Certain plants can be used to remedy sleeplessness. Linden, balm, orange, verbena and valerian won’t do you any harm. But what about the others?
According to an article published in France in the journal Revue Prescrire, some plants are to be avoided.
In fact, there are no studies available that can guarantee them to be harmless.
But this is not true of linden, balm, orange and verbena which “appear to be free of toxic effects.
Because of this, although their clinical effectiveness has never been evaluated, there is no reason why they should not be used in the form of infusions”.
Equally, there is no sound reason for spurning drugs based on hawthorn and passionflower”.
And valerian, in fact, has been used since ancient times and appears to have a modest degree of effectiveness on the quality of sleep experienced.
So if you suffer from chronic insomnia, you could always try these plants. Because the solution does not always come from chemical “crutches”.
However, it is also worth remembering that in June 2004, the WHO published some guiding principles aimed at regulating the use of traditional medicines.
And, if you want to get a good night’s sleep, think about how you spend your waking day. It will pay off.
Avoid exercising or taking a shower just before going to bed as this will raise your body temperature, which needs to be as low as possible.
The ideal temperature for a bedroom is 18°C. Eat a light evening meal: no fat, no alcohol.
Also avoid stimulants such as tea or coffee after 5 in the evening.
