Best Natural Sleep Aids

'Tossing and turning', if this is how you describe your nights then your are one of the 30% Americans who suffer from insomnia. Insomnia is a sleeping disorder, where one has difficulty sleeping at nights. The body's biological clock is hammered due to lack of sleep. The body carries out its regular cellular maintenance when one is asleep. One suffers from stress, lethargy, fatigue, acidity, headaches and irritability when deprived of the regular rest period.

One or two nights of sleeplessness is experienced by everyone, but if this happens on a regular basis then it may be due to some underlying cause. Chronic insomnia is often a symptom of some other condition like depression, heart disease, sleep apnea, diabetes, lung disorders or hot flashes. It is wise to seek medical help when facing regular insomnia.

There are many allopathic medications that are prescribed by medical practitioners or over the counter drugs, that are available to combat insomnia. But, these medications have many side effects and become an addiction. There are many natural sleep secrets that can cure insomnia. These natural sleep remedies for adults help you sleep without being addicted to them. Learning about the natural remedies to help you sleep will be beneficial, as it will help you decide between allopathic remedies and natural remedies.

Chronic insomnia can get some relief with natural remedies for sleep. I have tried to list few of the best natural sleep aids in this article.

Natural Remedies for Sleep

Valerian: This is one of the best cure for insomnia. It has been used as a natural remedy for sleep for many years. It is non-addictive and does not cause morning grogginess. It has become an over the counter insomnia remedy in many countries like Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium and Italy. Valerian should be taken at least one hour before bedtime. It takes at least two to three weeks to work. You should not use Valerian for more than 3 months as it may cause many side effects. Side effects of Valerian include indigestion, headache, palpitations and dizziness. You should consult a qualified medical practitioner before using Valerian as it should not be taken along with other medications like sedatives and antihistamines.

Melatonin: This is another natural remedy for sleep. It helps people fall asleep when their sleeping cycle has been disturbed like people working in shifts or with jet lag. It is a naturally occurring hormone found in the body. This natural sleep aid should be taken 30 minutes before bedtime. It should not be used by people suffering from depression, schizophrenia, autoimmune diseases and pregnant and nursing women.

Ayurvedic Remedies: The natural remedies to help sleep according to Ayurveda is taking the following herbs with milk or water thrice daily:
Bacopa Monrnera 500 mg- 1 gram
Acorus Calamus 500 mg- 1 gram.

Vitamin B: Another natural remedy to help you sleep is Vitamin B complex. Vitamin B complex is a group of essential eight vitamins that are required for various metabolic process. Deficiency of Vitamin B complex may lead to sleep problems. Therefore, intake of Vitamin B complex supplements may help in getting sleep.

Tryptophan: This is one of the best cure for insomnia. It is found in soy proteins, turkey, milk and almonds. These food products can be eaten as a bedtime snack. Vitamin B-6 helps convert tryptophan into serotonin, a sleep inducing neurotransmitter.

Calcium and Magnesium: Calcium is a natural tranquilizer. Calcium and Magnesium deficiency leads to muscle spasms, cramps, anxiety, irritability, insomnia and headaches. Magnesium deficiency can also cause heart palpitations and constipation.

Chamomile: This mild herb that has a tranquilizing action similar to some drugs. Do not use Chamomile for long periods without a break. People who are allergic to ragweed should avoid consuming it.

Yoga: Yoga exercises lead to a calming effect and help promote sleep. You can try various yogas like power yoga or Ashtanga three times a week, before bedtime to promote sleep. You can perform the corpse pose on your bed to help you fall asleep.

You can try these natural sleep aids to overcome insomnia. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, smoking, long afternoon naps and fast paced stimulating music before going to sleep. If you love music then play a soft, soothing rhythm and take a warm bath before sleep. Clear your head of all the tension and stress before going to bed. These natural remedies do not work instantly but help decrease sleep problems gradually. Consult a medical practitioner before trying any of these natural remedies for sleep. These natural sleep aids will definitely lead to a good night sleep.