Insomnia -- a sleep disturbance in which you experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep -- is a relatively common problem among children. The Cleveland Clinic states that insomnia, including insomnia among children, is often associated with decreased daytime functioning and non-rejuvenating sleep. Insomnia is classified based on duration, severity and frequency. Some herbal remedies may help treat your child's insomnia, although you should always discuss the use of herbs with your doctor before giving your child these powerful natural substances.
About Insomnia
Some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with insomnia, notes the National Center for Biotechnology Information, include an inability to fall asleep at night, fatigue during the daytime, awaking feeling unrefreshed and waking up multiple times throughout the night. Other possible symptoms associated with this health problem include irritability, mood swings, hyperactivity, aggression, school problems and disciplinary problems. Childhood insomnia may be caused by several factors, including stress, caffeine consumption, certain medications, environmental factors and certain sleep disorders.
Helpful Herbal Treatments
Valerian and passionflower may be two of the most helpful herbal remedies in treating insomnia, notes Drs. Michael Murray and Joseph Pizzorno, naturopathic doctors and co-authors of "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine." Other herbal remedies that may be both safe and effective in treating your child's insomnia include lemon balm, skullcap, hops, California poppy, catnip and chamomile, although you should only give your child herbs if your doctor approves. Some of these herbal remedies may require further scientific testing to determine their true efficacy.
Featured Herb
Lemon balm may be one of the safest and most effective herbs in treating your child's insomnia. Lemon balm, notes Dr. William A. Mitchell Jr., a naturopathic physician and author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," is a mild sedative. The herb and leaves of the lemon balm plant are used medicinally to help treat numerous health complaints, including insomnia, gastric dyspepsia and female reproductive tract problems. Mitchell notes that the fresh plant may be used in salads and the dried herb can be used to make tea.
Disclaimer
If your child suffers from insomnia, schedule an appointment with your doctor to review the safest and most effective treatment methods to address this health problem. Some herbs may not be appropriate for your child and may trigger allergic reactions or interfere with other medications. If you are considering giving your child herbal remedies to help treat insomnia, review proper dosage with your physician to avoid any health complications.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Insomnia in Children
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Insomnia
- "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Michael Murray, N.D. and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D.; 1998
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
