Specific Remedies: The many sleeping remedies known can be selected on the basis of their secondary actions or system affinity. This is explored in the section on hypnotics and nervines. They can also be selected on the basis of their strength, bearing in mind the very subjective nature and individual variability of human response to these herbs. We can very roughly identify three groupings: `Mild' Chamomile, Balm, Linden, Red Clover `Medium' Pasque Flower, Mugwort, Motherwort, Skullcap, Vervain `Strong' Californian Poppy, Hops, Wild Lettuce, Passion Flower, Jamaican Dogwood, Valerian. By selecting herbs that address specific health needs that are compounding the sleep difficulties, better results are obtained than simply going for a strong hypnotic. Thus, for example, an involvement of palpitations would indicate Motherwort. One possible prescription:Passion Flower Valerian equal parts 5ml. of tincture 30 minutes before bedtime. One possible prescription: Insomnia associated with menopausal problems Passion Flower Valerian Motherwort equal parts 5ml. of tincture 30 minutes before bedtime in addition to appropriate daytime treatments. One possible prescription: Insomnia associated with `indigestion' Passion Flower Valerian Mugwort Balm equal parts 7.5ml. of tincture 30 minutes before bedtime in addition to appropriate daytime treatments. An infusion of Chamomile, Linden or Balm at night would be helpful. One possible prescription: Insomnia associated with hypertension and headaches Passion Flower Valerian Linden Cramp Bark equal parts 7.5ml. of tincture 30 minutes before bedtime in addition to appropriate daytime treatments. (refer to the chapter on the cardio-vascular system.) An infusion of Tilia or Matricaria at night would be helpful. One possible prescription: Insomnia associated with depression Passion Flower Valerian St. Johns Wort Mugwort equal parts 7.5ml. of tincture 30 minutes before bedtime in addition to appropriate daytime treatments.Avoid the use of Hops in depression. © David L. Hoffmann B.Sc. (Hons), M.N.I.M.H. From healthy.net Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.