These Sleep-Inducing Herbs Are Basically Nature's Ambien

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(Image credit: Urban Outfitters)

Whether you're a chronic insomniac or you're dealing with some temporary stress in your life, when you're struggling to sleep, there's certainly no shame in seeking a little extra help. (Quality shut-eye is the backbone of a healthy and happy life, after all.)

That said, when some sleep aids might seem too extreme (Ambien stories are both entertaining and mildly terrifying), might we suggest going the natural route? You don't even have to sacrifice efficacy for your peace of mind since research shows there are a handful of herbs that can significantly help you sleep better (and even curb anxiety and stress in the process).

To self-prescribe the best herb for yourself, however, it's important to understand why you're having trouble sleeping in the first place. "Insomnia is very rarely a standalone condition," says Sebastian Pole, herbalist and co-founder of Pukka Herbs. "It is often a symptom of another chronic underlying issue such as stress, for example. The key to treating insomnia is to identify the cause and then pick the herb accordingly."

With that in mind, we asked Pole to recommend four herbs that can help alleviate a number of symptoms that might be inhibiting a great night's sleep. Keep reading to see which one is right for you.

Ashwagandha

Valerian Root

Lavender

Linden Flower

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

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Victoria Hoff