Sleep Health

Alternative Treatments for Insomnia

Dealing with insomnia can be a struggle.  You consider trying sleeping pills, but you are concerned about its fatal side effects.  However, there are other therapies available in coping with the lack of sleep.

Herbal supplements

Nature has provided herbs to cure a variety of health problems and diseases.  In the case of insomnia, valerian root and chamomile are commonly used.  However, more research is needed about the safety and effectiveness of valerian for insomnia.

Melatonin

It is a hormone made by a gland in the brain.  Although the effects of melatonin are little known, its role in regulating sleep has been significant.  Melatonin supplements have been studied as a possible treatment for circadian rhythm disorders and may also be helpful in decreasing sleep disturbances caused by jet lag.

Acupuncture

A traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for hundreds of years as treatment for a variety of ailments including insomnia.  This procedure involves the insertion of very fine needles into the skin at specific acupuncture points in order to influence the functioning of the body.

Relaxation and meditation

Attempting to sleep with tensed muscles or intrusive thoughts would be futile.  Such problems should be dealt with appropriate treatments such as body massage or biofeedback for muscle tension, and meditation or Yoga for mind relaxation.

Exercise

Regular physical activity deepens sleep in young adults, even those with sleep disorders.  Exercise can range from low-to-moderate Tai Chi and Tibetan Yoga practices to hard cardio and strength training workouts.