3 natural cures for insomnia

Natural Health, Dec, 2007 by Elizabeth Barker

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1 GUIDED IMAGERY Twelve insomniacs who listened to a relaxing guided-imagery CD every night for five weeks reported sleeping more soundly (and having less depression and anxiety as well), according to a June 2007 study from Federal University of Sao Paulo in Brazil. (Visit amazon.com for a wide range of guided-imagery CDs.)

2 HERBAL TEA Herbs like valerian, skullcap, passionflower, hops, and chamomile all have sedative properties that can make your mind and body ready for sleep, says Melissa Metcalfe, N.D., a naturopathic doctor in Westlake Village, Calif. Look for them in tea form at your local health food store, and sip a cup about an hour before bed.

3 5-HTP Derived from tryptophan, an amino acid also found in turkey, 5-HTP ups levels of serotonin, a brain chemical that regulates sleep. Metcalfe suggests taking a too milligram capsule nightly. Don't use 5-HTP if you're on antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications, since these drugs also increase serotonin levels.