Today there are many different options that one can use to help you sleep and many who do suffer from insomnia choose to use natural sleep aids and herbs as an alternative option to prescription sleep aids. If you do decide on taking an herbal remedy, you must first inform your doctor, as there are certain herbal medications that shouldn’t be mixed with certain drugs, especially over the counter sleep aids.
Valerian Root has a long history of being used as a calmative and sleep aid. It has helped patients who suffer from a mild case of insomnia. When taking valerian root, been mindful that it can interact with some prescription medications, including antidepressants, anxiety drugs, and even some medications for insomnia.
Some of the side effects associated with valerian root are:
Headaches
Stomach aches and indigestion
Restlessness
Chamomile tea has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health problems including sleeplessness. Germans are so fond of chamomile tea that they call it “alles zutraut,” meaning “capable of anything”. Drinking chamomile tea has been reported to help promote a deep sleep and produce a soothing feeling of relaxation and calmness.
Some of the side effects of chamomile tea are:
It can cause dermatitis or other allergic reactions in some individuals
It can interfere with antiepileptic medications
If you take aspirin therapy or a blood thinning medication such as Coumadin, heparin, or even warfarin, then don’t take it, as it can cause an increase in bleeding and haemorrhaging when taken.
There are many other herbs and remedies on the market that are touted as being great sleep remedies. Before deciding on replacing your existing sleep medication with an alternative form, make sure you first consult your doctor, to prevent any potential health problems.