From the Guidelines
There is no strong evidence to support the use of herbal treatments for insomnia, and some herbal remedies may even be harmful. The most recent and highest quality study, 1, found that several herbal over-the-counter therapies, including kava, valerian, and chamomile, were ineffective for treating chronic insomnia disorder. In fact, kava has been associated with a risk of acute fatal liver toxicity, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has warned healthcare providers and the public about this risk. Some key points to consider:
- Kava has been shown to have no benefit in treating chronic insomnia disorder and carries a risk of acute fatal liver toxicity 1.
- Valerian and chamomile have also been found to be ineffective in treating insomnia, with no differences in daytime functioning, insomnia severity, or sleep quality compared to placebo 1.
- Melatonin has been studied for its potential benefits in treating insomnia, but the evidence is limited and inconclusive, and its use is not recommended as a first-line treatment 1. It's essential to prioritize good sleep hygiene and consider evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which has been shown to be effective in improving sleep outcomes 1. If insomnia persists or is severe, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions that may require different treatment.
From the Research
Herbal Treatments for Insomnia
Herbal treatments are increasingly being considered for the management of insomnia, a common sleep disorder. Some of the herbal sedatives that have been studied for their efficacy and safety in treating insomnia include:
- Valerian: Studies have shown moderate evidence for the safety and efficacy of valerian in treating insomnia 2, 3, 4. Valerian has been found to have a positive effect on sleep architecture, increasing deep sleep and improving sleep quality.
- Kava: Although kava has been found to have hypnotic effects, its use has been associated with serious hepatotoxicity, leading to its ban in many countries 2, 3.
- German Chamomile: Chamomile oil inhalation has been found to reduce insomnia severity and improve sleep quality in young adults with insomnia 5.
- Lavender: Aromatherapy with lavender essential oil has been found to have a positive effect on sleep disorders, although further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy 6.
- Passionflower: Animal experiments suggest that passionflower may have sedative effects, but human studies are needed to confirm its efficacy 3.
- Hops: Although hops have been traditionally used as a sedative, there is limited evidence to support its use in treating insomnia 3.
- Lemon Balm: Lemon balm has been found to have anxiolytic effects, which may be beneficial in treating insomnia, although further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy 2.
- St. John's Wort: St. John's Wort may have anxiolytic effects, which may be beneficial in treating insomnia, although further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy 2.
Safety and Efficacy
The safety and efficacy of herbal sedatives can vary depending on the specific herb and the individual using it. Some herbal sedatives, such as valerian, have been found to be well-tolerated and safe, with infrequent and benign side effects 4. However, others, such as kava, have been associated with serious side effects, including hepatotoxicity 2, 3. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal sedative, especially if you are taking other medications or have a medical condition.
Future Studies
Further studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of herbal sedatives in treating insomnia. Long-term trials and observational studies are necessary to establish the safety of prolonged use and overall efficacy in the context of cancer treatment and management 2. Additionally, studies with robust design and longer durations of intervention are necessary to investigate the mechanism of action of herbal sedatives and to provide more evidence-based judgment on their effect on sleep problems 6.