St. John's Wort/Kava Kava - Alternative Medicine Message Board

MMMarie · 03-26-2001, 01:29 AM

I was wondering if anyone here had tried St. John's Wort or Kava Kava?

I have read that they can help for insomnia.......my challenge is the 'getting to sleep' part. Once I'm asleep, I rarely wake up until the morning.

Any advice? Or...does anyone know of any good herbal remedies that might help induce sleep?

Thanks!

rhody · 03-26-2001, 02:01 PM

MMMarie,

In addition to the herbs that you mention, there are many herbs that have been used to help sleep such as valerian, chamomile, hops, passionflower, and skullcap. Compared to prescription drugs, herbs are reportedly much safer, if taken properly in small amounts. But care must be taken to understand the proper amount of herbs to take, and the duration of treatment etc. Also the method of preparation and knowing how pure your herbs are, are important too. Herbal therapy is actually quite a science. If you are considering using herbs, I recommend you do lots of research to thoroughly understand it, and try to find a health professional that can help you as well.

If you didn't have a lot of time to do this research about herbs, you could find some of these herbs already prepared, such as you would find with Celestial Seasonings tea. These are very mild herbal teas, that are very popular.

Often before I consider using herbs, I try to find if there are other natural things that I could do first, such as with diet and exercise. With trying to go to sleep, I have found that exercise has always been most helpful.

Many years ago, when I was in college, I had trouble running (because of my illness - now cured), I started lifting weights. I lifted very heavy weights (110 lbs. over my head) many times an evening. I found that not only was this weight exercising good for me to be physically fit, but I found that it made me so very sleepy at night. My arms and shoulders hit the bed, like I could not move another muscle, and I went into a very deep sleep quickly. Each person is different when lifting weights and other forms of exercising, so it's best to always start out slowly with a light exercise regimen, and then build up to a level that you are most comfortable doing. Exercise also can be a great stress reliever. So without drugs or even herbs, you can regulate your body naturally and feel great too.

Brookej · 03-27-2001, 05:27 AM

MMMarie,
I personally have really good luck using melatonin to fall asleep. Melatonin is not an herb - it is a hormone. You can easily find it at health food stores. I have read 2 books about it. The dose needed varies widely among people. I am even aware of 2 different Pediatricians who "prescribe" it to children. It is not a prescription medication so the parents buy it over-the-counter. Children generally should not need melatonin because children produce a lot of their own melatonin but these children are special needs children. I would suggest reading up on melatonin if you want to consider trying it. I think it is best to try to educate yourself on any herbs or non-prescription products that you are considering trying. I have known a few people who hear something on TV or from others about an herb and run out and buy it and take huge quantities of it - more is not always better and many herbs should be discontinued prior to surgery due to bleeding problems, etc. Best of luck!
Brookej

MMMarie · 03-27-2001, 06:00 PM

Thanks, everyone, for the replies!!!

I have tried the Celestial Teas (SleepyTime Tea) and they have no affect on me. I could probably drink gallons and gallons...

Brooke - I will read up on melatonin. Do you take it for insomnia, and does it actually help you?

I agree that exercise would be good.... however, I don't exercise 'per se'. I have rheumatoid arthritis and have alot of joint erosion, so exercise is out of the question. I do, however, have 2 kids, so am constantly on the go and doing stuff for them, so that probably amounts to alot of "exercise", actually. lol

I have always been apprehensive about trying any new medications..... but what if they actually helped! I am working on relaxation techniques, etc. and am presently reading a book on meditation. (I know, sounds strange, but what if it actually helps??)

My doctor is very anti-drug and will not prescribe anything that can be addictive, so I'm really at a loss as to what to do.

Thanks again.

Misha_82 · 05-23-2004, 12:10 PM

Hello, i've come across some herbs over the internet to help with sleep, i have anxiety problems, not sleep problems, but i've read that passionflower or valerian work good, but together they help for sleep. I was talking to a friend on the phone today and she takes them together to help her go to sleep. I've tried St. John's oil wort, and it didn't help me go to sleep. I hope this helps.

Melissa