Insomnia : Supplements

A hop is a member of the Cannabacea family, traditionally used for relaxation, sedation, and to treat insomnia. A number of methodologically weak human trials have investigated hops in combination with valerian ( Valeriana officinalis ) for the treatment of sleep disturbances, and several animal studies have examined the sedative properties of hops alone. However, the results of these studies are equivocal, and there is currently insufficient evidence to recommend hops alone or in combination for any medical condition. Hops are also sometimes found in combination products with passionflower ( Passiflora incanata ), skullcap (potentially damaging to the liver), or with a high percentage of alcohol (up to 70% grain alcohol), confounding the association between the herb and possible sedative or hypnotic effects. Hops contain phytoestrogens that may possess estrogen receptor agonist or antagonist properties, with unclear effects on hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast, uterine, cervical, or prostate cancer, or endometriosis.

Hops come from the large perennial vine Humulus lupulus . This plant is native to North America and Europe, but is cultivated in many other places.

Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain by the pineal gland, from the amino acid tryptophan. The synthesis and release of melatonin are stimulated by darkness and suppressed by light, suggesting the involvement of melatonin in circadian rhythm and regulation of diverse body functions. Levels of melatonin in the blood are highest prior to bedtime. Synthetic melatonin supplements have been used for a variety of medical conditions, most notably for disorders related to sleep. Melatonin possesses antioxidant activity, and many of its proposed therapeutic or preventive uses are based on this property. New drugs that block the effects of melatonin are in development, such as BMS-214778 or luzindole, and may have uses in various disorders.

Melatonin is a hormone produced naturally in the pineal gland at the base of the brain. It is important in regulating sleep, and may play a role in maintaining circadian rhythm, the body ' s natural time clock.

The dried aerial parts of Passiflora incarnata have historically been used as a sedative and hypnotic (for insomnia), and for "nervous" gastrointestinal complaints. However, clinical evidence supporting any therapeutic use in humans is lacking. Pre-clinical studies provide preliminary support for a benzodiazepine-like calming action. Evidence for significant adverse effects is also unclear, and is complicated by the variety of poorly classified, potentially active constituents in different Passiflora species. Passion fruit ( P. edulis Sims ), a related species, is used as a food flavoring.

Valerian is an herb native to Europe and Asia, and now grows in most parts of the world. The name is believed to come from the Latin word "valere" meaning to be healthy or strong. The root of the plant is believed to contain its active constituents. Use of valerian as a sedative and anti-anxiety treatment has been reported for more than 2,000 years. For example, in the 2nd Century AD, Galen recommended valerian as a treatment for insomnia. Related species have been used in traditional Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Preparations for use on the skin have been used to treat sores and acne, and valerian by mouth has been used for other conditions such as digestive problems, flatulence (gas), congestive heart failure, urinary tract disorders, and angina. Valerian extracts became popular in the United States and Europe in the mid-1800s, and continued to be used by both physicians and the lay public until it was widely replaced by prescription sedative drugs. Valerian remains popular in North America, Europe, and Japan and is widely used to treat insomnia and anxiety. Although the active ingredients in valerian are not known, preparations are often standardized to the content of valerenic acid.

Valerian ( Valeriana officinalis ) is one of about 200 members of the Valerianaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and west Asia; it is naturalized throughout North America.

Valerian is an herbal remedy derived from the dried roots of the valerian plant, Valeriana officinalis . The plant belongs to the Valerianaceae family.