Getting a good night’s sleep is important. Most of us spend about 26 years of our lives sleeping. So it’s essential to support sleep so that our bodies can repair and bounce back. Using herbal supplements is an excellent way to help your body sleep better at night. Of course, it’s also important to follow proper sleep habits, such as turning off the light before bed. But if you’re still having trouble sleeping, try using the best herbs for sleep.
Valerian root
The Valerian plant is native to Asia, Europe, and the United States. It has long been valued for its floral aroma, used in perfumes. Its roots, however, have long been regarded as medicinal. The plant’s root has a robust earthy odor, and the powerful oils it contains are responsible for its sedative effect. Valerian is known to help relieve restless leg syndrome, an uncomfortable condition in which a person experiences an irresistible urge to move their legs while lying down. The herb is also effective in reducing restless leg syndrome, which affects up to 10% of the population.
One study conducted by Mennini T. examined the benefits of Valerian root on sleep. She found that it helped people enter deep sleep, also known as slow-wave sleep. During this time, the body recharges itself, and the brain sorts through information to improve cognitive functioning. People who enter this sleep state are more likely to wake up feeling rested and focused the following day. Valerian root is believed to enhance the quality of sleep and increase the percentage of deep sleep.
Chamomile flower
The dried heads of chamomile flowers are a rich source of medicinal benefits. This flower has been used for centuries to treat various ailments and was revered in Ancient Egypt for its calming properties. This flower is still used in beauty products and is a popular ingredient in many face washes and hair oils. In addition, chamomile’s antimicrobial properties are beneficial for many health problems, including colds, flu, and even some types of cancer.
The chamomile flower contains apigenin, a compound that binds to receptors in the brain that promote sleep. One study found that 270 mg of chamomile extract reduced the amount of time it took to fall asleep and wake up. In addition, women suffering from postpartum depression reported improved sleep after chamomile tea consumption, and chamomile tea helped them cope with the symptoms of their depression.
Melissa officinalis
One recent study found that the best herbs for sleep Melissa officinalis improved sleep by decreasing insomnia symptoms. The researchers studied the effectiveness of the herbal supplement on patients with mild to moderate anxiety and sleep disturbance. Results showed that it reduced insomnia symptoms by 42% and that 95% of the subjects responded favorably. They also found that 70% of patients achieved complete remission for both anxiety and insomnia.