What are herbs to aid sleep?

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• PASSION FLOWER- This herb eases anxiety-induced insomnia. It's very calming and eases muscle spasms that can be very painful and keep you awake. One warning: Passion flower can cause sleepiness, so it would be advisable to avoid driving for a few hours after use.
• PEPPERMINT- Used as a tea, it eases digestion, relieves gas and helps with insomnia. Don't take peppermint if you are on iron supplements as it tends to interfere with the absorption of iron.
• RED CLOVER- Take as a tea for inner cleansing.
  
  
  It has been used for years as a spring tonic. It's also very relaxing. It has been mentioned as a cure for cancer but talk to your doctor before using it for this purpose.
• REISHI MUSHROOM- Another surprising entry on a list of herbal remedies, but the Chinese have long known that his strange looking mushroom eases anxiety and calms the nervous system. A common ingredient in Chinese cookery, it is also a help for those with insomnia. Some research has been done as to its usefulness in AIDS treatment.
• SAGE- Good old garden variety sage eases depression and is good for the nerves. Use it when you cook the evening meal, or as a calming tea. The variety known as Clary works best.
• ST. JOHN'S WORT- This herb was named for St. John the Baptist who was beheaded. The red resin is said to resemble blood. St. John's wort is good for mild depression and anxiety, and it improves the quality of sleep. Although it has been shown to be poisonous to cattle, it is safe for human consumption of taken in the prescribed dosage. It can cause sensitivity to sunlight so avoid over -exposure. also, don't take St. John's wort if you are taking a medication that contains MAO inhibitors. This herb is being studied for possible use in HIV and AIDS treatment.
• SIBERIAN GINSENG- Unlike most of the other herbs I have mentioned, Siberian Ginseng gives you a lift. It's good for the treatment of depression, lethargy and chronic fatigue syndrome. Don't take this herb if you are already hyperactive or if you are suffering from nervous tension.. It should also be avoided by those suffering from hypertension (high blood pressure.)
• SPEARMINT- Spearmint is a great aid to digestion, and relieves gas. It has a calming effect on the entire body. A few drops on your pillow can be very soothing.
• THYME- Another common cooking herb, thyme is also excellent for treating nervous disorders and also respiratory problems. Try it as a tea or put a bit into your pillow.
• VALERIAN- This is probably the best known herbal remedy for sleeplessness. It eases both nervous tension and muscle tension. It's great for combating stress and relieving insomnia. Valerian tea is a natural sedative. High doses could cause paralysis and a weakened heartbeat, but used as the package suggests, and it is a very beneficial aid to sleep. It is known as the valium of the nineteenth century.
  WOOD BETONY- Because of its calming effect on the nervous system, Wood Betony is good for anyone suffering from Parkinson's disease. It's also great for calming anyone's nerves and promoting sleep. Use it as a substitute for black tea. The taste is very similar, but it contains no caffeine.

First answer by Jamesmcc. Last edit by ID1120036869. Question popularity: 8 [recommend question]