Almost 10-30% of the world population suffers from insomnia. It is common among elderly people and individuals with ill mental health. Insomnia is a sleeping disorder wherein an individual falls asleep but does not feel rested or finds difficulty in falling asleep. It results in weakness, poor performance, headaches, irritability, anxiety, depression and so much more.
If you have had a super hectic day, but even then you’re not able to fall asleep, you are suffering from insomnia. It’s the least understood sleep disorder because everyone’s way of living life and schedule differs. As per research, an adult needs 8-9 hours of sleep on average, otherwise, he/she might feel miserable, irritated and anxious throughout the day. Let’s dive deep into understanding what insomnia is.
There are two types of insomnia – acute and chronic insomnia. Acute insomnia doesn’t need any treatment and gets resolved on its own. Chronic insomnia on the other hand results in disrupted sleep at least thrice a week, which can even be worse for people who have ill mental health. Chronic insomnia can be caused because of unhealthy sleep habits, late-night work shifts, and other clinical disorders.
11 remedies to treat insomnia
1) A Hot Bath Will Always Help:
Taking a hot shower two hours before sleeping helps you to sleep peacefully. It was proven that women who took a hot shower before bed slept much better than those who didn’t. A hot shower will soothe the body and relax stressed veins. A pro tip for a more relaxing bath would be to add a few drops of essential oils like chamomile, rosemary, or lavender oil.
2) Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar contains amino acids that fight off fatigue. It breaks down fatty acids like tryptophan. Following this method, you will be able to regulate your disturbed sleep cycle. A pro tip would be to mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and honey in a warm glass of water and consume it before sleeping.
3) Fenugreek Water:
If you drink fenugreek water every day it will not only help you maintain good health but also good health. Fenugreek also helps in weight loss along with treating insomnia, anxiety, and dizziness. The pro tip would be to soak 1tsp fenugreek seeds in a glass of water and keep it overnight and consume it the next morning.
4) Peepramul Milk:
Peepramul/Ganthoda powder will give you the most peaceful sleep ever. Peepramul is said to make you feel sleepy. A warm glass of plain milk also works equally well. It relaxes the mind and the body. Alike apple cider vinegar, milk also contains tryptophan which promotes good sleep. A pro tip is to have warm milk infused with a pinch of cinnamon and peepramul in it.
5) Banana:
Banana is a rich source of iron, calcium and potassium which is known to be beneficial for insomnia. It would be astonishing to know that banana promotes sleep. A pro tip would be to eat a banana in a salad or eat it away simply!
6) Chamomile Tea:
This tea works wonders for people suffering from insomnia. Enjoying a cup of chamomile tea will make you sleepy and you will feel relaxed. A pro tip is to boil a cup of water and add chamomile flowers to it. Let it steep for a few minutes and drain it warm. Consume it before bedtime and enjoy the best sleep ever.
7) Kesar/Saffron:
Saffron can be used to treat sleep disorders such as insomnia because of its mild sedative properties, which help to relax the nerves and calm the mind. A pro tip is to drink two strands of saffron in a cup of warm milk before bedtime.
8) Cumin Seeds:
Cumin seeds is a culinary spice with sleep-inducing properties. It also helps with digestion. A pro tip would be to make a cup of cumin tea or mix one teaspoon of cumin powder into a mashed banana and eat it before bed.
9) Fennel Seed Infused Water:
Fennel is an excellent spice for cooling your body and treating sleep disorders. It is used in cooking and protects you from the side effects of medications. A pro tip is, in a glass of water, soak a tablespoon of fennel seeds. After two hours, strain the water and consume it.
10) Honey:
Honey has the ability to quickly put you to sleep once you consume it. Natural raw honey aids in the treatment of sleep disorders such as insomnia. A pro tip is to drink a mixture of honey and warm water before going to bed.
11) All Herbal:
Herbal teas promote better sleep quality and are thus very effective in treating insomnia. Herbal teas cause body heat, which causes sleepiness. Before going to bed, drink some herbal tea, such as chamomile or green tea.
However, if after several efforts, you still feel that this is not working, feel free to consult a doctor. It is highly advised not to take any medicine on your own because it may have side effects and the case might get worse for you. Reach out to an adult and we’re sure you will find the best way out.