Insomnia
Sleep can, for some, be all too elusive. Sometimes the day’s events, or particular worries, cause us to stay “switched on”, instead of being able to fall asleep naturally. This can become a vicious circle as anxiety about insomnia makes it worse.
Symptoms
- difficulty falling asleep
- waking up during the night
- waking up early in the morning
- feeling irritable and tired and finding it difficult to function during the day
Causes
- Worries and anxieties
- Excitement
- Restlessness – going over the day’s events.
- Other ailments
- Pain
You will typically need supplements to help calm you down, and promote natural sleep, however, the first question we need to ask is: “Are you on any medication?”
This is a condition where sufferers are commonly prescribed sleeping tablets, so it is essential that we first establish whether you are currently taking any. This is important so that any products you use will not interfere in any way with any other medication being taken. If medication is being taken, you must speak to your Doctor.
Supplements that may help relieve insomnia
Valerian Root or other relaxing herbal blends are very important if stress is a factor Valerian Root Capsules are a traditional herbal medicinal supplement used for the temporary relief of symptoms of mild anxiety and to aid sleep. The effect of valerian root is usually to promote a deeper, more restful sleep, from which you will awake to feel refreshed and not groggy.
- Other sleeping herbs include Passiflora, Lemon Balm, Catnip and Hops, which you may find on their own or in combinations, typically alongside valerian root.
- Lavender Oil is very relaxing, and a few drops at the bedside can help induce sleep
Supplements that may help to prevent insomnia
- Vitamin B Complex contributes to the normal function of the nervous system. This means it may help support cases of stress and low mood. Insomnia is often related to stressful lifestyles, which makes B Complex supplements popular for disturbed sleep.
- Vitamin C contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system. It appears to help normalise levels of stress hormone, which makes it useful for anyone dealing with stressful situations, or prone to stress-related ailments. In particular, Vitamin C may help balance the release of the stress hormone Cortisol, during conditions of mental and physical stress.
- Magnesium contributes to the normal function of the nervous system.
- Calcium contributes to normal muscle function.
Homeopathic remedies
- Aconite
- Arnica
- Belladonna
- Ignatia;
- Cal carb
- Sulphur
Aromatherapy Oils
- Clary Sage
- Patchouli
- Sandalwood
- Rose
- Ylang Ylang
- Myrrh
- Jasmine
- Cedarwood
- Rosewood
- Marjoram
Lavender Oil may be very soothing and relaxing for insomniacs, it can be used as a massage before bedtime, put in the bath, on the pillow or bedclothes (although may cause staining), or it can be used on a warm radiator before you go to sleep.
Recommended lifestyle changes
- The caffeine found in coffee and tea can aggravate insomnia, as it is a stimulant. Recommend that these drinks should not be consumed after 4 pm, and offer alternatives such as:
- Herbal Teas (especially Chamomile, Night-time, and Valerian);
- Coffee substitutes Eg Caro, Barley Cup – make excellent night time drinks.
