Natural Sleep Aids for Children

Concerns that America's "special needs" children are being over-medicated with synthetic pharmaceutical medications have led some families to search for natural alternatives. The pediatricians of ADHD, autistic and mentally retarded patients have even made the switch from alpha agonists, which are synthetic medications that sedate and affect the sleep cycle, to natural sleep aids that are derived from herbs.

Chamomile, valerian, passion flower and lemon balm are the most widely used natural sleep aids for children. Use of the passion flower for sedation dates back to the ancient Aztecs and is often administered in the form of a weak tea. Lemon balm and chamomile are also two of the oldest natural sedatives and can also be taken in tea form. Pill forms are also available for each of these sleep aids, but because the pill goes through a manufacturing process, the purer form of the herb is usually preferred.

Natural sleep aids, such as chamomile, valerian, passion flower and lemon balm, reduce restlessness, promote relaxation and decrease the duration of time it takes for a child to fall asleep. Each of the natural sleep aids are also believed to increase the quality of sleep throughout the night, leaving children better rested and less tired the following day.

While the most natural way to administer each of these natural sleep aids to a child is in the form of a weak tea, some parents will prefer to use a pill. Even though many of the natural sleep aids may state similar ingredients on their packaging, each manufacturer has a different dosage specification. It is important to read the natural sleep aid's packaging before giving the product to your child.

Melatonin is increasing in popularity as a natural sleep aid for children with special needs because scientists believe that their bodies do not produce an adequate amount. This may account for some of the sleep difficulties that special needs children face. Melatonin is a hormone that is secreted from the pineal gland in the brain. Although the melatonin that is prescribed to children is synthetic, it is widely believed that it replicates the natural hormone quite effectively. There are companies that sell "pure, natural melatonin," but it is derived from the pineal gland of livestock and some worry that there could be contamination issues.

Because over the counter sleep remedies are not monitored by the FDA in regards to their ingredients or dosage, it is important to do as much research as possible about your sleep aid of choice before administering it to your child. Discussing the different types of natural sleep aids that are available with your child's health care provider is also important before beginning any natural sleep aid regiment.