Herbal Action
Sedative
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What it does
Reduces sympathetic nervous system activity, enabling rest and sleep.
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General indications
Insomnia, extreme stress.
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Shop our Sedative Herb Range
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Mystic Mix
Vendor:Happy Herb CoRegular price From $29.50 AUDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Passionflower
Vendor:Happy Herb CoRegular price From $17.50 AUDRegular priceUnit price / per
Sedative Frequently Asked Questions
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Which herbs should I use for sleep?
Which herbs should I use for sleep?
We have many herbs for sleep that work great on their own or in a blend. The blended teas we offer are gentle and useful when you don't know which is the exact herb to use, but if you want to learn more about the different actions of each sleep herb that would suit your condition, then we can guide you through that.
Below is a quick reference for you, or view the herb profile for further information and FAQs.
Ashwagandha - Promotes sound sleep, regular use not a quick fix.
Passionflower - Sedation and relaxing the nervous system.
Valerian - Sedation, relaxing.
Mulungu - Our most powerful sedating herb, may lead to next day drowsiness.
Skullcap - When you have a busy mind.
California Poppy - Always useful for sleep, especially when pain is the issue.
Hops - Restlessness and anxiety.
Wild Lettuce - Sedating and pain relieving.
Lemon Balm - When low mood is causing sleeplessness.
Blue Lily - Dreamy, relaxing.
Kava - Relaxing and sedating. (Particularly our Borogoru strain)
Chamomile - Gentle relaxant before bed. Soothing and nice.
Lavender - Gentle relaxant before bed. Fragrant and nice.
When should I use Valerian for sleep?
When should I use Valerian for sleep?
Valerian Root has anti-spasmodic, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), hypnotic, and sedative properties, making it a highly effective tool for insomnia. It acts as a muscle relaxant and mild tranquiliser, resulting in a feeling of ‘floating in the air’. According to scientific research, extracts of the root appear to affect the GABA neurotransmitter receptor in mammalian nervous systems; this receptor system is the same system affected by sedative benzodiazepine drugs. Valerian can therefore likely be used as a safer alternative to benzodiazepines, assisting with treatment of stress, tension, anxiety, and insomnia.
When should I use Ashwagandha for sleep?
When should I use Ashwagandha for sleep?
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress. This herb can be particularly helpful for those who struggle with sleep due to anxiety or stress. It’s available in various forms, including dried root, powder, capsules and teas. Regular use of Ashwagandha may support better sleep by lowering cortisol levels and promoting a sense of calm and promotes a sound sleep. It's not a quick fix but is great to add to your daily routine if you are having sleep issues.
When should I use Hops as an alcohol alternative?
When should I use Hops as an alcohol alternative?
Use Hops as an alcohol alternative when you want to relax deeply, ease tension, and prepare for rest—without reaching for a drink. It’s especially helpful for:
- Evening wind-downs, particularly after a stressful day.
- Social settings where you want a calming, grounding effect without sedation.
- Sleep support, when you’re feeling restless or wired but tired.
Hops has a bitter, beer-like flavour and sedative properties, making it a natural fit for mimicking the relaxing vibe of alcohol—perfect for winding down in a mellow, herbal way.
When should I use Hops for sleep?
When should I use Hops for sleep?
Hops are most commonly associated with brewing beer, but they also have a long history of being used as a natural remedy for sleep disorders. The flowers of the hop plant contain compounds that have sedative effects, making them particularly effective in reducing restlessness and anxiety, both of which can interfere with sleep. Hops are often combined with Valerian root in herbal teas and supplements to create a powerful, natural sleep aid. A warm cup of hops tea before bed can help calm your nervous system and prepare you for a deep, restorative sleep.
When should I use Lavender for sleep?
When should I use Lavender for sleep?
Lavender is famous for its calming scent, and research shows that it can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. You can use Lavender in various forms, add to your favourite sleepy tea, enjoy alone as a tea, place under your pillow, or add it to your bath. We would suggest using it when wishing to gently relax before sleep, not necessarily when you are dealing with Insomnia or a series sleep issue.