Natural sleep remedies from around the globe

Natural sleep remedies have existed since the dawn of time. Before we knew that other people existed, individual countries and cultures had their own natural sleep remedies. Now that we can travel with ease and share things on the internet, we can exchange wisdom. Thank goodness because we’d be exhausted without it.

If you’re struggling to sleep at night and you don’t want to take artificial sleeping pills, here are some of the best natural sleep remedies from around the world.

1. Lavender

You probably already know this one because lavender is commonly used in Europe as a natural sleep remedy. This fragrant purple flower is used in the practice of aromatherapy because of its calming effects, but it’s also known to induce drowsiness. You can buy it in oil form and drip a few drops onto your pillow, and that should be enough to send you into slumber. If you’re not a fan of rubbing things into your bedding, buy lavender scented candles, instead.

2. Dried Jujube

Common in China, dried jujube seeds are rumoured to provoke sleep. Jujube is a small tree that bears fruits that look a little bit like dates. No need to fly to China; you can buy these pretty little sleeping aids online.

3. Passion flower

Used in North and South America, passion flower leaves were used by Native Americans as a cure for insomnia. Passion flower is said to release chemicals that promote relaxation and it is extremely versatile; it can be smoked, taken in the form of a tablet, or you can drink it as tea.

4. Valerian

German sleep aid valerian is often used as a sedative, which makes it a useful sleeping aid. The root of the plant is said to smell like dirty socks, but this is one of the world’s most popular natural sleep remedies. Valerian is most commonly ingested as a supplement.

5. Wild Lettuce

We’re not suggesting that you head down to your local supermarket and buy a random lettuce to stick beneath your pillow, though Wild Lettuce does grow in England. It’s relatively rare, growing in the south-east of England and in Australia. You can buy it online.

Wild lettuce is also used to treat asthma, restlessness, painful periods and swollen genitals. It is also revered for its hallucinogenic effects.

6. Chamomile

Chamomile is relatively common in England and is usually ingested in tea form, but it actually comes from Eastern Europe. This fragrant remedy acts as a sedative and is available to buy as a tea from most supermarkets.

7. Melatonin

Your body naturally produces melatonin in your brain but taking additional supplements has been shown to increase feelings of sleepiness and reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. Be extremely careful when purchasing supplements on the internet, as they are not regulated in the way medication is.

8. Meditation

If you’ve never tried meditation then you might feel a little silly the first time you attempt it, but once you’ve tried it a few times, you’ll find that it has the remarkable ability to switch off your brain. This is really handy if your sleeplessness is due to stress or anxiety.

Meditation involves clearing your mind or focusing on one specific sound or object in order to quiet your brain and achieve a mindful state. This can be extremely effective if you’re having trouble sleeping. Fifteen minutes on a morning or an evening is all you need, and there are lots of handy apps and videos on YouTube you can use to help you.

Struggling to sleep?

Your mattress might be partly to blame. Ely mattresses are made from natural materials and heat responsive. They’re compatible with any bed and come with a 30-night sleep trial and 0% finance.

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