Herbal Teas as Natural Insomnia Remedies

There are a number of herbs that have a history of medicinal use as sleep aids. These can be used as natural insomnia remedies. They are less harsh than over-the-counter sleeping pills, which contain antihistamines, or prescription sleeping pills.

Herbal teas made with certain herbs are great natural insomnia remedies. Some herbs that are commonly used for insomnia include:

·         Chamomile,  a plant in the daisy family that is often used to make tea

·         Hops, a plant that is also used in brewing beer. It contains a chemical called dimethylvinyl carbinol, which may promote relaxation and sleep

·         Valerian, a plant whose roots are often used as a sleep aid

·         Passion flower, a common herbal tea ingredient that may have a relaxing effect

All of these plants can be used as natural insomnia remedies in the form of herbal teas.

4 Herbal Teas for Use as Natural Insomnia Remedies

Tea #1: “Sweet Sleep Blend”

(Source: http://www.livingherbaltea.com/herbal-tea-for-insomnia/)

Ingredients:

·         2 parts Chamomile

·         1 part Catnip

·         1 part Peppermint, Rose Petals, or Lemon Balm

·         1 pinch of Valerian Root

Recipe:

“Combine herbs to create one heaping teaspoon. Steep in a typical mug of just-boiling water for 6 minutes.”

Tea #2: “Bedtime Herbal Tea”

(Source: http://www.etsy.com/listing/93290148/bedtime-herbal-tea)

Ingredients:

·         Chamomile flowers

·         Lemon blam

·         Catnip

·         Oatstraw

·         Passion flower

·         Valerian root

·         Hops flowers

Recipe:

Use 1 tsp of herbs per cup of water.

Tea #3: “Herbal Bedtime Tea”

(Source: http://frugallysustainable.com/2013/04/a-recipe-for-herbal-bedtime-tea-an-all-natural-sleep-aid/)

Ingredients:

·         3 parts chamomile flowers

·         2 parts lemon balm

·         1 part catnip

·         1 part oatstraw

·         1 part passionflower

·         ¼ part hops flowers

·         ¼ part valerian root

Recipe:

1. Measure parts of each herb listed and mix in a large bowl until well combined.

2. Use a tea infuser, tea strainer, or teapot to brew a pot or cup.

3. Keep stored in a cool, dark place for approximately 6 months.

4. This tea is mild enough to be used nightly. Take a cup 30 minutes before bed.

Tea #4: “Chamomile and Lemon Balm Tea”

(Source: http://www.sipandom.com/sip-tea/insomnia-tea-chamomile-lemon-balm/)

Ingredients:

·         1 cup (240 mL) water

·         2 tsp (10 mL) lemon balm

·         1 tsp (5 mL) dried chamomile

·         1 tsp (5 mL) honey

Recipe:

“Bring the water to a boil in the saucepan. Make sure the water isn’t boiling too much, or else you might scorch the herbs.

Add the dried herbs to the saucepan. Cover with a lid so the precious oils don’t escape in the steam.

Steep the herbs for about 10 to 15 minutes to receive the full benefit of their healing attributes.

Pour into your favorite tea cup and enjoy sipping this tea just before you drift off to sleep.”

Herbal teas make excellent natural insomnia remedies. Several herbs are known for having effects that can help you sleep; two of the most potent and well-known of these are valerian root and chamomile. For insomnia that isn’t frequent enough or severe enough to warrant antihistamines or prescription sleep medications, herbal teas can be a delicious and very effective way to help yourself get a good night’s sleep.

NEUROFEEDBACK FOR INSOMNIA