Home Remedies for Sleeping Disorders

At some point, we all experience nights when we find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.  Usually these bouts of sleeplessness, or insomnia, only last a short time and we quickly return to our normal sleep patterns.  However, for some, insomnia can become a chronic condition which can lead to physical and emotional health problems such as high blood pressure and depression.  One avenue of treatment is to look for home remedies for sleeping disorders that may occur from time to time.

Although there are many prescription medications today to treat the symptoms of insomnia many people are choosing to try home remedies for sleep disorders first.  The home remedies listed below may provide relief from your symptoms and help you get a good night's sleep.

Create a favorable sleeping environment

Your bedroom should be an area that is conducive to peaceful and restful sleep.  Remove stimulants that can keep you from falling asleep such as extra lighting or a television.  Make sure that the bedroom is a comfortable temperature and isn't excessively warm or cold.  Light blocking blinds can help to keep unwanted light from streaming in from the outside. Some people find a little white noise may help them to fall asleep.  The sound of a small fan or a soothing CD may help to relax you.

Herbal Teas

Herbal teas have long been touted as having healing properties for several types of health conditions.  They can also be good home remedies for sleeping disorders. Chamomile tea contains the amino acid glycine which acts as a nerve relaxant.  Lavender tea is made from the root of the valerian plant which is known for it's calming effects.  Having a hot cup of tea before bedtime can prepare the body for a relaxing sleep. Be careful however to not drink too much liquid before bed as this can cause you to be awakened in middle of the night and you may find it difficult to fall back to sleep.

Avoid Stimulants 

Prepare your body for sleep by avoiding stimulants such as caffeinated drinks including soda or coffee before bedtime. Strenuous exercise should be avoided at least 3 hours before bedtime.  Activities designed to relax the body such as yoga or meditation are acceptable and may even prepare you body for restful sleep.  Avoid eating fatty, heavy meals late in the day.  These foods can cause heartburn or digestive discomfort which can disrupt sleep.


Melatonin is a hormone produced in the body that helps to control sleep patterns.  The natural levels of melatonin are normally higher at night causing us to become sleepy and needing rest to rejuvenate the body.  However, medical research has suggested that as we age our natural melatonin levels may decrease causing increased sleep disorders.  A well known home remedy for sleep disorders is adding a melatonin supplement to your daily routine may help to increase the melatonin levels in your body and to regulate your sleep patterns.  Always check with your doctor before adding any dietary supplement to your diet so that they can determine if the supplement is right for you and suggest the correct dosage.

If home remedies do not work and sleep still eludes you it may be time to seek professional help from your physician.  He will be able to determine if your sleep disorder is something more serious and needs medical treatment.

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