Alternative Treatments

Alternative treatments refer to sleep aids not commonly practiced by traditional Western medicine. Some of the more popular ones include:

* Acupuncture

Acupuncture is traditonal Chinese medical practice where very fine needles are inserted at various points to regulate energy flow in specific areas of the body. Early clinical trials of acupuncture have shown they work positively with various sleep disorders.

* Meditation and Relaxation Techniques

Meditation is a great way to keep the body and mind relaxed and free from stress. It can help sleep by regulating overactive thoughts and stress that can keep you from getting proper sleep. Othe relaxation techniques can include yoga, pilates, or those mentioned in our section on Behavioral Treatments, like deep breathing.

* Herbal Sleeping Pills

Several herbs have been shown to have beneficial effects in the treatment of insomnia. You can check out our section on Herbal Sleep Supplements for more information.

* Lavender

Lavender pillow, lavender incense, and lavender sleep masks are being marketed right now to help with sleeplessness. Research has not been in-depth about these products but they may help so there's no harm in trying.

* Self-Hypnosis

There are many CD's and book available that teach basic self-hypnosis to put yourself in trance and sleep easier.