Natural tranquilizers

Inner restlessness, tension, nervousness, but also anxiety and problems falling or staying asleep: herbal sedatives have now proven themselves as a alternative to conventional, mostly prescription medications for some complaints. Too often, we strain our nerves by demanding too much from ourselves. The enormous stress that our modern lifestyle brings is not made for humans. Herbal sedatives, on the other hand, are the perfect remedy, especially since they usually have no or fewer side effects than synthetic drugs.

 

Natural sedatives work gently compared to synthetically produced preparations. Their effectiveness covers a broad spectrum: some remedies can help with falling asleep, while others calm the nerves. Some natural sedatives are good at dissolving inner restlessness.

The exact mode of action of natural sedatives is less well researched compared to conventional medicine drugs. However, scientific findings already suggest that some plants have a sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effect. This applies especially to the plants Valerian, Hops, St. John's Wort, Passionflower, and Lemon balm.

With natural sedatives, the effect usually does not start with the first dose. Therefore, a little patience is needed. It usually takes up to two weeks before you feel the first effects.

Interestingly, conventional medicine drugs tend to have a very one-sided effect, while plant-based active ingredients fulfill several functions. For example, lemon balm can have a calming and sleep-promoting effect. So you can drink a good lemon balm tea if you want to fall asleep or relax. Sleeping pills, however, are usually only suitable for bedtime.

Additionally, lemon balm can have antibacterial effects, possibly help with depression, or even relieve headaches. The modes of action are therefore very versatile, although the possible antidepressant effect is probably not very strong.

 

Although we do not yet know everything about herbal helpers and their exact mode of action, they offer many advantages. For example, you do not have to fear any significant side effects when using them temporarily. There is also no addiction potential with herbal sedatives. For this reason, herbal preparations are available over the counter, unlike prescription drugs.

Furthermore, natural sedatives such as plants and herbs can be found directly in the nature around us or in the garden. Their gentle effect is also often an advantage. Unlike strong sedatives, they do not reduce performance.

Additionally, humans have lived side by side with these herbs for thousands of years and consumed them for various ailments. Our bodies are more or less made to receive herbs and plant-based active ingredients, quite the opposite of synthetic drugs.

Early humans fed on about 500 herbs and wild plants in their immediate environment. The plants in Central Europe differed greatly from those in, for example, East Asia. Today, humans worldwide consume roughly 17 cultivated plants. Many plant-based active ingredients that have accompanied us for millennia are thus lost.

 

Many plants and herbs in nature can serve as natural sedatives. These include:

Valerian is certainly the best-known natural sedative and is primarily used for sleep problems. This effect seems to stem from valerian increasing GABA production while simultaneously inhibiting its breakdown.

Hops are also said to have a sedative effect according to studies, best in combination with valerian. This is attributed to a melatonin-like mode of action.

Lemon balm can contribute to relaxation and is recommended as a natural sedative for nervousness and restlessness.

St. John's Wort is considered a herbal antidepressant due to its mood-lifting effects. It is also prescribed for difficulties falling asleep, nervousness, and mild excitability.

Passionflower herb is said to help treat nervous restlessness and irritability associated with sleep disorders. Since the herb can also lower blood pressure and relieve cramps, this natural sedative helps you even further.