Can’t recall when you last slept all night through? Read on, friend; you are not alone. One of the biggest issues facing our fast-paced, technology-driven culture is quality sleep. Did you know that lack of restful sleep could lead to…
And these are just a few things attributed to lack of sleep.
Many of us reach for the over-the-counter sleep medications, and if sleep deprived enough, prescription drugs. But both OTC or prescription sleep aids can lead to even more unwanted effects, such as addiction, uncontrollable shaking, and mental impairment.[2] And all of this comes on top of the foggy brain and distress from sleep deprivation.
So let’s explore some plant-derived sleep aids that can soothe and lull the body as you slip off into restful, peaceful sleep without all those side effects.
Better yet, there are many different ways you can administer your plant-based sleep aids. Teas, tinctures, and infusions are ideal when working with herbs for healthy sleep. Adding a blend of soothing essential oils to the bath, into a diffuser, or in an aromatic inhaler is also very effective. Relaxing essential oils can also be used in DIY lotions, creams, or sprays that can be applied before bed.
Here is a list of 24 essential oils and herbs that have been shown to support healthy, normal sleep patterns.
Of course, if you are suffering from insomnia or are currently taking prescription medication, you should consult with a trusted healthcare provider, Registered Aromatherapist, or herbal practitioner before beginning a natural medicine routine.
Want to learn more about these herbs and oils? You just might love what you’ll learn in our accredited online classes: AROMA 101: Introduction to Aromatherapy and HERB 101: Basics of Herbalism
When it comes to the therapeutic action of natural sleep aids, it is the unique constituent combination within the botanicals that make them effective, but usually one stands out.
With lavender L. angustifolia and bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia essential oils, the ester linalyl acetate is the standout constituent that provides the soothing and sedating effect.
In the herb valerian V. officinalis, the bornyl acetate is the main actor providing the soothing, sedative qualities with support from lesser-known players.
Another unique constituent combination of numerous bitter principles and essential oil is found in hops H. lupulus, lupulin—the tiny, yellow pollen-like granules you can see all over the hop flowers (also known as strobiles)—is thought to be responsible for the soothing effects.
Other herbs such as California poppy E. californica pack a more powerful valium-like punch with alkaloid combinations such as californine and protopine. Preliminary research in California poppy suggests the ability to support and extend natural, healthy sleep.[3]
Ready to get started with these wonderful natural sleep aids? Stay tuned for my next blog post on natural sleep support, which will include three recipes for restful, calmed, and rejuvenating sleep.
Sweet dreams!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I am the President and Founder of American College of Healthcare Sciences, the Institution that publishes this blog. However, all opinions are my own. This blog may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. This article has not been reviewed by the FDA. Always consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.
[1] Sleep loss: 10 surprising effects. (2005). Retrieved March 21, 2016, from WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/excessive-sleepiness-10/10-results-sleep-loss
and Milanmarkovic, & Fotolia. (2016, March 21). Losing 30 minutes of sleep per day may promote weight gain and adversely affect blood sugar control. Retrieved March 21, 2016, from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/03/150306082541.htm
[2] Understanding the side effects of sleeping pills. (2005). Retrieved March 21, 2016, from WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/understanding-the-side-effects-of-sleeping-pills
[3] Paul LD, Springer D, Staack RF, et al. Cytochrome P450 isoenzymes involved in rat liver microsomal metabolism of californine and protopine. Eur J Pharmacol 2004;485:69-79.
Paul LD, Maurer HH. Studies on the metabolism and toxicological detection of the Eschscholtzia californica alkaloids californine and protopine in urine using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2003;789:43-57.
Rolland A, Fleurentin J, Lanhers MC, et al. Behavioural effects of the American traditional plant Eschscholzia californica: sedative and anxiolytic properties. Planta Med 1991;57:212-6.