Better Sleep : How Natural Supplements Can Relieve Vestibular Migraines, there are several natural sleep aids that can be helpful in promoting better sleep, but it is important to talk to a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement. Here are some commonly used natural sleep aids with a brief description and general dosage information:
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It is involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. The following are some of the benefits of melatonin:
- Helps regulate sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- May improve sleep quality, by helping to reset the body’s internal sleep clock and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.
Usually taken in doses of 1 to 5 milligrams about 30 minutes before bedtime. Melatonin is generally considered safe, but some common side effects include: drowsiness, morning grogginess and the one that worries me is long-term use may interfere with natural melatonin production. For this I would not recommend to use melatonin for short periods of time longer than 3 months.
Valerian root
A herb that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and sleep. Some of the potential benefits of valerian root for sleep include:
- Reducing anxiety and stress: Valerian root is believed to help regulate levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
- Improving sleep quality: improve sleep quality and reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, making it a popular natural sleep aid.
- Boosting brain function: Valerian root has been shown to improve cognitive performance, concentration, and reaction time, making it a good option for people who experience brain fog or fatigue.
It’s recommended to take between 300-600 mg of valerian root 1-2 hours before bedtime. Same as Melatonin Valerian root is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses for short periods of time. It is also important to note that valerian root can interact with certain medications, such as sedatives and antidepressants, so it is best to consult a doctor before using it if you are taking any other medication.
Chamomile
A herb that has been used as a sleep aid for centuries due to its calming and relaxing effects. It has several health benefits including:
- Promoting Sleep: due to it’s mild sedative properties.
- Reducing Stress and Anxiety: it contains compounds that have a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Often taken as a tea or in supplement form. The doses are ranging from 300 to 600 milligrams before bedtime. Chamomile is generally considered safe for most people, but some may experience allergic reactions. Also keep in mind it has interaction with certain medications, such as blood thinners and sedatives.
Lavender
A fragrant herb that has been shown to have a calming effect and may promote sleep. It has been traditionally used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It can be beneficial for individuals who suffer from insomnia or other sleep-related issues. Additionally, lavender is believed to have a number of other benefits for overall health and wellness, including:
- Antioxidant properties: known to protect cells against oxidative stress and damage.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: help to reduce inflammation and discomfort in the body. It contains compounds that have a sedative and relaxing effect on the brain and nervous system, including linalool and linalyl acetate. When inhaled or applied to the skin, these compounds are thought to interact with the limbic system and help to reduce anxiety, stress, and tension.
- Improved mood: The aroma of lavender has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body. It can can improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety.
- Improved sleep quality due to its calming effects.
- Pain relief: can help to reduce discomfort and pain in the body.
Usually taken in doses of 200 to 600 milligrams before bedtime. Considered safe but it can cause the following side effects: allergic reactions: skin irritation, itching, or redness. Also interaction with medications: lavender oil may interact with certain medications such as sedatives, blood thinners, and antidepressants.
Magnesium
A mineral that is involved in several bodily functions, including sleep regulation.
- Helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle by promoting the release of the sleep hormone melatonin
- Calms the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that can interfere with sleep
- Supports muscle relaxation, which can alleviate pain and discomfort that can cause sleep disturbances
- Helps to regulate blood sugar levels, which can prevent nighttime spikes that can interfere with sleep.
- Acts as a natural sedative, helping to promote a deeper, more restful sleep
Usually taken in doses of 250 to 600 milligrams before bedtime. Magnesium supplements can have side effects su as Diarrhea given it can act as a laxative. Magnesium can interact with certain medications, such as antibiotics, muscle relaxants, and some heart medications, so it is important to check with a doctor before taking magnesium supplements.
[…] They can be a complementary approach to managing dizziness, alongside other strategies like lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, or other natural remedies. […]