I began to develop a sleeping disorder after taking my first job out of college.The main reason for my insomnia could be attributed to a high level of stress and a racing mind that could not be turned off.

I spent countless hours, counting sheep to no avail. Having had a somewhat addictive personality in my past, I was very reluctant to seek medical advice for fear I could grow an addiction to a sleeping aide in form of a pill.Finally, I found an herbal method that would eventually turn sleepless nights into well rested mornings.

I began to frequent a local loose leaf tea shop and became very good acquaintances with the owners.With a short description of my sleeping dilemma, they quickly gave me an antidote to try.The answer was in a tea blend called Kava Root.The blend is a perfect mixture that not only helps relax prior to going to bed, but also helps my stress and anxiety levels drop immensely.Obviously, it is non-caffeinated tea that simply needs to seep in 120 degree water for approximately 4 to 5 minutes.The taste is fantastic; however, I like to add a dash of cinnamon to satisfy my particular taste.I highly recommend giving this tea a try prior to ingesting pharmaceuticals.

Searching for a safe sleep aid

by Tami Newman
(michigan usa)

I haven’t been able to sleep through the night for as long as I can remember. I’m lucky to get 2 or 3 hours of consecutive sleep, followed by a few hours of tossig and turning.My youngest daughter also suffers from this problem.

I am very nervous about taking prescription sleep aids. I have seen too many news stories of people sleep driving, or sleep eating while on these medications to make me feel like this is a safe option.

I have tried a few natural herbal remedies, including chamomile tea before bed. I have also tried lavendar lotion as well as a lavendar sachet under my pillow. All were pleasant, but unfortunately did nothing to help me sleep. I have not tried the chamomile tea with my daughter, but the lavender lotion after a warm bath does seem to help her, and is perfectly safe.

I have also tried Tylenol PM before bed. This does help somewhat, but leaves me feeling heavy headed the next morning. Not something I enjoy. Plus I’m not sure I should be taking this when I have no pain. I would not give this to my daughter.

I would like to try more of the herbal sleep aids but first I want to consult with my doctor to be sure that whatever I am taking, and more importantly giving my daughter, is safe.

overcoming insomnia

by Patricia
(Amityville,NY,USA)

I have had bouts of insomnia for the past 16 years.I have noticed that it occurs during times of stress in my life or when I have worries.

In the beginning I did not do much, if anything to try to resolve it.Over time the sleepless nights started to interfere with my waking life and ability to concentrate.That is when I started seeking advice from those around me that I trusted.I have never been a big pill taker and worried about side effects,becoming addicted and having that “drugged” feeling in the morning.My mom suggested I try melatonin which is naturally occurring in the body.My sister suggested kava kava,an herb that helps to calm you.A coworker told me to try an old remedy-warm milk.I tried all three.The best results I found were with melatonin and milk.The milk worked best for me as it did not take long for me to fall asleep.I became drowsy shortly after consuming it.I awoke feeling well rested.The melatonin worked well, but it did take longer for me to fall asleep.I find that when needed if I take the milk or melatonin,these are the best for me.I couple that with things I find relaxing ,like reading or taking a bath.I would like to add that I do not recommend watching TV,as it tends to keep you stimulated.