Sleep problems are common in the United States -- only about 35 percent of American adults get eight or more hours of sleep per night, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Insufficient sleep can reduce mental sharpness and can interfere with your body's ability to heal and rebuild cells. Certain herbal teas may help you fall asleep and stay asleep. Check with your doctor before taking any herbal tea to address sleep problems.
Valerian Tea
Valerian tea has a long history of use in herbal medicine -- German herbalists recommended valerian for sleep problems as early as the 1300s, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." Valerian contains chemical compounds, called valepotriates, which may offer sedative benefits that help you fall asleep. Check with your physician if you plan to use valerian tea as a remedy for sleep problems. This herb may cause headaches and vision disturbances.
Motherwort Tea
Ancient Greek and Roman healers originally used motherwort as a treatment for depression. Traditional Chinese healers believed that this herb could extend your lifespan. Motherwort may also be useful for sleep disturbances and insomnia. It contains chemical compounds that have sedative properties, according to Castleman. Contact your doctor before treating sleep problems with motherwort tea -- this herb may in blood clotting and may occasionally cause stomach upset.
Catnip Tea
Americans recognize catnip as a feline intoxicant. However, humans have used this herb for medicinal purposes far longer than they have used it in cat toys. Ancient Chinese healers prescribed catnip as a cold remedy more than 2,000 years ago. European herbalists recommended it as a treatment for scarlet fever. Catnip tea may also help treat sleep disorders, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This herb contains chemicals called nepetalactone isomers, which may help relieve insomnia. Talk to your doctor before drinking catnip tea -- in rare cases, it may promote diarrhea.
Chamomile Tea
Ancient Egyptians believed that chamomile could cure malaria, and Greeks used it as a remedy for liver and gall bladder disorders. Chamomile also offers mild sedative benefits, according to Balch. Drinking a cup of chamomile tea before bedtime may relax your muscles and relieve anxiety, allowing you to fall asleep more quickly. Consult your physician before using chamomile tea for sleep problems. Although side effects are rare, chamomile may cause nausea and vomiting.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
