(5) Insomnia

摘要

Around one third of adults experience insomnia, and prevalence increases with increasing age.~1 Many adults with insomnia do not seek treatment from a physician and instead, may self-treat with over-the-counter medicines, including herbal medicinal products. Research on herbs traditionally used to aid sleep has focused mainly on the effects of valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.).~2 Several other herb, such as hops (Humulus lupulus L.), passionflower (Passiflora incarnta L.), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) and Jamaica dogwood (Piscidia erythrina L.) are reputed to have hypnotic effects, but have been subject to little scientific investigation.~2,3 Most of these herbs are also reputed to have sedative effects and have been used particularly for "nervous sleeping disorders".