By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Insomnia
Herbal capsules for insomnia are natural supplements made from plant extracts that promote relaxation, calmness, and improved sleep quality.
These capsules work by reducing stress and anxiety levels, which can help individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Examples of herbal capsules that have been shown to be effective in treating insomnia include valerian root, chamomile, and lemon balm.
By taking these capsules before bed, individuals can wake up feeling rested and refreshed, improving their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for insomnia, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Valeriana officinalis
- 2. Passiflora incarnata
- 3. Humulus lupulus
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Tilia platyphyllos
- 6. Melissa officinalis
- 7. Scutellaria lateriflora
- 8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 9. Vitis vinifera
- 10. Corydalis ambigua
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for insomnia?
- What ailments similar to insomnia are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian capsules helps with insomnia because they promote relaxation and calmness, making it easier to fall asleep.
The natural ingredients in valerian root have a sedative effect on the brain, reducing stress and anxiety levels that can disrupt sleep patterns. Additionally, valerian capsules help regulate the body's internal clock, ensuring that you sleep soundly through the night without frequent awakenings.
By calming the mind and body, herbal valerian capsules create a peaceful environment for a restful night's sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis capsules that help with insomnia.
- Valerenic acid: A sesquiterpene in Valeriana officinalis, valerenic acid is believed to help with insomnia by exerting a sedative effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
- Isovaleramide: A valerenic acid derivative, isovaleramide is thought to contribute to the sleep-promoting properties of Valeriana officinalis by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, thereby enhancing the calming effects of the neurotransmitter GABA.
- Valerenol: An isovalerylbenzene derivative, valerenol may help with insomnia by displaying a sedative effect and promoting relaxation, possibly by inhibiting the activity of certain neurotransmitters involved in the regulation of sleep-wake cycles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make capsules for insomnia.
- Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are the primary source of valerenic acids, which are responsible for its sedative and relaxing properties.
- Leaves: The leaves contain a smaller amount of valerenic acids compared to the roots but still contribute to the plant's relaxing effects and are often used as a complementary ingredient.
- Seeds: The seeds of Valeriana officinalis are also used for their sedative properties, although they are less potent than the roots and leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for insomnia.
- Harvest valeriana officinalis roots in early spring or late summer to ensure optimal potency and freshness for use.
- Dry the harvested roots at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours to remove excess moisture and facilitate preservation.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle to enhance bioavailability and ease encapsulation.
- Mix 250 milligrams of the powdered valeriana officinalis root with 75 milligrams of a filler material such as gelatin or starch.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the mixture and seal them immediately to prevent moisture and contamination.
2. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop capsules helps with insomnia because they contain Passiflora incarnata, a natural herb that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and induce calmness.
The capsules help to reduce anxiety and stress levels, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
Additionally, maypop capsules have a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help to quiet the mind and body, leading to a restful and rejuvenating sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata capsules that help with insomnia.
- Harmane: A non-selective serotonin receptor antagonist that helps to regulate sleep patterns and reduce insomnia symptoms by modulating the serotonin system in the brain.
- Isovitexin: A flavonoid glycoside that has been shown to have sedative and sleep-promoting effects by interacting with the GABA receptor, leading to a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Flavonoids: A type of polyphenol that has been found to have a sedative effect by interacting with GABA receptors, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, thereby helping to improve sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make capsules for insomnia.
- Roots: The roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of passifloric acid, which is responsible for the sedative and hypnotic effects.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used as they contain a higher concentration of flavonoids and alkaloids, which contribute to the sleep-promoting properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for insomnia.
- Harvest 1 pound of passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested material at 30°c for 2 hours or until the moisture content reaches 10%.
- Grind 2 tablespoons of the dried material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of the powder with 2 tablespoons of gelatin and 2 tablespoons of water in a bowl.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the mixture and store them in an airtight container in a cool dry place.
3. Humulus lupulus
Hops capsules helps with insomnia because they contain the natural sedative properties of hop extract, which can promote relaxation and calmness.
The capsules work by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, increasing the production of serotonin and promoting a sense of tranquility. This helps individuals fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly throughout the night, reducing symptoms of insomnia such as restlessness and fatigue.
As a natural solution, hops capsules offer an effective and non-habit forming way to improve sleep quality and duration.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus capsules that help with insomnia.
- Iso-alpha-acids: These bitter compounds have a sedative effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can contribute to insomnia.
- Humulone: This terpene has a sedative and anxiolytic effect, helping to calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Xanthohumol: This prenylated chalcone has a sedative and sleep-promoting effect, possibly by modulating the body's circadian rhythms and reducing inflammation, which can disrupt sleep patterns.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make capsules for insomnia.
- Flowers: They are used to make capsules for insomnia because they contain a high concentration of essential oils, particularly humulone and lupulone, which have a sedative effect.
- Leaves: They are used to make capsules for insomnia because they contain a similar composition of essential oils as the flowers, which helps to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
- Stems: They are used to make capsules for insomnia because they also contain a mixture of essential oils, including humulone and lupulone, which can help to induce sleep and reduce stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for insomnia.
- Dry 100g of humulus lupulus flowers in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 5g of the powder with 500g of vegetable cellulose powder.
- Use a capsule machine to fill 100 capsules with the mixture weighing approximately 250mg per capsule.
- Store the capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 years.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender capsules helps with insomnia because they promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, making it easier to fall asleep.
The calming properties of lavender have been shown to slow down brain activity, allowing for a deeper and more restful sleep. Additionally, the sedative effects help to calm the mind and body, reducing symptoms of anxiety and restlessness that often contribute to insomnia.
By promoting a peaceful night's sleep, English lavender capsules can help alleviate symptoms of insomnia and improve overall sleep quality.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia capsules that help with insomnia.
- Linalool: A terpene that helps with insomnia by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety due to its sedative and calming effects.
- Linalyl acetate: A terpene that helps with insomnia by promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality due to its sedative and anxiolytic properties.
- Lavandulol: A terpene that helps with insomnia by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety due to its sedative and calming effects, which can lead to improved sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make capsules for insomnia.
- Leaves: The leaves of Lavandula angustifolia are used to make capsules for insomnia due to their calming properties, which help in reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
- Flowers: The flowers of Lavandula angustifolia are used to make capsules for insomnia due to their sedative properties, which help in inducing a good night's sleep and improving sleep quality.
- Seeds: The seeds of Lavandula angustifolia are used to make capsules for insomnia due to their potential in regulating sleep patterns and promoting relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for insomnia.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers from a trusted source to ensure quality.
- Clean the flowers by gently sifting them through a fine-mesh sieve to remove debris.
- Grind the flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle within 5 minutes.
- Fill gelatin capsules with 200-300 milligrams of the powder and seal immediately to preserve potency.
- Store the filled capsules in a cool dark place for up to 6 months to maintain efficacy.
5. Tilia platyphyllos
Broad-leaved lime capsules helps with insomnia because they contain a calming compound called flavonoids, which can help to relax the body and mind.
The capsules also possess sedative properties, allowing individuals to fall asleep faster and stay asleep for longer periods. Additionally, the herbal remedy has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels, common contributing factors to insomnia.
As a natural treatment, broad-leaved lime capsules provide a safe and effective way to promote a restful night's sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos capsules that help with insomnia.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have a sedative effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common underlying causes of insomnia.
- Tiliroside: This flavonoid glycoside has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, promoting a peaceful sleep and reducing the risk of insomnia.
- Terpenoids: These compounds have a calming and soothing effect on the nervous system, which helps to alleviate symptoms of insomnia, such as restlessness and difficulty falling asleep.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make capsules for insomnia.
- Leaves: Tilia platyphyllos leaves are used to make capsules for insomnia due to their calming and sedative properties.
- Flowers: Tilia platyphyllos flowers are used to make capsules for insomnia because they contain compounds that promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
- Buds: Tilia platyphyllos buds are used to make capsules for insomnia due to their soothing and calming effects, which can help individuals fall asleep.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for insomnia.
- Harvest 100g of dried tilia platyphyllos flowers and leaves in the early morning to ensure maximum potency.
- Dry the harvested material in a well-ventilated area for 2-3 days to reduce moisture content.
- Grind the dried material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 1 part of the powder with 2 parts of gelatin and 1 part of glycerin to create a capsule filling.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the prepared mixture using a capsule filling machine at 500 capsules per hour.
6. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm capsules helps with insomnia because they contain a calming compound called rosmarinic acid, which has a sedative effect on the nervous system.
This natural ingredient promotes relaxation and reduces stress levels, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
Additionally, lemon balm's ability to regulate cortisol levels can help alleviate anxiety and restlessness, further enhancing its insomnia-relieving properties.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis capsules that help with insomnia.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that helps with insomnia by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can contribute to improved sleep quality.
- Linalool: A terpene that acts as a sedative and anxiolytic, helping to calm the mind and body, leading to a better night's sleep.
- Hesperidin: A flavonoid glycoside that has a sedative effect, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting a restful night's sleep.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make capsules for insomnia.
- Leaves: They contain high levels of essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, which contribute to their calming effects and help with sleep.
- Roots: They are rich in bioactive compounds that have sedative properties, which aid in promoting relaxation and reducing insomnia symptoms.
- Stems: They contain a high concentration of flavonoids and terpenes, which have been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system and help with sleep regulation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for insomnia.
- Harvest melissa officinalis leaves and flowers at peak potency for best medicinal properties.
- Dry the melissa officinalis leaves and flowers using a low-temperature dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 24 hours.
- Grind the dried melissa officinalis leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mill at 100 grams per minute.
- Mix the ground melissa officinalis powder with a binding agent such as gelatin at a ratio of 70% herb to 30% binder.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the melissa officinalis mixture and seal them using a capsule filler at 500 capsules per hour.
7. Scutellaria lateriflora
Skullcap capsules helps with insomnia because they promote relaxation and calmness in the body.
The herb, Baicalin, contained in these capsules has a sedative effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress that often contribute to difficulty falling asleep.
Additionally, skullcap capsules have been shown to increase the production of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep patterns, leading to improved quality of sleep and increased duration of restful slumber.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Scutellaria lateriflora capsules that help with insomnia.
- Baclofen-like flavonoids: These flavonoids help with insomnia by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, allowing for a restful sleep.
- Scutellarin: Scutellarin, a flavone glycoside, acts as a sedative and helps to reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep.
- Scutellarein: Scutellarein, another flavone glycoside, has been shown to have a sedative effect, which can help to calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of skullcap used to make capsules for insomnia.
- Roots: They are the most commonly used part for insomnia relief due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds.
- Leaves: They are used in capsule form for their sedative properties, helping to calm the mind and body.
- Flowers: They are also used in capsule form for their calming effects, which can aid in falling asleep and improving sleep quality.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic skullcap for insomnia.
- Harvest 30 grams of fresh or dried root of scutellaria lateriflora from a reputable supplier.
- Dry the root in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Grind 1 gram of dried root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powder with 5 grams of vegetable cellulose and 2 grams of silicon dioxide in a bowl.
- Encapsulate the mixture in 100-0 capsules using a capsule machine with a capacity of 50 capsules per minute.
8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice capsules helps with insomnia because they contain the root of the licorice plant, which has been traditionally used to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation.
The capsules work by reducing anxiety and stress levels, making it easier for individuals to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to increase GABA production in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep and wakefulness.
By promoting a sense of calm and relaxation, herbal licorice capsules can help individuals overcome insomnia and improve the quality of their sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with insomnia.
- Saponins: These compounds, particularly glycyrrhizin, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce stress and anxiety, leading to improved sleep quality.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra, such as isorhapontigenin, have antioxidant and sedative effects, which can help regulate sleep patterns and promote relaxation.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids like liquiritin and isoliquiritin may exhibit anxiolytic and hypnotic effects, contributing to a reduction in insomnia symptoms by promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for insomnia.
- Roots: Glycyrrhizin, a primary bioactive compound found in the roots, is used to make capsules for insomnia due to its sedative properties.
- Roots: Saponins, another key compound from the roots, contributes to the sedative effects and helps in reducing stress, promoting sleep.
- Roots: Glycyrrhizin's ability to regulate cortisol levels and promote relaxation also makes the roots a key component in insomnia capsules.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for insomnia.
- Harvest 100g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a trusted supplier or cultivate them in a controlled environment.
- Dry the roots further in a low-temperature oven at 50c for 2 hours to ensure moisture content is below 10%.
- Grind 50g of dried roots into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder for 5 minutes to achieve a uniform texture.
- Mix 5g of the powder with 5g of vegetable cellulose powder and 1g of tapioca starch in a clean bowl.
- Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with the powder mixture using a capsule filling machine and seal securely.
9. Vitis vinifera
Grape capsules helps with insomnia because they contain herbs that promote relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety levels.
The capsules' soothing properties calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Additionally, grape capsules have been shown to regulate sleep-wake cycles, helping to establish a consistent sleep schedule.
As a result, individuals who take these capsules experience improved quality of sleep, reduced fatigue, and increased energy levels during the day.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitis vinifera capsules that help with insomnia.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, help with insomnia by promoting relaxation, reducing inflammation, and regulating the body's sleep-wake cycle.
- Resveratrol: Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound, helps with insomnia by reducing stress, anxiety, and inflammation, and promoting the release of sleep-regulating hormones like melatonin.
- Anthocyanins: Anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants, help with insomnia by reducing oxidative stress, promoting relaxation, and regulating the body's circadian rhythms to improve sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of grape used to make capsules for insomnia.
- Roots: The roots of Vitis vinifera are used to make capsules for insomnia due to their sedative properties.
- Seeds: The seeds of Vitis vinifera are used to make capsules for insomnia as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that can help with sleep regulation.
- Leaves: The leaves of Vitis vinifera are used to make capsules for insomnia due to their antioxidant and sedative effects, which can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic grape for insomnia.
- Harvest vitis vinifera berries in the fall season when they are ripe and fully colored.
- Dry the berries in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
- Grind the dried berries into a fine powder using a spice grinder at high speed for 2 minutes.
- Mix the powder with a binding agent like gelatin in a 4:1 ratio by weight and add water to form a gel-like mixture.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the herbal mixture and seal the capsules using a capsule sealer.
10. Corydalis ambigua
Tanzen capsules helps with insomnia because they promote relaxation and calmness in the body, making it easier to fall asleep.
The herbal extracts in these capsules work together to reduce stress and anxiety levels, calming an overactive mind and soothing a racing heart.
As a result, individuals can enjoy a deeper and more restful sleep, waking up feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Corydalis ambigua capsules that help with insomnia.
- Berberine: This alkaloid compound helps with insomnia by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety through its sedative effects and ability to modulate the body's stress response.
- Corydaline: This alkaloid constituent also helps with insomnia by acting as a sedative and promoting relaxation, which can lead to improved sleep quality and duration.
- Corybulbine: This alkaloid compound may help with insomnia by exerting a sedative effect and potentially modulating the body's sleep-wake cycle, leading to improved sleep quality and reduced sleep disturbances.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tanzen used to make capsules for insomnia.
- Roots: The roots are rich in berberine, which has sedative and anti-anxiety properties that help alleviate insomnia.
- Leaves: The leaves contain alkaloids that promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and induce sleep.
- Stems: The stems are also a source of alkaloids that contribute to the sedative and anti-anxiety effects of Corydalis ambigua.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tanzen for insomnia.
- Harvest 100g of dried corydalis ambigua root material in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested root material in a low-temperature oven at 50c for 2 hours.
- Crush 50g of the dried root material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 5g of the powdered root material with 95g of gelatin and add 50ml of distilled water.
- Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with the herbal mixture and seal with a capsule sealer.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for insomnia?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with insomnia is a blend of melatonin, valerian root, and GABA.
Melatonin helps regulate sleep-wake cycles, while valerian root promotes relaxation and calms the nervous system. GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, reduces anxiety and stress, making it easier to fall asleep. This combination works synergistically to promote deep and restful sleep.
However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplements, as individual results may vary and interactions with medications can occur.
What ailments similar to insomnia are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to insomnia/capsules.html">insomnia/capsules.html">insomnia that are treated with herbal capsules are anxiety, stress, and restlessness.
Valerian root and passionflower have been traditionally used to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep. GABA-rich herbs like chamomile and lemon balm can also help regulate sleep patterns and reduce symptoms of insomnia.
Additionally, adaptogenic herbs such as ashwagandha and rhodiola rosea can help alleviate stress and anxiety that may be contributing to poor sleep quality.