Stress and Insomnia Herbal Remedies

Stress is a common problem today and it leads to a number of other problems, including insomnia. A class of herbs called nervines or calmatives have been used for many years to calm the nerves, promote sleep which can reduce stress and insomnia. Following are some examples of herbal calmatives that can reduce stress and induce a night of peaceful sleep.

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): This is one of the most well-known and popular calmatives. It is a gentle herb with small flowers like daisies. These flowers are dried and made into tea to calm the nerves and help those who drink it sleep. It can even be used to help with digestive difficulties.

Hops (Humulus lupulus): This is a very powerful herbal sedative. Hops can be used by those having trouble sleeping, or simply by anyone suffering general anxiety. A combination of hops, passion flower, and valerian, made into a tea or tincture taken half an hour before bed can promote a restful night.

Kava Kava (Piper methysticum): Kava is good when taken just right before bed if it used for insomnia, or during the day to help with stress and anxiety. It is also an analgesic and can soothe menstrual cramps and muscle aches. Never use kava with alcohol or prescription drugs, especially calmatives, as the herb can intensify the effect of these drugs.

Lavender (Lavandula officinalis or Lavandula angustifolia): The scent alone had a calmative effect. Just inhaling lavender can bring a feeling of calm. The dried flowers can also be used in herbal tea blends. Try adding a few drops of lavender essential oil to a hot bath for a relaxing experience.

Lemon Balm (Melissa offcinalis): This is a member of the mint family, which means it has a lovely scent. Tea made from the leaves of lemon balm will relax the drinker. It can also help with indigestion.

Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata): The purple flowers of this vine are often found in gardens. Passion flowers can also be used for sedative purposes. It can be brewed as tea to alleviate restlessness and agitation, as well as relief from cramps and muscle twitches. Combined with valerian and taken as a tincture before bedtime, it can combat insomnia as well.

Skullcap (Scultellaria lateriflora): The flowers of this plant are skull-shaped, hence the name. This is an excellent general calmative that affects the whole nervous system. Tea made from a combination of skullcap and lavender can be used to reduce anxiety and nervous tension.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): Valerian root is a powerful sedative that can be used as a sleep aid as well as a remedy to reduce muscle spasms. This herb is usually made into a tincture, sometimes along with hops and passion flower. It is a powerful sedative, which means it should not be used with prescription drugs that treat insomnia or anxiety.

The active components of herbs can be very potent and can interact with any medication you can be currently taking. Always consult your doctor or other health care professional before taking an herbal remedy to prevent any adverse reactions. Pregnant or nursing women should also avoid herbal remedies.

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