Insomnia
Insomnia, characterized by habitual sleeplessness, affects most everyone at some time in their lives. It can take the form of not being able to fall asleep at bedtime, or waking in the night and not being able to fall asleep again. Inability to get a full nights' sleep on most nights during one month is considered chronic insomnia. Most of the time it is temporary and harmless. In rare cases, chronic insomnia can be a symptom of a serious underlying condition.
Over half of the cases of sleeplessness can be attributed to depression, and psychological disorders like stress, anxiety, or grief. Other common causes include: Breathing problems. Hypoglycemia. Pain. Too much caffeine. Jet lag. Some prescription drugs can lead to insomnia: Antidepressants, anti seizure meds, appetite suppressants, bet-blockers, decongestants, and some thyroid medications. People who are over 60 years old and women going through menopause are more prone to insomnia, probably due to decreased levels of melatonin in the brain. Nutritional Deficiencies A lack of adequate calcium, and magnesium can result in waking up several hours after falling asleep, and it may be hard to get back to sleep. Adequate amounts of amino acids must be consumed in order for the body to produce enough sleep inducing hormones. Useful Supplements for Insomnia Melatonin s a natural substance made by the pineal gland located in the brain. Adequate melatonin levels help to establish healthy sleep patterns. It is released primarily during the night. Melatonin levels decrease as we get older. 5HTP helps balance seratonin levels, which can be quite effective for treating insomnia. GABBA, an amino acid produced in the brain, helps regulate functions such as sleep, body temperature and the activity of the pituitary gland. GABA may increase the body's sleeping cycle, according to studies, thereby producing a calmer and more restful night's sleep. calcium, and magnesium supplements may be helpful in restoring healthy sleep patterns. Useful Herbs for Insomnia Valerian reduces sleep latency, the time required to fall asleep, without a period of bedtime drowsiness and without creating a "hangover" or grogginess the next morning. Valerian has greatest effect in treating chronic insomnia, rather than short-term sleeplessness. Kava is a mild sedative with relaxant properties and has been administered for insomnia due to to nervousness, tension, cramping, and stress. Passionflower is used as a callmative sleep aid which relaxes muscles, and eases nervous tension. Hops is a strong sedative heb that may be useful for temporary symptoms of insomnia. Catnip is a good choice for sleeplessness in children - especially when it is due to illness or fevers. Chamomile has long been used by herbalists to safely invoke deep sleep, and soothe spasms and tension. Another good choice for wee ones. Professional Formulas Native Remedies makes a wonderful Natural Formula for Insomnia and Sleeping Disorders that many people find very effective. Related articles Prescription Meds – Are the Potential Side Effects Worth the Risk?
The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.
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