A health treatment that is not classified as conventional western medical practice is referred to as an "alternative" or "complementary" therapy, although a strict definition of complementary medicine implies that it is alternative medicine taken along with conventional treatments. Alternative medicine, also called alternative therapy, encompasses a variety of disciplines that include everything from diet and exercise to mental conditioning and lifestyle changes. Examples of alternative therapies include acupuncture, guided imagery, yoga, hypnosis, biofeedback, aromatherapy, relaxation, herbal remedies, massage, and many others.
Some complementary and alternative therapies used to treat insomnia include supplements, relaxation and meditation, acupuncture, and exercise.
Supplements for Sleep Disorders
Herbal Treatments
The effects of the root of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) on sleep have been examined in people with sleep disorders. Some studies have suggested that valerian helps with the onset of sleep and with sleep maintenance. However, more research is needed before a final conclusion can be made about the safety and effectiveness of valerian for insomnia.
Chamomile and passionflower are other herbs commonly used in the treatment of insomnia but there has been no clinical investigation to support their use and long term safety.
Other herbs promoted as effective sleep remedies include hops, ginseng, lemon balm, and skullcap. The German government has approved certain herbs (valerian, hops, and lemon balm) for the relief of sleep problems. However, clinical studies to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of herbs are scarce. More information is needed before these herbs can be recommended as a first line of treatment for insomnia.
Since herbal supplements can interact with certain medications, always tell your doctor if you are using any herbal supplements. Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that is synthesized by the pineal gland in humans and produced in animals as well as plants. Although the effects of melatonin are complex and poorly understood, it plays a critical role in the regulation of your sleeping and waking cycle and other circadian rhythms. Melatonin has been studied as a possible treatment of circadian rhythm disorders and may be helpful in reducing sleep disturbances caused by jet lag.
Adverse effects of melatonin are minimal but long-term studies examining the effectiveness and toxicity of melatonin supplements are needed.
Acupuncture for Sleep Disorders
Acupuncture is often used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of insomnia and other sleep disorders. This procedure involves the insertion of very fine needles (sometimes in combination with a small electrical stimulus or with heat produced by burning specific herbs) into the skin at specific acupuncture points in order to influence the functioning of the body. The results of recent preliminary clinical trials of acupuncture have indicated improvements in sleep quality in people with insomnia. However, additional research is required before the effectiveness of acupuncture is proven conclusively for the relief of insomnia.
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