NWR/KWR: Insomnia/ Valerian Root

Would you consider melatonin?

I have tried valerian and found it basically does nothing for me. Melatonin will make me sleepy, but you do have to take care to take it like an hour or two before sunset (I find) because it is resetting your circadian rhythm. If I take it at bed time it does make me sleep but I feel groggy and tired in the morning. My mom swears by this thing called 5HTP, not sure what all is in it but it is meant to calm you.

ETA: spelling

Melatonin only helps me for jetlags. I'm taking it when I come back from Europe or go there so my body can get back into it's natural rhythm. Unfortunately, it does absolutely nothing otherwise.

Chamomile tea, no screens an hour or more before bedtime.

Do you have any sleep apnea issues? The only other thing I could think to suggest is to see a doctor if it gets really unsustainable. Suuuuucks. Best of luck, I hope you find something that works!

I was an avid melatonin user for years because I struggle with insomnia. Now it gives me horrible nightmares! Valeria root does the trick for me now, never leaves me drowsy, and takes about 30mins to kick in. It is easy to push past though so I only take it when I'm ready to climb in bed, without my phone, and try. I've also found regular exercise over time really helps.

L-Theanine!! There is a brand called Sun Theanine. Its amazing! I used it when I was in law school and was super stressed and not sleeping. Be wary of melatonin and only take the minimum dose that works for you, otherwise you risk making your body dependent on Melatonin.

Valerian often helps me, but not always. It works best for me when combined with passionflower. Lemon balm and linden also help me with sleep issues if I'm not overly stressed out but can't sleep for some reason.

DH also has anxiety issues, though he doesn't have sleeping problems. To take the edge away, he's used St. John's wort and it has helped him.

Melatonin, chamomile tea, Benadryl. Those are the things I have my patients try first.