Insomnia Support Group
Insomnia is a symptom, rather than a disease, and is characterized by inadequate quantity or quality of sleep. People with insomnia complain of difficulty falling or staying asleep, which results in significant impairment of daytime functioning. Insomnia is categorized as transient (shorter than one week), short-term (one to three weeks) or chronic (longer than three...
I've tried about every natural sleep aid (altavil, melatonin, calms forte,
somnapure, etc)
and none seem to help. I am now trying valerian root and wonder if that will work.
Has anyone had any success with any others?
As octogenarian maybe that is part of my sleep problem, and the other problems that arrive with aging.
somnapure, etc)
and none seem to help. I am now trying valerian root and wonder if that will work.
Has anyone had any success with any others?
As octogenarian maybe that is part of my sleep problem, and the other problems that arrive with aging.
Valerian root and melatonin are the two "natural" supplements recommended most often. For those dealing with an underlying medical issue disrupting sleep, these might be worth a try as an alternative to an Rx or other type of sleeping pill with many more side effects.
Also read tart cherry juice (specifically that of the montmorency cherry) also can help for some.
In the case of valerian and cherry juice, these substances need to be consumed for several weeks before you may see some benefit.
Melatonin for many people is more immediate, but also has shown mixed results. Helps for some, doesn't for others. It's typically used for jet lag and circadian rhythm disorders.
As for aging, first congrats on getting that far '-). Really important to continue the nondrug simple sorts of lifestyle things you can do to strengthen your sleep system.
These include keeping a consistent sleep schedule and minimizing any naps. Sleep 3 hours one afternoon, don't expect to sleep too well that night.
Keep exercising, and keep yourself stimulated mentally, and supported socially. All these kinds of things help sleep.
I tried this for a short time, but not for long. 1)Tart cherries live up to their name and many will find the juice to tart. 2) It is expensive, but easy to find at your grocery store in the juice section. 3) Too much sugar.
A better alternative is tart cherry capsules that are available online and maybe locally.
One other benefit of tart cherries is that they are known to be an effective anti-inflammatory type of natural medication.
http://www.brownwoodacres.com/cherryflex-softgels.html