Skip to content
Join Life Time
herbs and supplements to help insomnia

Occasional stress like sleeplessness can make it tempting to reach for over-the-counter drugs, but some mental health experts recommend trying nutritional supplements and remedies first.

Even one night of poor sleep can disrupt mood and demolish focus. When sleeplessness becomes chronic, mental well-being can suffer significantly. That’s why integrative psychiatrist Henry Emmons, MD, believes that prioritizing sleep is the best way to promote optimal mental health.

“When sleep falls into place, depression and anxiety can sometimes improve on their own, and natural remedies are much gentler and safer than prescription sleep aids.”

Emmons considers magnesium the most crucial micronutrient for treating sleep issues, but he also suggests these herbal remedies:

  • Valerian root interacts with GABA and serotonin receptors to calm nerves and improve sleep; it’s especially good for those who suffer from anxiety or hyperactivity.
  • Passionflower can increase the time we spend in restorative slow-wave sleep, leading to fewer disturbances and better-quality rest overall.
  • CBD stands for cannabidiol, a chemical found in hemp plants. CBD calms the nervous system, and studies suggest it may improve the overall quality of sleep. (Learn more about how CBD works at “Is CBD Effective?“)

Learn More

Explore our collection of mental health articles to find more information that can assist you in supporting your overall well-being.

This was excerpted from “8 Key Supplements to Boost Your Mental Health — Naturally” which was published in Experience Life magazine.

Alexandra
Alexandra Smith, MA, LPCC

Alexandra Smith, MA, LPCC, is a licensed professional clinical counselor in Minneapolis and an Experience Life contributing editor.

Thoughts to share?

This Post Has 0 Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More From Life Time

An assortment of Life Time supplement packages.

Nutritional Supplements

Optimize your nutrition and fill in nutrient gaps with daily essentials and specialty supplements.

Explore Nutritional Supplements

ADVERTISEMENT

More Like This

hops plant

Can Hops Help Ease Insomnia?

By Henry Emmons, MD

This plant can ease anxiety and insomnia — especially sleeplessness related to nervous tension.

a variety of CBD products

NATURAL MENTAL HEALTH: How to Use CBD to Support Your Mental Health

By Henry Emmons, MD

Learn how this plant compound can help us regulate our mood and sleep for better mental health.

a woman lays in bed with her arm over her eyes

NATURAL MENTAL HEALTH: Overcoming Deep Fatigue

By Henry Emmons, MD

If you’re still exhausted after getting plenty of sleep, it’s possible your adrenal glands need some support.

Back To Top