harvard insomnia research

Honey is thought to possess sleep inducing properties. Dark honey incorporates more antioxidants than lighter honey. Honey can be used either in herbal teas or mixed with warm milk.

Passion flower is a flowering plant that is indigenous to an area from the Brazil to Argentina and southeast US.

It gets its name from the fact that it reminded the early pilgrims of the passion of Christ.

Passion flower is often referred to as Maypops, Maracoc, Apricot Vine, Passion Vine and Granadilla. It has been used historically as a tobacco substitute and tranquilizer (as well as other things).

On top of having a profound effect on the central nervous system, passion flower also acts as an anti-spasmodic on the smooth muscles of the body, including the entirety of the digestion system, which is why it has the ability to promote and ease digestion.

It is considered by some to be the herb of choice for treating insomnia as it does not produce any side effects and creates a relaxing, restful sleep without grogginess the following morning.

It is non-addictive and may be used in both the elderley and children without leading to complications.

If used for its medicinal purposes, the whole plant may be used. It is typically collected after some of the berries have matured, then dried whole.

To brew a passion flower tea, pour a cup of boiling water onto a teaspoonful of the dried herb and let it infuse for 15 minutes. Drink a cup a half hour before you climb into bed.

Hops are the fruit of a member of the cannabis family native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Grown widely in the Pacific Northwest of north America, hops are used as a primary ingredient in flavoring beer.

Hops are typically used in conjunction with other herbs and flowers. They are frequently coupled with valerian, lavender or chamomile, but also holds their own as a relaxing natural sedative. The dried fruits, from which you can make tea, are often available, as are capsules, tinctures, and tablets.

Typically, no side effects or adverse drug interactions from the use of hops are reported, though some people have experienced an uncommon allergic reaction or contact dermatitis from the pollen crystals in the fruits.