5 Herbal Remedies for Restful Sleep

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Sleep: You don't miss it until you don't have it. If you're struggling to experience a full 8 hours of sleep each night, here are some natural remedies that may help.

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Lavender Essential Oil
Rub a drop of lavender essential oil into the bottom of each foot. It's so simple but it really works! I've been doing it every night for about two weeks. It's consistently hard for me to keep my eyes open about 30 minutes after doing this. I also sleep more soundly. (This tip comes from my friend Laura at Green Living Ladies.)

Passion Flower
Herbalists in Mexico, Central America, and Texas have used passion flower as a calmative and sleeping aid for over 200 years. Currently there is a German E monograph for passion flower citing its use as having sedative qualities. You can take 2-5 g of the herbal remedy as a tea, 3-5 times a day. Spread your cups throughout the day and have one a half-hour before going to bed. Pregnant women should avoid passion flower, since it can stimulate uterine contractions. (Source 1 & 2)

Valerian Root 
Valerian root has been used medicinally for over 2000 years. It is traditionally used to support healthy sleep and relaxation, though clinical trials regarding its efficacy have shown mixed results. When combined with hops, valerian root has been approved by the German Commission E to support healthy sleep. (Source)

Oat Straw
The German government also commissioned oat straw extract as an effective herbal remedy for anxiety and stress. This is most likely due to the high Vitamin B complex content contained within the herb. Oat straw's calming qualities strengthens nerves and encourages a restful night's sleep. (Source)

Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm is a member of the mint family, possessing a pleasant aroma, strikingly similar to that of lemon. The herb can grow to nearly five feet tall, producing small white flowers. The Latin name "Melissa" translates to "bee," referring to the plant's ability to attract honeybees and other insects. The German Commission E has approved lemon balm for supporting a calm and healthy sleep. (Source)

Watch this YouTube video to learn how to make a relaxing herbal bedtime tea. 

Order the essential oils & herbs mentioned above from Mountain Rose Herbs using this affiliate link and earn Karmic huggles.

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