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Should I Begin Using Herbal Sleep Aids

Individuals suffering from problems with getting to sleep and staying asleep throughout the nighttime probably feel that sleep inducing medications would solve all of their problems. There are some things that ought to be considered ahead of taking any prescription drugs. The effectiveness and safety of sleeping pills can vary widely and they are generally meant to be a temporary solution to lack of sleep. For many individuals merely changing a couple of factors in their day-to-day living style and the use of herbal sleeping aids might help them sleep. Using sleeping pills will surely have unwanted side effects.

Sleeping pills only treat the symptoms of insomnia and will not be a cure for it. The reasons for insomnia are many and having a sleeping pill only masks the problem. Most of the medications used in sleeping pills will surely have serious negative effects that include absentmindedness and confusion, dry mouth and drowsiness during the daytime after use. Many people build up a tolerance to these drugs and have to keep increasing their dose. Many people can become dependant on the sleeping tablet medication and suffer from withdrawal symptoms like shaking, sweating and nausea if the medication is stopped for any reason.

The powerful medications used in many sleeping pills can interact with any other medications that an individual might be taking. This could increase unwanted side effects of the sleeping pills and could perhaps pose a danger to people's health when they interact with other sedatives or prescription painkillers. With long term usage of the sleeping pills, it is possible that an even worse insomnia problem will return if ever the medication is stopped. Sleeplessness could be caused by serious physiological or psychological medical problems that has to be addressed and that could be masked by the use of sleeping pills.

Herbal sleep aids are a great alternative to sleeping pills. These are safe to use for extended periods and are all-natural and holistic. Melatonin is a hormone made by the body in order to encourage sleep. Few people have a deficiency in this hormone, especially as they get older. Having a melatonin supplement can make up for this and help you sleep well. Herbal sleep aids have been used since the time of the ancient Egyptians and have verified to be both safe and effective over the centuries. Herbal tea prepared by using chamomile is a traditional folk remedy for sleeplessness.

Valerian is another herbal sleep aid that has a long history of use and was often grown in medieval monasteries for use as a sedative and sleeping potion. Valerian herb was found to be more helpful when used for an extended period of time, making it the best choice for those suffering from chronic insomnia. Passionflower is yet another herbal remedy that has long been used for therapeutic purposes as well as a sleep aid. Kava is produced from roots of a plant grown in the South Pacific and is an excellent soothing and sleep inducing agent. Lemon balm also induces sleep.

By: Sean Saunders