Natural Insomnia Treatments

Insomnia is a sleeping disorder in which a person has trouble sleeping or falling and staying asleep on a regular basis. In the present days, more than 30 percent of the population is suffering from insomnia. Studies show that about 55 percent of people who are over 60 years old, frequently experience insomnia. This sleeping difficulty is more often a sign and symptom than a disease itself. Therefore, it is important to report this immediately so that medical experts will be able to identify whether there is an underlying pathological condition causing the sleeping difficulty. This disorder is more common in women, occurring 40 percent more often than in men. Insomnia is classified into three types, transient, acute and chronic insomnia. Difficulty falling asleep is often a symptom of anxiety disorders and clinical depression.

Possible risk factors for insomnia include the use of psychoactive stimulants, fluoroquinolone antibiotic drugs, hormone imbalances, disturbances in the circadian rhythm, abuse of over-the-counter medications or prescribed sleeping aids, poor sleep hygiene, and physical exercises especially to athletes. Certain medical conditions are associated with insomnia. These include Wittmaack–Ekbom syndrome, Periodic Limb Movement Disorder or PLMD, neurological disorders, history of traumatic brain injuries, rheumatoid and other forms of arthritis and thyroid problems. Psychological disorders like major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and dementia can cause insomnia. Nightmares, REM behavior disorder, sleepwalking, night terrors and other disruptive sleep events can usually lead to insomnia.

People suffering from insomnia can benefit from several natural insomnia treatments that have long been proven to be effective. Relaxation is known to effectively increase one’s sleeping hours. Relaxation techniques can also help a person fall asleep easier and faster. People who are more relaxed are more likely to feel energetic and well rested when they wake up early in the morning. Some examples of relaxation techniques include guided imagery or visualization, meditation, yoga and progressive muscle relaxation. Herbal extracts can also be beneficial in insomniacs. Valerian is an herb which is used to manage insomnia. It has been widely used in certain countries including Italy, France, Germany and Switzerland. Other herbs include chamomile extracts, kava, lemon balm, ashwagandha, and passionflower. Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine are also helpful in people who have difficulties in falling asleep.

Diet also plays a major role in managing symptoms of insomnia. It is important for people who are suffering from this sleeping disorder to consume healthier foods. Caffeine must be avoided as well, together with cigarette smoking cessation. A diet high in carbohydrates such as whole grain breads and cereals before bedtime can help the person fall asleep in no time. However, it is important to keep in mind that food which contains high amounts of sugar should be avoided. People can also benefit from consuming magnesium-rich foods. Music is also considered as an effective insomnia treatment, especially slow and relaxing music. Other common natural treatments for insomnia are acupuncture, aromatherapy, exercise, and acupuncture.