Oats
This popular cereal induces tranquillity and sleep. It possesses calming and sedative properties. These properties emanate from oatmeal. A tea made from oats is especially valuable in cases of chronic headaches. It also makes a good bedtime drink for those who are unable to sleep as well as for those who are suffering from nervous exhaustion. Excessive use of oats should, however, be avoided as high doses may cause gas, abdominal bloating and pain.
Poppy Seeds
Poppy seeds are found in poppy heads. They form part of many prescriptions for tonics. The plant is endowed with roots of strong fragrance. Poppy seeds are of great value as a calming and sedative food The seeds can be beneficially used as a valuable medicine in sleeplessness. About 30 grams of milk extracted from the seeds mixed with honey can be used for treating this condition. A teaspoon of poppy seed oil taken every night is also very effective in sleeplessness.
Rauwolfia
This popular Indian medicinal plant is a calming and sedative food. It is thus effective in treating insomnia. The hypnotic action of the drug appears to have been known since ancient times. The very first dose of rauwolfia enables the patient of a phlegmatic and gouty nature to go to sleep. The powder of the root in a quantity of 0.25 grams to 0.50 grams should be mixed with some scented substance like cardamom and given to the patient at bedtime. The patient will have a sound sleep during the entire night. In case of chronic insomnia, the patient should take 0.25 grams twice a day, both in the morning and at night before retiring
Thiamin-Rich Foods
Of the various food elements, thaimine or vitamin B, is of special significance as a calming and sedative substance. Its use has, therefore, been found very valuable in inducing sleep. This vitamin is vital for strong and healthy nerves. A body starved of thaimine over a long period will be unable to relax and fall asleep naturally. Rich sources of this vitamin are whole grain cereals, pulses and nuts.
Valerian
Valerian is an ancient popular medicinal plant, with strong calming and sedative properties. It is a traditional remedy for functional disturbances of the nervous system. It was perhaps the earliest treatment of neurosis, accompanied by physical diseases with mental symptoms or social maladjustment, especially in interpersonal relationships. The herb is particularly useful in treating cases of hysteria, restless and irritable conditions. The drug exercises depressant action on the overall central nervous system. It has gained importance in recent years owing to its beneficial effects in epilepsy.
The herb is useful in inducing sleep due to its sedative property. It reduces excitement, irritation and pain. The fresh juice of the plant can be used beneficially as a narcotic in insomnia.
The juice of the fresh rhizomes and roots is considered more effective in the treatment of nervous disorders as its medicinal properties get reduced on drying. An infusion of valerian is prepared by infusing 80 grams of the herb in half a litre of boiling water. The later should be taken in small quantities, three or four times daily.