How to Treat Insomnia With Alternative Remedies
- 1). Eat a light snack at night, consisting of foods that are high in tryptophan. Tryptophan is an amino acid that is known to help reduce sleeplessness. It is found in foods like turkey, yogurt, bananas, tuna, whole grain crackers, figs and milk. Avoid greasy foods, high-fat foods, fried foods, cheese, sweets, chocolate and caffeine, as they will have an opposite effect on your sleep.
- 2). Sit down in a hot tub of water prior to heading for bed. A hot bath is relaxing and can aid in helping you to fall asleep more quickly. Add a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil to your bath water to make it even more relaxing.
- 3). Have a hot cup of valerian tea at bedtime. Valerian is an herb that comes from a plant found in Asia and Europe. The roots of the tree have been used since ancient times to treat health concerns, such as insomnia. Valerian can be obtained in tea form and is an effective way to help you fall asleep. Refrain from taking this herb if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or on prescription drugs for anxiety or sleep problems. Valerian should only be used for occasional bouts of insomnia, not for long-term use.
- 4). Take a 5 mg of melatonin 1/2 hour before you go to bed. Melatonin is a natural, sleep-inducing hormone that comes from serotonin. As we age, the level of melatonin is lowered and can contribute to insomnia. Supplementing with melatonin capsules can be beneficial. Long-term use is not advised. It should be used only occasionally. If you experience side effects, such as nausea, drowsiness during waking hours or headaches, you should discontinue using melatonin. It should not be taken by anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, has rheumatoid arthritis, is diabetic, epileptic or on antidepressants.
- 5). Consider homeopathic remedies that can help you get to sleep. These include Ignatia, Nux vomica, Lycopodium, Arsenicum and Coffea. Consult a homeopathic practitioner to help determine which of these remedies is best for you and to find out the proper strengths and dosage.
