Sleeping Pills and Natural Sleeping Aids: What Works and What Doesn't



Sleep is a fundamental aspect of human health and well-being, but many people struggle with getting adequate rest. While there are many potential reasons for this, some people turn to sleeping pills to help them get the rest they need. However, there are important side effects and consequences that should be considered before making a decision about using sleeping pills.


Sleeping pills help people to either fall asleep or stay asleep. They work on the receptors in the brain to slow down the nervous system and promote relaxation and drowsiness. There are many different types of sleeping pills available, including benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepines, and sedatives. 


While sleeping pills may be an effective aid, they come with a wide range of possible side effects and risks. These may include, but are not limited to: dizziness, headaches, nausea, next day drowsiness, deathly allergic reactions and sometimes even sleep related behaviours where you may perform tasks while not being fully conscious. In some cases, sleeping pills can also lead to dependence, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms when they are stopped. For these reasons, it is important that they are only used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Many people continue to take sleeping pills, even after knowing the side effects, because they are an effective short term solution and can help in managing insomnia and other sleeping disorders.


On the other hand, natural sleeping aids are substances or practices that can help induce sleep without the help of any medication. These can be herbal remedies, techniques to obtain complete relaxation or complete changes in lifestyle. The most common sleeping aids are chamomile tea, melatonin, valerian root and meditation.


Fortunately, sleeping aids are considered to be safe and have fewer side effects as compared to sleeping pills. However, we must take note that sleeping aids may not be effective for everyone. Moreover, they may interfere with another ongoing medication therefore making it necessary to consult your doctor before using anything. 


At the end of the day, the choice of using either sleeping pills or natural aids, is a decision the individual has to make. Some people may comment that they find sleeping pills to be more effective and some may rather use natural aid. In either of the cases it's important to consult a doctor and follow proper healthcare guidelines.

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