By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 18, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Sleep Deprivation
Herbal creams for sleep deprivation are topical creams containing natural herbs that promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
These creams work by reducing stress and anxiety, regulating sleep patterns, and promoting a restful night's sleep. Examples include valerian root cream, lavender oil cream, and chamomile cream.
They help individuals with sleep deprivation by reducing symptoms of insomnia and fatigue, leading to improved mood, increased energy, and enhanced overall well-being, ultimately improving daily life and productivity.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for sleep deprivation, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Valeriana officinalis
- 2. Lavandula angustifolia
- 3. Melissa officinalis
- 4. Passiflora incarnata
- 5. Humulus lupulus
- 6. Matricaria chamomilla
- 7. Gelsemium sempervirens
- 8. Tilia platyphyllos
- 9. Centella asiatica
- 10. Borago officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for sleep deprivation?
- What ailments similar to sleep deprivation are treated with herbal creams?
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with sleep deprivation because they contain valerenic acid and valepotriates, which have a sedative and calming effect on the mind and body.
These compounds interact with the brain's neurotransmitters, such as GABA, to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
As a result, valerian creams can help individuals fall asleep faster, sleep more soundly, and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, making them an effective natural remedy for people struggling with sleep deprivation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with sleep deprivation.
- Valerenic acid: This terpene has sedative properties, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can aid in falling asleep.
- Isovaleric acid: This terpene has a sedative effect, reducing muscle tension and promoting a calming effect on the nervous system, making it easier to fall asleep.
- Valeranone: This valerenic acid derivative has a sedative effect, acting on the GABA receptors in the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for sleep deprivation.
- Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis contain a high concentration of valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for its sedative properties.
- Stems: The stems of Valeriana officinalis contain valerenic acid and other bioactive compounds that contribute to its relaxing and sleep-inducing effects.
- Barks: Valeriana officinalis bark contains valerenic acid and other compounds that are used to reduce anxiety and promote a restful night's sleep.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for sleep deprivation.
- Extract 25 grams of dried valeriana officinalis root in 500 milliliters of carrier oil like sweet almond oil.
- Steep the mixture at room temperature for 2-3 weeks shaking daily for optimal extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl discarding the solids.
- Combine 100 grams of the extracted liquid with 100 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of cocoa butter.
- Melt the mixture in a double boiler then pour into containers for cooling and hardening.
2. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with sleep deprivation because of its calming and soothing properties.
The key active compounds, linalool and linalyl acetate, work to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety levels. This allows the body to unwind and prepare for restful sleep. The cooling sensation of the cream on the skin can also help to lower body temperature, a natural indicator of sleepiness.
Regular use of Lavandula angustifolia creams can lead to improved sleep quality, helping to alleviate the strain of sleep deprivation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with sleep deprivation.
- Linalool: A terpene found in Lavandula angustifolia, linalool has a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep.
- Linalyl acetate: A terpene ester also present in the herb, linalyl acetate has a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing stress and promoting a peaceful sleep environment.
- Lavandulol: A terpene with sedative properties, lavandulol helps to regulate sleep patterns by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for sleep deprivation.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their calming properties, which help to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
- Flowers: Flowers are used for their sedative and anti-anxiety effects, which aid in inducing a restful sleep.
- Seeds: Seeds are used for their calming and soothing properties, which help to reduce insomnia and promote better sleep quality.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for sleep deprivation.
- Harvest 100g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers from a clean and dry environment to prevent contamination.
- Mix the dried flowers with 50g of sweet almond oil in a double boiler to create a liquid solution.
- Steep the mixture for 4 hours at a temperature of 70 degrees celsius to allow the herbal properties to infuse.
- Strain the liquid solution through a cheesecloth into a clean container to separate the particles from the oil.
- Whip 100g of distilled water with 20g of beeswax and the strained herbal solution to create a smooth and creamy texture.
3. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with sleep deprivation because of its unique ability to calm the mind and relax the body.
The antispasmodic and sedative properties of lemon balm help to soothe the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress that can disrupt sleep.
Additionally, lemon balm's ability to reduce inflammation and promote a sense of relaxation can help individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, leading to a restful night's sleep and improved overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with sleep deprivation.
- Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid helps reduce stress and anxiety levels, promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
- Citrals: The citral compounds present in Melissa officinalis have a sedative and calming effect, helping to regulate the body's sleep-wake cycle and reduce insomnia.
- Linalool: A terpene found in Melissa officinalis, linalool has a soothing effect on the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting relaxation and deeper sleep.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for sleep deprivation.
- Leaves: Rich in essential oils, Melissa leaves are commonly used to create sleep-promoting creams due to their calming and sedative properties.
- Flowers: The flowers of Melissa officinalis are rich in apigenin, a natural compound that has a sedative effect on the nervous system, making them a popular choice for sleep creams.
- Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis contain a high concentration of essential oils, which are often used to create sleep-promoting creams that help to relax the mind and body.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for sleep deprivation.
- Harvest 20g of melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in a clean container on a sunny day.
- Mix 20g of melissa officinalis leaves and flowers with 200ml of cold-pressed oil in a clean glass jar for 2 hours.
- Steep the mixture in a double boiler at 60°c for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Add 50ml of distilled water and 10g of beeswax to the mixture and heat it in a double boiler until melted.
4. Passiflora incarnata
Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, creams helps with sleep deprivation because they contain high levels of the sleep-promoting compound passifloric acid.
This herb has been traditionally used to calm the mind and body, reducing anxiety and stress that can disrupt sleep patterns. By applying a topical cream, the passifloric acid is absorbed into the skin, promoting relaxation and tranquility, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
This natural approach can help regulate sleep patterns and improve overall sleep quality.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata creams that help with sleep deprivation.
- Harmane: Harmane is a phenolic alkaloid that helps with sleep deprivation by acting as a central nervous system depressant, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have a sedative effect, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters involved in sleep regulation.
- Isovitexin-4'-o-glucoside: This compound has been shown to possess sedative and anxiolytic properties, contributing to the relaxation and sleep-promoting effects of Passiflora incarnata creams.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make creams for sleep deprivation.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that have a sedative effect, contributing to relaxation and improved sleep.
- Roots: The root extracts have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate insomnia and other sleep disorders.
- Seeds: The seeds contain a high concentration of harmine and other alkaloids, which have a sedative and sleep-promoting effect.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for sleep deprivation.
- Harvest 50g of passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves when they are in full bloom and dry them immediately.
- Combine the dried passiflora incarnata with 100ml of carrier oil in a double boiler and heat it to 60c for 2 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 50g of beeswax to the oil mixture.
- Melt the beeswax in the oil mixture over low heat and stir until it reaches a temperature of 40c.
- Pour the mixture into small containers and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.
5. Humulus lupulus
Humulus lupulus, also known as hops, creams helps with sleep deprivation because of its natural sedative properties.
The herb contains flavonoids and essential oils that promote relaxation and calmness, reducing anxiety and stress that can disrupt sleep patterns. The cream's soothing effects can also help to quiet the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
As a result, individuals can experience improved sleep quality and duration with the use of herbal Humulus lupulus creams.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus creams that help with sleep deprivation.
- Humulone: A sesquiterpene that contributes to the sedative and anxiolytic effects of hops, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation, leading to improved sleep quality.
- Isohumulone: Another sesquiterpene with a similar sedative and anxiolytic effect to humulone, which helps to regulate sleep patterns and reduce anxiety-related sleep disturbances.
- 8-prenylnaringenin: A prenylated flavonoid that has been shown to have a sedative effect, reducing anxiety and stress, and promoting relaxation, ultimately leading to improved sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make creams for sleep deprivation.
- Flowers: They contain humulone, a compound that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety, helping to improve sleep quality.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help reduce stress and promote a peaceful sleep environment.
- Seeds: They contain a high concentration of saponins, which may help to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, contributing to better sleep.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for sleep deprivation.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried humulus lupulus flowers on a warm sunny day in late summer.
- Combine the dried flowers with 50 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes stirring occasionally until the beeswax melts completely.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove any impurities.
- Allow the mixture to cool and solidify completely before transferring it to small jars for storage.
6. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with sleep deprivation because it contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
Chamomile's soothing effects can calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm, leading to improved sleep quality and a better night's rest.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to promote a restful night's sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with sleep deprivation.
- Apigenin: An apigenin is a flavonoid that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can help individuals with sleep deprivation.
- Matricaria chamomilla terpenoids: The terpenoids in Matricaria chamomilla, including cis-trans-β-farnesene and β-bisabolol, have anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, which can help reduce stress and promote a restful night's sleep.
- Chamazulene: Chamazulene, an isobezalechalcone, exhibits a mild sedative effect and has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it beneficial for individuals suffering from sleep deprivation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for sleep deprivation.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high content of apigenin, a flavonoid with a sedative effect.
- Seeds: Seeds are also used, as they contain a similar composition to the flowers, including apigenin and other compounds that promote relaxation.
- Leaves: Leaves are sometimes used, although to a lesser extent, as they contain smaller amounts of apigenin and other active compounds that help with sleep.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for sleep deprivation.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers at peak potency for maximum effectiveness.
- Infuse 1 cup of flowers in 2 cups of boiling distilled water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the infused liquid through cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove solids.
- Add 1/2 cup of distilled water to 1/4 cup of beeswax and heat in a double boiler to melt.
- Combine the herbal infusion with 1/4 cup of jojoba oil and the melted beeswax mixture to create cream.
7. Gelsemium sempervirens
Gelsemium sempervirens, also known as yellow jessamine, creams helps with sleep deprivation because of its calming and relaxing properties.
The herb contains compounds that promote a sense of tranquility, reducing anxiety and stress that often disrupt sleep patterns. Its sedative effects also help regulate the body's internal clock, promoting a restful and restorative sleep.
Additionally, Gelsemium sempervirens creams can help alleviate muscle tension and pain, creating an ideal environment for a good night's sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gelsemium sempervirens creams that help with sleep deprivation.
- Gelsemine: An alkaloid, gelsemine has sedative and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep.
- Gelsemic acid: A phenolic compound, gelsemic acid is known to have a sedative effect and can help reduce anxiety and stress, leading to improved sleep quality.
- Gelseminine: An alkaloid, gelseminine has been shown to have a sedative and hypnotic effect, which can help induce a restful sleep and improve sleep duration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow jessamine used to make creams for sleep deprivation.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of gelsemine, a compound believed to have sedative properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used to make creams for sleep deprivation, as they contain similar compounds to the roots, providing a potential alternative or complementary remedy.
- Stems: The stems, although less commonly used than the roots and leaves, may be used in some preparations due to their residual gelsemine content.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow jessamine for sleep deprivation.
- Harvest 100g of fresh gelsemium sempervirens leaves and flowers at dawn when the dew is still present.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for 7-10 days to remove moisture.
- Steep 30g of dried gelsemium sempervirens in 500ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2-3 hours.
- Mix 10g of the strained oil with 20g of beeswax and 20g of coconut oil to create a smooth cream.
8. Tilia platyphyllos
Tilia platyphyllos, also known as broad-leaved lime, creams helps with sleep deprivation because of its calming properties and ability to promote relaxation.
The cream contains compounds like tiliroside, which has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels. By soothing the mind and body, Tilia platyphyllos creams create a peaceful environment, making it easier to fall asleep. Additionally, the natural anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce muscle tension, further contributing to a restful night's sleep.
This results in improved sleep quality and duration.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos creams that help with sleep deprivation.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, contributing to improved sleep quality.
- Terpenes: These volatile compounds have sedative and calming effects, which can help decrease anxiety and promote a restful sleep.
- Saponins: These compounds have a mild sedative effect and can help reduce symptoms of insomnia, promoting a more peaceful and restorative sleep.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make creams for sleep deprivation.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas and infusions for their calming effects, which can help with sleep deprivation.
- Buds: They are used to make infusions and teas for their sedative and calming properties, which can aid in relaxation and sleep.
- Flowers: They are used to make teas, infusions, and tinctures for their sedative and calming effects, which can help with sleep and relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for sleep deprivation.
- Harvest 30 grams of dried tilia platyphyllos flowers at the peak of blooming season.
- Steep 20 grams of the dried flowers in 200 milliliters of hot water for 15 minutes.
- Strain the infused liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean container.
- Mix the strained liquid with 100 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
9. Centella asiatica
Centella asiatica, also known as asiatic pennywort, creams helps with sleep deprivation because of its unique ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
The cream's active compounds, such as asiatic acid and madecassic acid, have been shown to calm the nervous system and improve sleep quality. Additionally, Centella asiatica's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe the mind and body, creating an ideal environment for restful sleep.
As a result, individuals who use these creams often report improved sleep patterns and a deeper sense of relaxation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Centella asiatica creams that help with sleep deprivation.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, particularly asiaticoside and madecassoside, have anti-anxiety and sedative effects, which can help alleviate sleep deprivation by reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
- Saponins: Saponins, such as centella saponins, have been shown to have a sedative effect on the central nervous system, which can help improve sleep quality and duration in individuals with sleep deprivation.
- Madecassic acid: Madecassic acid has been found to have a sedative effect and can help reduce anxiety and stress, which are common factors contributing to sleep deprivation, thereby promoting better sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of asiatic pennywort used to make creams for sleep deprivation.
- Leaves: The leaves of Centella asiatica are the most used part for sleep deprivation creams because they are rich in triterpenoids and other compounds that have been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Centella asiatica are used in sleep deprivation creams due to their content of adaptogenic compounds that help the body adapt to stress and promote a good night's sleep.
- Roots: The roots of Centella asiatica are used in sleep deprivation creams as they contain a range of bioactive compounds that have been shown to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic asiatic pennywort for sleep deprivation.
- Harvest fresh centella asiatica leaves and flowers when they are at their peak potency and fragrance.
- Dry the centella asiatica leaves and flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours.
- Combine 50 grams of dried centella asiatica leaves and flowers with 100 grams of cocoa butter in a saucepan.
- Heat the saucepan over low heat while stirring the mixture for 30 minutes until it reaches 120°f.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and transfer it to a clean glass jar for storage and use.
10. Borago officinalis
Borago officinalis, also known as borage, creams helps with sleep deprivation because it contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that promote relaxation and calmness.
The cream's soothing effects help to reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
Additionally, borage has been shown to have a sedative effect, helping to regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle and improve the quality of sleep, leading to a restful and rejuvenating night's sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Borago officinalis creams that help with sleep deprivation.
- Saponins: These triterpenoid glycosides have been shown to have sedative effects, potentially helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can aid in addressing sleep deprivation.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have been found to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help mitigate the effects of sleep deprivation, including oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Boragine alkaloids: Boragine alkaloids, such as boragine and boragine glycosides, have been reported to exhibit anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and sedative effects, which may help alleviate stress and promote better sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of borage used to make creams for sleep deprivation.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, which may help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Seeds: They are used because they contain a significant amount of boragine, a compound that may have a calming effect and help individuals fall asleep.
- Flowers: They are used due to their soothing properties and potential to reduce anxiety, which can be beneficial for individuals struggling with sleep deprivation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic borage for sleep deprivation.
- Extract 100g of dried borago officinalis flowers and leaves in 500ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids after 2 weeks.
- Combine 10g of beeswax and 20g of shea butter in a double boiler to melt them for 10 minutes.
- Add the borago officinalis infused oil to the melted beeswax and shea butter mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into small glass jars and let it cool and set for at least 30 minutes.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for sleep deprivation?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with sleep deprivation is a blend of lavender, chamomile, and valerian root creams.
Lavender promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety, while chamomile calms the mind and soothes the skin. Valerian root, a natural sedative, regulates sleep patterns and improves the quality of sleep. Applying these creams topically can help alleviate symptoms of sleep deprivation, including fatigue, stress, and insomnia.
This combination works synergistically to promote a restful night's sleep and improve overall well-being.
What ailments similar to sleep deprivation are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to sleep deprivation that are treated with herbal creams are anxiety, stress, and restlessness.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like lavender, chamomile, and valerian root are used to promote relaxation and calmness, helping to soothe irritability and insomnia.
These natural remedies can provide a calming effect on the mind and body, alleviating symptoms of nervous tension and promoting a sense of tranquility.