I found this interesting article on how much sleep we require and how critical it is that we get sufficient sleep. A lack of sleep is a huge problem, if you experience sleeplessness look at http://sleep-answer.com for some insights on natural sleeping remedies and supporting research on the impact of sleep on memory.
Melatonin is referred to as the “hormone of darkness” due to the fact that our bodies only produce this hormone at night. Melatonin has been used as one of a number of natural sleep remedies for some time with success. This hormone has many beneficial qualities and it is believed to help people fall asleep, it is one of the best sleep aid options for short term usage. Several studies conducted have found that most people suffer no ill side effects from taking small doses (less than three mg per day) in the short term. Melatonin causes drowsiness in most who take it, which is great for people who want to get to sleep, but this must be taken into consideration when needing to drive or operate heavy machinery. Melatonin should be taken about thirty minutes before bedtime.
Valerian is a herb native to Europe and Asia, the root has been used extensively for centuries in these countries as a mild tranquilizer and for its natural sleep remedies properties. Clinical studies have been inconclusive as to the benefit of taking valerian before sleep, but individual accounts claim that this herb has helped many suffering from sleeplessness. Valerian root can be brewed as a tea and is also available in capsule form, this herb has a rather strong earthy aroma when brewed which is why many prefer valerian capsules over tea. Valerian root works as a tranquilizer on the nervous system which makes sleep easier to attain, so it is not recommended that it be taken with any other forms of tranquilizers such as alcohol, barbiturates, or opiates. Valerian should be taken an hour before bedtime, the effects of this herb on sleep patterns have been found to be cumulative with many people needing to take it regularly for a couple of weeks. It is not recommended that valerian root be taken for more than three to four months at a time as the long term side effects have yet to be determined.
This herb has a relaxing, sedative effect that leads to sleep without dulling the mind as many other tranquilizers do. The Kava root has been used and brewed into a tea by the native peoples of the Pacific for countless years where it is used to treat mild insomnia and produce sleep. Lately concerns have been raised as to the safety of kava so it should not be taken in excess. As usual, always consult your physician before adding new natural sleep remedies to your nightly routine.
Most herbal remedies are safe to use but some do have harmful side effects, especially if taken in conjunction with other medicines. Please consult your doctor and discuss both the potential risks and benefits before making a final decision. 
If you are looking at sleeping remedies for an undisturbed night’s rest first assess your surroundings. We spend approximately one third of our life asleep, this is essential for proper functioning of our mind and body. If you are having trouble sleeping a first option is to look closely at your sleep environment. If you have pleasant and tidy bedroom you are likely to fall asleep more easily, and have a restful night. A bed must offer the ideal support for your body type along with comfortable pillows and bedding. Avoid stimulating technology such as television, video games, and computers at bedtime. Keep your sleep environment preserved for sleeping only as this will send the body cues and help it prepare for sleep. 
Every parent will attest to the fact that routines rule! Routines are the key to getting infants and young children to bed, but somehow as we grow older we neglect the bed time ritual. A bed time routine is one of the best sleeping remedies as it allows the body and mind the time required to process the events of the day and make the transition from active mode to a restful one that will be receptive to sleep.
Common routines could include dimming the lights at a certain time every night. Activities such as reading, knitting or listening quietly to music have a soporific effect, focusing on the soothing activity as it is a sleep aid all by itself.
Routines are unique to the people who participate in them. The beauty of this sleep remedy is that you can tailor make your routine to suit your preferences. A successful routine is not necessarily what it is comprised of but the level of consistency that is put into it.
One cannot discuss sleeping remedies and not mention the importance of diet. Certain foods and drinks such as coffee, chocolate, and tea contain stimulants and should be avoided before bed due to their caffeine levels but you can enjoy a glass of warm milk or a cup of chamomile tea.
Sleeping pills are the first thing that comes to mind when the subject of the best sleep aid is considered after a poor night’s sleep. There is so much more to sleep aids than this! Here are a few quick and easy ideas to help you conquer your sleeplessness and get a restful night.
· Light pollution is a problem in most cities; it is much easier to get quality restful sleep in a dark room. Try blocking out the light with window treatments designed specifically for this, it can make a big difference in the quality and quantity of your sleep.
· Try using ear plugs to block out the noise around us. Ear plugs are the best sleep aid for blocking out traffic noise or barking dogs, if you find them uncomfortable try to create some white noise. A fan running through the night or even purchasing a white noise machine also helps block ambient noise.
· Another great idea is to create a relaxing bedtime routine; this can be as simple as sitting in bed and reading your favorite book for a while before you are ready to go to sleep.
· Perhaps one of the best sleep tips is to create a calm and restful environment in which to fall asleep. The goal is to create a serene atmosphere; you can accomplish this by de-cluttering your sleep area as clutter stimulates the brain.
Sufficient sleep is one of the most essential needs of the human body. Many wonderful things happen to your body during your sleep cycles, including much needed rest, repair and rejuvenation. Sleep aids are a must if you are having difficulty falling asleep on your own. Whether your sleeplessness is a severe or minor problem there is a best sleep aid out there to suit your needs. If your sleep troubles are minor you can start with the simple sleep aids mentioned above. If your lack of sleep is more advanced it is suggested that you consult your doctor about alternative solutions.
There are many sleeping remedies to choose from, some people find success using meditation, adjusting their sleep routines or their bedroom environment. Unfortunately there will always be a group of people that these sleep help methods don’t help and in that case it is wise to consult your doctor.
If prescription medication is not the sleep answer for you, you may want to look into herbal sleep remedies and other similar sleep aids. The amount of success you will achieve with the various herbal sleep remedies is determined by two factors; how severe your sleeplessness is and your body’s response to the herbal substances. Those with mild cases of sleeping troubles have reported better sleep after taking natural sleep remedies such as melatonin, valerian, and kava. Essential oils such as lavender and chamomile have been found to have sleep-inducing effects, try adding a few drops into your bedtime bath for the ultimate relaxing experience!
If you’re like millions of other people around the world, you are not fond of taking pills of any kind – prescription or non-prescription then introducing herbal sleep remedies might be the answer you’re looking for. Altering one’s regular diet and exercise plan can also have a huge effect on your sleep patterns; one of the best natural sleeping remedies is the simple act of taking part in relaxing activities during the hours prior to bedtime.
The dosages of herbal sleep remedies can vary greatly from one pill to the next so use common sense and speak to your doctor if something does not seem right to you. Just remember to discuss adding these substances to your daily routine with your doctor as they may interfere with prescription medications.
