More than 1.5 million Americans use complementary and herbal therapies to treat insomnia. There is no specific evidence that these dietary supplements or herbals do help in the condition of insomnia. However people have reported that it has helped them to overcome their insomnia problems. It is strongly advised that if patients choose to take herbals with other prescribed drugs for the same, they must inform their physicians about it.
Herbs and other supplements used to treat insomnia are:
Melatonin: This is the most researched natural remedy for insomnia. According to research findings it reduces the time required to fall asleep and also improves the time spent asleep. However, higher dose might keep people awake. Side effects: Disrupts the circadian cycle (the sleep and wake cycle of the brain), mental impairment, severe headache, nightmares.
Valerian root: An herb that has sedative qualities. Some studies support the fact that it improves insomnia but there has not been any specific well conducted study to prove the same.
Chamomile: A tea preparation people drink for its sedative properties. In most cases it is safe but people who have plant or pollen allergies could develop an allergic reaction to this tea.
Kava: Kava is a herb that is used by people due to its sedative properties. It has been reported unsafe as it causes damage to the liver. There have been cases of liver failure and even deaths reported due to the use of this herb. It is strongly not recommended to patients who have liver problems. This herb has dangerous interactions with alprazolam, which is an anti anxiety drug. It further enhances the effects of other drugs like other sleep medications, antidepressants, and alcohol.
Chinese herbal remedies: Research suggests that almost 30% of herbal plant remedies from China contain potent pharmaceuticals like phenacetin, steroids and toxic metals. Some of these herbs also contain benzodiazepines, one of the major components in prescription sleeping medication.
Related Links:
http://www.herbal-remedies-supplements.org/herbs-for-insomnia/
http://sleep-disorders.suite101.com/article.cfm/natural_sleep_aid_remedies_for_insomnia
http://www.medicinenet.com/sleep_aids_and_stimulants/page3.htm
Reference:
Saisan, J., Kemp,G.,Barston, S. (2008,July). Sleeping Pills, Sleeping aids, And Medications Prescription, OTC, And Natural Sleep Aids; What you need to know. Helpguide.org Understand, Prevent, and resolve life's challanges. Retrieved on 10th October, 2009 from
http://helpguide.org/life/sleep_aids_medication_insomnia_treatment.htm
WOW, I can't believe that sleeping pills can make you do suck strange and dangerous stuff live driving or walking around. That's crazy!! You figure you get a prescription from your doctor to help you go to sleep, you'd think that is exactly what you would do. I wouldn't mind if I got out of bed still sleeping to do laundry, dishes and clean my house. But all joking aside, this is serious and dangerous result that can happen. I've never even heard of it happening before either. I have trouble falling asleep too and I try not to take medications unless I really have to if I'm sick, so I use aromatherapy to help me relax and fall asleep. It's a really good alternative to taking medicines. Aromatherapy involves scented oils and other aromatic smells which I in my bedroom, they help with mood too. I buy a lavender and vanilla pillow spray from Bath and Body Works, smells so very good and I drift off to sleepy land on a nice scented cloud.
ReplyDeleteherbal medicine should always be approached with caution as they are not FDA regulated and can also cause side effects...
ReplyDeletevery informative post!