Consumption

Are you dreading night time? Are you anxious about going to sleep? Getting to sleep can sometimes be very difficult, as can the dark circles you have to deal with in the morning. To support you in your quest for a good night's sleep, here are some examples of natural drinks that can be used as potential remedies.

First of all, know that stress and sleep rarely go together. There are many relaxation methods to calm your anxious state before bed. Meditation or yoga are among them. The ritual technique also helps to relax your tension and works as a real internal alarm that tells your brain that sleep is around the corner. Establishing habits such as relaxation through meditation (music, hypnosis, etc.) as well as hot drinks will help warn your body that it's time to take a break. In addition, certain substances can be ingested in order to stimulate your production of serotonin and melatonin. These hormones play an essential role in regulating your sleep. Therefore, drinks containing minerals, tryptophan, and therapeutic herbs are beneficial.

Passionflower infusion

Discovered in the 17th century in South America, passionflower has become the most famous plant for combating anxiety and improving quality of sleep. Containing flavonoids, known for their relaxing effect, this plant is considered a natural treatment most similar to anxiolytics. Passionflower also influences sleep by inducing a sedative action, causing no side effects or any addiction. A good herbal tea is recommended in case of occasional insomnia.

Chamomile infusion

Roman chamomile, generally used for herbal teas, is a plant with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps soothe muscle contractions of the digestive system as well as the uterus. Bringing comfort to those who suffer from heartburn, chamomile promises no interruption during the night. Containing an antioxidant that acts on the brain, this plant fights insomnia and helps you fall asleep. Chamomile extract "promotes relaxation and can reduce anxiety" specifies RTBF.

Hot milk

It's not a myth, hot drinks, provided you choose them well, are recommended for a good night's sleep. Heat makes you sweat and therefore lowers your body temperature. This physiological phenomenon occurs naturally from 5pm and it's at its advanced stage that sleep appears. Heat only reinforces the mechanism. Milk, for its part, thanks to its richness in tryptophan helps you fall asleep. Indeed, "tryptophan is a metabolic precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin" indicates the Passeportsante website. And as mentioned above, serotonin helps regulate sleep (but also anxiety and appetite). It would therefore be good to drink warm milk if insomnia knocks at your door.

Valerian root infusion

In Ancient Greece, doctors recommended valerian to treat sleep disorders. During the First World War, this plant was also used to relieve nervousness caused by bombings. Today, it still occupies an important place in the lives of people who struggle to calm agitation and who are regular victims of insomnia. Valerian root infusion can also help relieve menopausal women by offering them a better quality of sleep.

To conclude, note that it's strongly advised not to drink coffee after 2pm, consume alcohol in the evening or eat or drink one hour before going to bed. You certainly won't want to be bothered by the need to pee in the middle of the night, heartburn or interrupting deep stages of your sleep.

(MH with AsD - Sources: RTBF/Passeportsante - Illustration: Unsplash)