Sleep apnea is a common disorder in which a person experiences frequent pauses in breathing while sleeping. Most people who have sleep apnea are unaware they have the condition unless it is noticed by another person. A loud snort or choking sound when breathing starts again can be an indication of sleep apnea. While some herbs can help relax or improve the quality of sleep, they should not be considered a cure-all or used as primary treatment for sleep apnea. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplements, homeopathic treatment, or alternative medicines for treating any conditions.
Chamomile
Chamomile indirectly promotes sleep by reducing nervousness and increasing calmness in users. A study published in the August 2009 issue of "Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology" found that those with generalized anxiety disorder experienced significantly reduced symptoms after receiving pharmaceutical-grade chamomile extract for eight weeks. Taking chamomile before bedtime can help you feel more relaxed and sleep more restfully.
Kava Kava
Kava Kava can be traced back hundreds of years to the Pacific Islands where it was used as a ceremonial drink. Some studies have shown evidence that kava kava lessens the time it takes to fall asleep, which is known as sleep latency. However, the herb has been linked to liver damage and should not be taken without a doctor's supervision due to this risk.
Skullcap
There are two main types of skullcap: Chinese and American. American skullcap is the form commonly used as a sedative, though more research is needed to prove its effectiveness. It is usually taken in conjunction with other herbal sedatives such as passionflower. A study published in the March-April 2003 edition of "Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine" showed skullcap did have ease anxiety in healthy volunteers.
Passionflower
Passionflower is a plant native to southeastern areas of the Americas, but is now widely grown throughout Europe where it is used primarily for its calming effects. The plant is often taken with other sedative herbs, like skullcap, valerian, and lemon balm. It can help relieve stress or nervousness before bedtime, allowing you to get a better night's sleep.
References
- "Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology"; A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Oral Matricaria Recutita (Chamomile) Extract Therapy for Generalized Anxiety Disorder; JD Amsterdam, et al; August 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Kava Kava
- Beth Israel Deconess Medical Center; Skullcap
- "Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine"; An Investigation Into the Efficacy of Scutellaria Lateriflora in Healthy Volunteers; P Wolfson, et al; April 2003
- Medicine Plus; Passionflower
- University of Maryland; Passionflower
