Nonetheless, herbal sleep supplements should only be used with caution as they may cause drowsiness and confusion. Herbal sleeping supplements may also interact with many prescription medications. If you have sleep anxiety and would like to use an herbal sleep aid in place of prescription sleeping pills, talk to your doctor about how to best take natural sleep supplements.
Generalized Sleep Supplements
Many health food stores sell blends of herbal supplements that are specifically designed to help ease sleep anxiety and improve sleep quality. While some of these supplements may help you get a better night's sleep, it is important to understand what these supplements contain and how their ingredients may interact with your current medications. If you decide to use an herbal sleep aid, choose one from a reputable brand that clearly labels the ingredients of the supplement.
Valerian for Sleep
Valerian root is a very popular herbal supplement that is used to reduce sleep anxiety and improve sleep quality. This supplement can be taken in capsule form, but it is also commonly used as a tea before bedtime. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that valerian root may provide a safe and effective alternative to sleeping pills. While many studies of valerian have demonstrated its efficacy, other studies have shown that valerian has little or no effect on reducing insomnia. According to MedlinePlus, the sleep-improving benefits of valerian may take several weeks to take effect. To get the full benefits of valerian, it may be necessary to take valerian 3 times a day, with one dose taken 1 to 2 hours before going to sleep.
St. John's Wort
In addition to being a potentially effective herbal remedy for depression and anxiety disorder, St. John's wort can also reduce insomnia and sleep anxiety and improve sleep quality. The American Cancer Society explains that St. John's wort is used in Europe to treat sleep anxiety issues. St. John's wort can have a number of effects on your brain function and should not be used in combination with other drugs that affect your central nervous system. Like valerian, it may also take several weeks for its full effects to set in. If mild clinical depression is the source of your sleep anxiety, St. John's wort may provide a natural treatment that can improve both your quality of sleep and your state of mind.
Kava and Anxiety
Kava is a natural anti-agent that may also help reduce sleep anxiety and improve sleep quality. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that kava can be just as effective as valium for reducing anxiety. Because of potential liver toxicity issues, however, kava's popularity as a calming agent and sleep remedy have diminished. Since kava has the potential to damage your liver, it should only be used under the close supervision of a physician.
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