10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Insomnia

Herbal tinctures for insomnia are concentrated liquid extracts made from plant-based herbs that have been traditionally used to promote relaxation, calmness, and improved sleep quality.

These natural remedies help alleviate symptoms of insomnia by soothing the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress levels, and regulating the body's internal clock. Examples of herbal tinctures that have shown promise in improving sleep include Valerian root, Passionflower, and Lemon balm.

By incorporating these tinctures into their daily routine, individuals can expect to wake up feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to take on the day with increased energy and mental clarity.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for insomnia, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian tinctures helps with insomnia because they contain compounds that interact with the brain's GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

This calming effect allows individuals to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Additionally, valerian root has a sedative property that helps quiet the mind and body, making it easier to drift off to sleep.

As a natural sleep aid, herbal valerian tinctures can be used as a safe and effective solution for improving sleep quality and reducing insomnia symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis tinctures that help with insomnia.

• Valerenic acid: This sesquiterpene acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which helps increase the activity of GABA (a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety) and subsequently induces a calming effect, aiding in sleep.
• Valerenol: This sesquiterpene has been shown to have a sedative effect, which is likely due to its ability to increase the activity of GABA in the brain, leading to a decrease in anxiety and an improvement in sleep quality.
• Isovaleric acid: This compound has a sedative effect and has been shown to increase the activity of GABA in the brain, which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, ultimately leading to improved sleep.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make tinctures for insomnia.

• Roots: Valerian roots are the primary part used to make tinctures for insomnia due to their high concentration of valerenic acids, which promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
• Stems: Valerian stems contain smaller amounts of valerenic acids and other compounds that contribute to the plant's sedative properties, making them a secondary choice for insomnia tinctures.
• Leaves: Valerian leaves have been used in some herbal remedies for insomnia, although they contain less valerenic acids and other sleep-promoting compounds compared to roots and stems.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for insomnia.

1. Harvest valeriana officinalis roots and rhizomes in the fall when the plant is dormant for 3 weeks.
2. Dry the roots and rhizomes in a temperature-controlled environment at 30 degrees celsius for 2 weeks.
3. Chop the dried roots and rhizomes into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
4. Soak 250 grams of chopped roots and rhizomes in 750 milliliters of 45% ethanol for 2 weeks.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and bottle the tincture in dark glass containers for storage.

2. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop tinctures helps with insomnia because they contain flavonoids, which have a sedative effect on the nervous system.

The herb Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, has been used for centuries to treat anxiety and promote relaxation. When taken as a tincture, maypop extracts can help calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

Additionally, maypop's GABA-enhancing properties can regulate brain activity, leading to improved sleep quality and duration.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with insomnia.

• Harmane: Harmane is a beta-carboline alkaloid that acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which helps to increase the activity of neurotransmitters responsible for inducing sleep.
• Isophytol: Isophytol is a terpene that exhibits sedative and anxiolytic properties, contributing to a calming effect that can help alleviate insomnia symptoms.
• Passiflorine: Passiflorine is a flavonoid glycoside that has been shown to possess sedative and hypnotic properties, which can help regulate sleep patterns and improve sleep quality.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for insomnia.

• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, and other compounds that promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
• Stems: Contain passifloric acid, which has a sedative effect and can help with sleep.
• Roots: Contain a combination of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides, that contribute to their sedative and sleep-inducing properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for insomnia.

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves on a sunny day.
2. Dry the harvested material in a single layer at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 pound of dried passiflora incarnata with 4 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

3. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with insomnia because its calming properties can soothe an overactive mind, promoting a peaceful sleep environment.

The herb's ability to relax muscles and quiet the nervous system allows individuals to drift off to sleep more easily, reducing symptoms of restlessness and anxiety that often plague those suffering from insomnia.

Additionally, lemon balm's sedative effects help regulate sleep patterns, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with insomnia.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps with insomnia by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and acting as a natural sedative.
• Linalool: A terpene that helps with insomnia by inducing sleep and reducing stress levels due to its sedative and calming effects.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that helps with insomnia by reducing inflammation, promoting relaxation, and regulating sleep patterns.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for insomnia.

• Leaves: Melissa officinalis leaves are used to make tinctures for insomnia due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly linalool, which has sedative properties.
• Flowers: Melissa officinalis flowers are used to make tinctures for insomnia because they contain a high amount of melissic acid, which has a calming effect on the nervous system.
• Roots: Melissa officinalis roots are used to make tinctures for insomnia due to their rich content of alkaloids, such as rosmarinic acid, which has a sedative and sleep-promoting effect.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for insomnia.

1. Harvest the melissa officinalis leaves during the peak summer months for optimal oil content and flavor.
2. Dry the melissa leaves using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
3. Use a 1:2 ratio of dried melissa leaves to 95 percent ethanol for a 1000ml tincture.
4. Steep the melissa leaves in the ethanol mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and bottle the melissa officinalis tincture in dark glass containers.

4. Gelsemium sempervirens

Yellow jessamine tinctures helps with insomnia because of its unique ability to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation.

The herb's active compounds, including flavonoids and terpenes, work synergistically to reduce anxiety and stress levels, making it easier to fall asleep. Additionally, yellow jessamine has a sedative effect on the brain, helping to regulate sleep patterns and increase the quality of rest.

By promoting a peaceful and calm state, yellow jessamine tinctures can help individuals overcome insomnia and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gelsemium sempervirens tinctures that help with insomnia.

• Gelsemine: As an alkaloid, gelsemine helps with insomnia by acting as a natural sedative and reducing anxiety, promoting relaxation and calmer sleep.
• Gelsemidine: A phenolic alkaloid, gelsemidine contributes to the sedative properties of Gelsemium sempervirens, helping to reduce stress and promote a peaceful sleep environment.
• Gelsevorine: Another phenolic alkaloid, gelsevorine is thought to enhance the sedative effects of gelsemine and gelsemidine, further supporting the reduction of anxiety and promotion of restful sleep.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yellow jessamine used to make tinctures for insomnia.

• Roots: They contain the highest concentration of active compounds, including gelsemine, which is responsible for the plant's sedative properties.
• Leaves: They also contain gelsemine and other alkaloids, making them a viable alternative to roots for insomnia relief.
• Stems: Although less potent than roots and leaves, stems still contain some gelsemine and other active compounds, making them a lesser-used but still effective option.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow jessamine for insomnia.

1. Harvest 100 grams of gelsemium sempervirens roots and stems in the springtime when it is in full bloom.
2. Clean the harvested material thoroughly with distilled water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Use a glass jar and add 500 milliliters of 35% ethanol to the clean material.
4. Steep the material in the ethanol solution for 14 days in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the solution through a cheesecloth and bottle the resulting tincture in dark glass containers.

5. Humulus lupulus

Hops tinctures helps with insomnia because it contains prenylflavonoids, compounds that have a sedative effect on the nervous system.

These compounds interact with GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety levels, making it easier to fall asleep. Additionally, hops tinctures also have anxiolytic properties, which help to calm the mind and body, further enhancing sleep quality.

By addressing both physical and mental tension, herbal hops tinctures can help individuals achieve a restful night's sleep, leading to improved overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus tinctures that help with insomnia.

• Lupulone: A sesquiterpene, lupulone has sedative and anxiolytic properties, which can help reduce stress and anxiety that may contribute to insomnia.
• Humulone: Another sesquiterpene, humulone has been shown to have a sedative effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing symptoms of insomnia.
• Xanthohumol: A prenylated chalcone, xanthohumol has been found to have a sedative and hypnotic effect, which can help regulate sleep patterns and improve the quality of sleep.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make tinctures for insomnia.

• Flowers: The flowers are used to make tinctures for insomnia due to their high content of essential oils, specifically humulone and lupulone, which have sedative properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their sedative and analgesic properties, which help in promoting relaxation and reducing stress, making them suitable for insomnia relief.
• Stems: The stems of Humulus lupulus contain flavonoids and other compounds that contribute to their sedative effects, making them a useful component in insomnia tinctures.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for insomnia.

1. Gather 25g of dried humulus lupulus flowers and 75% ethanol to create tincture base.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 500ml of 75% ethanol in a clean glass container.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container.
5. Store the final tincture in a dark glass bottle with a dropper top and label it clearly.

6. Scutellaria lateriflora

Skullcap tinctures helps with insomnia because it has a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

The herb's flavonoids and sesquiterpenes work to calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Additionally, skullcap's ability to regulate cortisol levels can help reduce stress and promote a restful night's sleep.

As a result, people who use herbal skullcap tinctures may find themselves sleeping more soundly and waking up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Scutellaria lateriflora tinctures that help with insomnia.

• Baclofen-like flavonoids: These compounds, such as baicalein and baicalin, have a sedative effect by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
• Neurosteroids: Skullcap contains neurosteroids like baicalein, which may have a sedative effect by acting on the GABA receptor and reducing excitatory neurotransmitter release, ultimately leading to a calming effect.
• Flavone glycosides: Flavone glycosides like baicalein and baicalin in Skullcap may also have a sedative effect by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can help alleviate insomnia symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of skullcap used to make tinctures for insomnia.

• Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and iridoids, which contribute to their sedative properties.
• Leaves: Leaves are a secondary option, often used when roots are not available, and contain similar bioactive compounds, providing a similar effect.
• Flowers: They are sometimes used due to their mild sedative properties, but are less potent than roots and leaves, and may be added to root-based tinctures for enhanced flavor and aroma.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic skullcap for insomnia.

1. Harvest scutellaria lateriflora flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for 1-2 weeks.
3. Combine 1 part dried scutellaria lateriflora with 2 parts high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks shaking the jar occasionally.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the plant material.

7. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender tinctures helps with insomnia because it promotes a sense of calm and relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

The herbal extract has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress levels, which are common underlying causes of insomnia.

Additionally, lavender's sedative properties help regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, allowing individuals to drift off into a peaceful slumber and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with insomnia.

• Linalool: This terpene acts as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, thereby helping to induce sleep.
• Linalyl acetate: Similar to linalool, this terpene also acts as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can contribute to improved sleep quality.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has been shown to have sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to reduce stress and anxiety that can lead to insomnia.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for insomnia.

• Flowers: They contain the highest concentration of linalool and linalyl acetate, which are key essential oils responsible for the calming effects of lavender.
• Leaves: They also contain these essential oils, making them a viable alternative to flowers for tinctures.
• Stems: They contain some of the essential oils, although in smaller quantities compared to flowers and leaves, but can still be used for tinctures.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for insomnia.

1. Harvest 1 part of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with a total of 10 parts of carrier solvent in a ratio.
2. Combine the dried flowers with the carrier solvent in a clean glass jar with a lid.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Store the final herbal tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.

8. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with insomnia because they promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

The apigenin in chamomile binds to GABA receptors in the brain, calming the nervous system and soothing the mind. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce cortisol levels, allowing the body to wind down and prepare for a restful night's sleep.

As a result, individuals who use chamomile tinctures before bed often experience improved sleep quality, increased energy, and a sense of refreshed wakefulness upon waking.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with insomnia.

• Apigenin: Apigenin is a flavonoid that acts as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep.
• Α-bisabolol: α-bisabolol is a sesquiterpene that has sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce restlessness associated with insomnia.
• Luteolin: Luteolin is a flavonoid that has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress, which are common factors contributing to insomnia.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for insomnia.

• Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part due to their high content of apigenin, an antioxidant that promotes relaxation and calms the mind.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used as they contain apigenin and other flavonoids that help to reduce anxiety and promote sleep.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for insomnia.

1. Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning when they are at their peak potency.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a warm and well-ventilated area for 7 to 14 days.
3. Combine 1 part of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids.

9. Vitex agnus castus

Chaste tree tinctures helps with insomnia because it targets the body's natural hormonal balance, particularly estrogen and progesterone levels.

As a natural adaptogen, chaste tree tincture works to regulate the body's response to stress, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety that can disrupt sleep patterns.

Additionally, its ability to stimulate the production of melatonin, a hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles, helps to promote a deeper and more restful sleep, leading to improved insomnia relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitex agnus castus tinctures that help with insomnia.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common causes of insomnia, by interacting with the body's neurotransmitters and promoting relaxation.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Vitex agnus castus have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help regulate sleep patterns and improve the quality of sleep.
• Rosmarinic acid: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, rosmarinic acid in Vitex agnus castus helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that can contribute to insomnia, promoting a restful and rejuvenating sleep.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chaste tree used to make tinctures for insomnia.

• Flowers: They are used to make tinctures for insomnia due to their high concentration of iridoids, which have a sedative and calming effect on the nervous system.
• Seeds: They contain vitexin, a flavonoid with sedative and relaxing properties that can help alleviate insomnia symptoms.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and iridoids, which have a calming and sedative effect, making them useful for treating insomnia.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chaste tree for insomnia.

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of dried vitex agnus castus flowers at the peak of flowering for optimal potency.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight for a strong tincture.
3. Steep the mixture in a glass container for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight.
4. Strain the liquid mixture through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the plant material.
5. Store the tincture in the refrigerator and allow it to mature for 2-6 weeks before consumption.

10. Corydalis cava

Corydal tinctures helps with insomnia because they contain a blend of herbs that work synergistically to promote relaxation and calmness.

The tincture's sedative properties help slow down the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Additionally, the herbal ingredients have anti-anxiety and stress-reducing effects, which can alleviate racing thoughts and worries that often keep individuals awake at night.

By promoting a sense of relaxation and calmness, corydal tinctures can help improve sleep quality and duration, leaving users feeling refreshed and rejuvenated in the morning.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Corydalis cava tinctures that help with insomnia.

• Corydaline: This alkaloid is believed to help with insomnia by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, allowing for a restful sleep.
• Corynoline: Similar to corydaline, corynoline is thought to have a sedative effect, helping to calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep.
• Benzylisoquinoline alkaloids: These alkaloids are believed to have a central nervous system depressant effect, which can help reduce stress and anxiety, leading to improved sleep quality.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of corydal used to make tinctures for insomnia.

• Roots: Rich in alkaloids, specifically corydaline, which have sedative properties.
• Rhyzomes: Similar to roots, rhyzomes also contain corydaline, contributing to their sedative effects.
• Leaves: Leaves of Corydalis cava contain corydaline and other alkaloids, which help to promote relaxation and reduce insomnia.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic corydal for insomnia.

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh corydalis cava root in the early morning after the dew has dried off slowly.
2. Chop the harvested root into small pieces using a sharp knife and then dry them in a warm oven at 100°f for 1-2 hours.
3. Combine the dried root pieces with 2 parts of 80-proof vodka or everclear in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar every 2-3 days to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar discarding the solids completely.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for insomnia?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with insomnia is valerian root, lavender, and passionflower.

Valerian root promotes relaxation and reduces stress, while lavender calms the mind and body, preparing it for sleep. Passionflower soothes anxiety and promotes a restful night's sleep. Taking a combination of these tinctures 30 minutes before bedtime can help regulate sleep patterns and improve the quality of sleep.

A general ratio of 20-30 drops of valerian root, 10-20 drops of lavender, and 10-20 drops of passionflower per night is recommended.

What ailments similar to insomnia are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to insomnia/tinctures.html">insomnia/tinctures.html">insomnia that are treated with herbal tinctures are restless leg syndrome, anxiety, and stress-induced sleep disorders.

Herbal remedies like valerian root, passionflower, and lemon balm have been traditionally used to calm the mind and body, promoting relaxation and improved sleep quality.

Other herbs such as chamomile and lavender can also help soothe nerves and induce a sense of tranquility, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.