Herbs For Insomnia | California Poppy and Honey
California poppy contains the compound protopine, which has been described as being similar in effect to a lighter version of morphine.
California poppy
Unlike its cousin the Opium poppy, this flower does not contain the narcotic morphine, though its structure is similar. Because of this, the California poppy does not have any of the addictive properties of its narcotic relative.
At this time dosage guidelines have not been established as there have been very few clinical studies of the effects of the California poppy.
Hops
Hops are the fruit of a member of the cannabis family native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Widely grown in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, hops form a central ingredient in the flavoring of beer.
Hops are typically used in conjunction with one of the flowers and herbs already mentioned. It is commonly paired with chamomile, lavender or valerian, but also holds its own as a relaxing natural sedative. The dried fruits, from which a tea can be made, are commonly available, as are tinctures, capsules, and tablets.
A very effective herbal sachet can be made by incorporating hops as an ingredient. To make one, use the same steps as used to construct the Lavender sachet demonstrated earlier in this book, but use the following as stuffing instead:
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1/4 cup hops fruits
1/8 cup chamomile flowers
1/8 cup lavender flowers
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Sprinkle a few drops of lavender essential oil into the mixture before sewing it up for a wonderful aromatic sleepy time sachet. Place the sachet under your pillow for a night of soothing aromas.
Generally, no side effects or adverse drug interactions from the use of hops are reported, although some individuals have experienced a rare allergic reaction or contact dermatitis from the pollen crystals in the fruits (similar to the allergic reaction to lavender as covered earlier).
Honey
Honey is said to have sleep inducing properties. Dark honey contains more antioxidants than light-colored honey. It can be used in herbal teas or mixed into warm milk.
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Milk and Honey Sleep Remedy
Ingredients:
1 glass warm milk, 1 drop vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon honey
Mix, then drink while it is still warm.
Use this just before going to bed.
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The information contained here should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other health care provider. The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only and in no way should be considered as an offering of medical advice.
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