If you dread bedtime because you’re reasonably sure a good night’s sleep in not in store for you, it’s time to take matters into your own hands. If it makes you feel any better, about 33% of the US population has at least mild insomnia, and many of them struggle to find the magic wand that will break the spell.

Here are several natural cures for insomnia that have helped others. We hope at least one of them leads to the kind of uninterrupted sleep you need for your improved physical and psychological well-being.

Change Your Diet

That’s right, your diet be could what’s depriving you of sleep. Well before bedtime, stop ingesting carbs. Otherwise, your body will continue to burn them, and that process affects sleep. It’s also a good idea to get some healthy fats in your system to help you fall asleep.  Foods like avocado and organic yogurt (without sugar) can work extremely well.

Reduce Stress

Easier said than done, right? And yet, as you lay there each night tossing and turning, eventually tackling high levels of stress is at least worth a try.  The question is, how to get your mind to stop racing over all those little and big things that literally are keeping you up at night.  Here are some suggestions:

  • At least 30 minutes before bed time, shut off all electronics and read something that helps you relax.
  • Keep a paper journal and make nightly entries, especially about any issues of concern to you. Getting it on paper can help you make sense of it all and stop stressing about it – at least long enough to get to sleep.
  • Exercise before bed time. Exercise is one of the most natural ways to create endorphins which help you get a good night’s sleep.

Take Natural Supplements

Magnesium sleep supplements are the most effective way to cure insomnia without drugs. About 400 to 500 mg a night should be enough to help you reduce stress and get the kind of quality sleep you crave. If you have jet lag, taking melatonin for a few days is okay, but you don’t want to long-term as it can be habit forming.

Use Essential Oils

Chamomile, whether in tea, tincture or essential oil form, is one of the best medicinal herbs for fighting stress and promoting relaxation, according to research from Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine and Pharmacognosy Review. Inhaling chamomile vapors is often recommended as a natural remedy for anxiety and general depression, which is one reason why chamomile oil is a popular ingredient in many candles, aromatherapy products and bath-soaking treatments. You can also try rubbing a few drops of lavender oil on your neck before going to bed. Or, take a warm bath with lavender oil or Epsom salts, two more great ways to induce a peaceful night’s sleep.

Burton has a solution, too!

If allergy symptoms or excess humidity are what’s keeping you awake at night, Burton might have exactly what you need:  a whole-house air purifier, whole-house dehumidifier, or perhaps even both. Air purification isn’t a cure for allergies, but it can remove 99% and more of the airborne pollutants that have caused or aggravated your symptoms. And if your indoor humidity is over 55%, no wonder you’re having a hard time sleeping.

For more information on an air purifier or dehumidifier for your home, contact us today for more information and a free new system quote.