There are many insomnia remedies on the market, both natural and pharmaceutical. Pharmaceutical medications such as Ambien can cause side effects such as daytime drowsiness, diarrhea and even strange nocturnal activities like sleep-eating and driving whilst asleep. To add to the danger, pharmaceutical medications can become addictive and lose their effectiveness over a few weeks. A better choice would be to turn to high potency natural sleep aids that are affordable and safe.

High potency natural sleep aids include Valerian, melatonin and aromatherapy. Valarian is an herb primarily used in Germany, Belgium and in Europe. This sleep aid is not well understood, but it is believed that Valerian contributes to higher levels of GABA. GABA is a neurotransmitter, which helps to calm the mind and body. Valerian can be taken in capsule form or in a tea or extract.

Another high potency natural sleep aid you may have heard of is melatonin. Melatonin is a more popular natural sleep aid than Valerian. Melatonin is a hormone and is found naturally occurring in the body. Serotonin, the hormone responsible for happiness is released by the brain and in turn is converted to melatonin at night, as a person sleeps. Similar to Valerian, melatonin should be take 1 hr to 30 minutes before bed for a high potency sleep aid effect.

Next on our high potency sleep aid list is the very pleasant science of aromatherapy. We all understand the effects of smell when we walk into a house with cookies baking. Positive smells can enhance our mood, relax us and even aggravate us. Aromas have the power to impact the brain, which in turn impacts mood and behavior - such as drowsiness or wakefulness. It is no surprise then that a high potency natural sleep aid can come in the form of scents like lavender and chamomile.

Research supports the sedative effect of lavender. The sleep aid high potency is evidenced in its ability to prolong sleep time, improve depth of sleep and lead to overall daily energy. Part of the high potency sleep aid success is its ability to work fast. Aromas are emitted quickly and experienced almost instantly through smell. The calming sedative effects begin right away. Aromatherapy is a high potency sleep aid that can be used when a person needs quick insomnia relief for a big day.

Health and beauty stores sell essential oils, and the sales staff should be able to steer you in the right direction. Look for lavender, rose, chamomile and other scents you find calming.

To increase the potency of natural sleep aids, combining them in a synergistic blend will have an enhanced effect. Such combinations can increase the effectiveness of these natural ingredients without compromising on safety. However these combinations need to be done by trained natural health practitioners.

Sleep is a natural process of the body. When the body feels disrupted and unable to wind down, it seems likely that a natural remedy should be the first choice. Being gentle with the body and using a high potency natural sleep aid will ensure your safety and a good night sleep.