Many theories abound regarding the range of natural sleep remedies. Although not all of them are really valid, some of them could not be. The reason for this is the ‘placebo effect’. This is the idea of an individual believing him or herself to be getting better or cured and the mind healing the body. Now this may seem far fetched, but experts believe that around 80 percent of any drug or treatments effectiveness is due to the placebo effect.
This now puts a whole new spin on any natural remedies for any complaint including sleep problems or disorders. One can start by enquiring where exactly the problem with getting a restful night of sleep. Insomnia, or chronic lack of sleep is not a condition or disease in itself, but a symptom of a much deeper problem or sickness.
This can be anything from depression, high blood pressure due to or nervous tension to everyday anxieties. Thus whenever wanting to change your treatment from a normal medication based treatment to a natural it is always a good idea to consult your doctor.
The question therefore is why can’t a person sleep? Is it to much stress at work, anxiety from a sickness or family problems. One the problem is identified you can then begin to treat the cause rather than the symptom.
As an example, stress from work can be alleviated through a good exercise regimen. Cortisol, a stress hormone can build up in the bloodstream and cause hypertension which can cause all sorts of problems long term, but problems with lack of sleep short term. A great way to get rid of the cortisol is through a good session of medium, to intense exercise.
Diet is another natural way to deal with a sleep deficiency problem. Avoid high caffeine foods and drinks like coffee, regular tea and chocolate. Avoid excess use of simple sugars that cause uneven blood fluctuations and eat complex carbohydrates like whole grains that contain the amino acid tryptophan which release of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is a precursor of melatonin.
Melatonin, which is a neurotransmitter, sends a message which your body interprets as the time to go to sleep. It is also very good for as a supplement when a person’s sleep cycle has been disturbed in a situation when one’s work shift has been changed or when one has jet lag.
Herbal supplements may help, but as noted earlier, this could just be a placebo effect, even up to 80 percent. It is probably far better to focus on developing good lifestyle habits which in the long run will benefit you much more than a quick fix.
For a complete online guide with 20 pages of natural sleep remedies, click here.
