Naturopathic Remedies For Sleeplessness
Are you having trouble sleeping, are you suffering from restlessness, or do you deal with chronic fatigue? There is a growing body of peer-reviewed scientific research supporting naturopathic remedies for these symptoms. Many medical doctors will prescribe pharmaceuticals to help you sleep, but you will usually suffer serious side effects and become dependent.
The remedies suggested below do not come with those red flags. If you are not able to sleep, do yourself a favor and consult with a certified Naturopathic Doctor as soon as possible.
According to the American Sleep Association, approximately 50 to 70 million Americans suffer from sleep issues or disorders. This includes insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy, and other sleep-related conditions. The impact of these sleep issues can range from daytime fatigue and impaired cognitive function to an increased risk of chronic health conditions and accidents. It is important for individuals experiencing symptoms of sleep issues to seek medical attention in order to properly diagnose and manage their condition. With proper treatment, individuals can improve their quality of sleep and overall health and well-being.
What Are The Most Common Sleep Disorders?
Sleep disorders are a common problem that can affect a person’s quality of life. Here are a few common issues.
Insomnia
Insomnia is a sleep disorder that makes it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, and certain medical conditions.
Sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes a person to stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep. It can lead to poor quality sleep, daytime fatigue, and other health problems.
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
RLS is a condition that causes an uncomfortable sensation in the legs, which can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. A naturopathic doctor may prescribe various botanical remedies for your restlessness, but they may also engage in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help.
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep.
Parasomnia
Parasomnia is a sleep disorder that involves abnormal behaviors during sleep, such as sleepwalking, night terrors, and sleep talking.
Beyond those often-diagnosed conditions, you may simply not be sleeping well. This could be caused by anxiety, depression, nutrition, and more.
Sleep Disorders, Left Unaddressed, Can Cause Serious Harm
Sleep disorders can have a significant impact on your physical, emotional, and mental health.
For instance, sleep disorders have been linked to an increased risk of chronic health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Poor sleep can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance and increase inflammation, which can contribute to the development of these conditions.
Sleep disorders can also impair cognitive function, leading to problems with memory, concentration, and decision-making. This can impact your performance at work or school and reduce your overall quality of life.
Sleep disorders can also contribute to the development of mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. Poor sleep can exacerbate symptoms of these conditions and make it more difficult to manage them effectively.
How Do Naturopathic Doctors Treat Sleep Disorders?
Naturopathic doctors practice functional medicine, which seeks to treat the whole person rather than address a single symptom in a vacuum. This takes into account the fact that the entire body works together, and neurotransmitters, hormones, gut health, and more need to work together in harmony for you to be considered “well.”
Herbal Supplements
Naturopathic doctors may prescribe herbal supplements to support various aspects of health and wellness, such as reducing inflammation, boosting immunity, or improving digestion. You may be prescribed glutathione, anti-oxidants, gingery, and much more. This isn’t as simple as it sounds, though – you need a doctor to assign the correct amounts, mix, and schedule for you.
Dietary Changes
Naturopathic doctors often emphasize the importance of a healthy diet, as it provides the body with the nutrients it needs to function optimally. They may recommend specific dietary changes to address specific health conditions.
Lifestyle Modifications
Naturopathic doctors may recommend lifestyle modifications, such as stress reduction techniques, exercise, or sleep hygiene, to support overall health and well-being.
Physical Therapies
Naturopathic doctors may use physical therapies, such as massage or acupuncture, to address pain and improve physical function.
Mind-Body Medicine
Naturopathic doctors may use mind-body techniques, such as meditation or biofeedback, to help patients manage stress and improve their overall sense of well-being.
