One natural sleeping aid which a person may use is Valerian. Valeriana officinalis is one of the remedies which an individual may buy over the counter in Belgium, Italy, Switzerland, France, and Germany. Aside from its effectiveness, it is also known as one of the safe remedies to occasional sleeplessness. Patients attest that they have better sleep and rest as well as feel more relieved after taking Valerian. It is available in capsule form as well as tea and liquid extracts. This aid is taken usually between an hour before one goes to sleep and requires a minimum of two to three weeks before it works. If one does not like Valerian, he may also drink chamomile tea which is also known for helping a person fall asleep.
Another natural sleeping aid which one may try is Melatonin. It is a hormone which one can find in the body. It comes from the serotonin created by the brain’s pineal gland. The serotonin can only be converted into melatonin when there is a decrease to the exposure of light or during night time. So blind people as well as persons who live in areas where there is extended sunlight hours finds difficulty in producing the so called “sleep hormone.” To attain healthy sleep, these people who experience a disturbance in the sleep/wake cycle, may take melatonin supplements 30 minutes before they go to bed.
Aside from the aids mentioned, one may also use the relaxation technique as a natural sleeping aid. He may try Yoga, Mindfulness, Progressive Muscle Relaxation, or Relaxation Response which may help him fall asleep quicker and longer. Changing one’s diet may also help.