- CATNIP- Yes, this is the herb you're cats love, the one that makes them go a bit crazy. But don't worry. For humans, catnip is relaxing and great for the digestion. It's often used in insomnia formulas and as a sleep promoting tea.. It can even be smoked to promote relaxation, but smoking it can cause severe headaches.
- FLEECE FLOWER ROOT- A treatment for deficient blood syndrome manifested as sallow complexion, dizziness, vertigo, and insomnia.
- GOTU KOLA- This Asian herb has a calming effect and also improves the circulation. It is now recognized as being good for the nervous system.
- HOELEN- Another herb from the Orient. Hoelen is used in many Chinese Herbal Remedies for different maladies. It's noted for it's calming, soothing effect.
- HOPS- Hops, as a tea, is relaxing and calming. It's also relieves pain and aids digestion. It's not advised to take this herb, however, if you are depressed, as it is somewhat of a depressant.
- JASMINE- Best known as an aromatic oil. Put a few drops into the bath to help you relax. Used as a tea, it's a mild nerve sedative.
- JUJUBE (DA T'SAO)- The Chinese Jujube date. It relieves nervous tension and apprehension. Good for insomnia.
- KAVA KAVA- This member of the black pepper family helps give you a night of restful sleep. It's very relaxing. Long-term use isn't advised, however, as it can cause liver damage.
- LAVENDER- This is another herb known better as an aromatic oil. Use it in your nightly bath. Just a few drops will help to relax you and you'll sleep better. Taken in a tea, it helps to relieve anxiety.
- LEMON BALM- A tea made from lemon balm is great for the digestion and it relieves nervous tension. Try a cup at bedtime if you suffer from insomnia.
- MARSHMALLOW ROOT- This herb has nothing to do with the sugary blobs you roast over a campfire. It's a calming herb. Strong dosage might interfere with some of the drugs your doctor ordered from the pharmacy, so be sure you take them a few hours apart.
- OAT FIBER- You may be surprised to see this listed among herbal sleep remedies, but, surprisingly, it does help. Oat fiber is soothing to the digestion and to the nervous system. The easiest way to use it is to eat oatmeal every day. But begin with small helpings, as too much too fast can cause gas.
Herbs and Sleep
From Catnip to - - Oats?
From About.com
Updated: June 16, 2006
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