INSOMNIA AND HOMEOPATHY

INSOMNIA AND HOMEOPATHY

Written by

Dr. Deepak Sharma

BHMS, MD, Ph.D. (Scholar)

Homeopathic Physician and Educator

Founder – Orbit Clinics

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep. It can be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic) and can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Here are some common causes, risk factors, and symptoms of insomnia:

Causes:

• Stress, anxiety, or depression
• Environmental factors such as noise, light, or temperature
• Medical conditions such as chronic pain, asthma, or gastrointestinal problems
• Certain medications or substances like caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine
• Disruptions to regular sleep schedule, such as jet lag or shift work

Risk factors:

• Age (insomnia is more common in older adults)
• Gender (women are more likely to experience insomnia)
• Family history of insomnia
• Mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression
• Chronic medical conditions
• Substance abuse or addiction

Symptoms:

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Difficulty staying asleep
• Waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep
• Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
• Difficulty concentrating or performing daily tasks
• Irritability or mood disturbances
• Headaches or gastrointestinal problems

Assessment of insomnia:

1. How long does it typically take you to fall asleep?
2. How many hours of sleep do you get each night?
3. How often do you wake up during the night?
4. How long do you stay awake when you wake up during the night?
5. Do you feel rested and refreshed when you wake up in the morning?
6. How often do you feel tired or fatigued during the day?
7. How often do you nap during the day?
8. Do you feel anxious or stressed before going to bed?
9. How often do you consume caffeine or alcohol in the evening?
10. How often do you exercise during the day?
11. Do you have any physical discomfort that keeps you awake at night?
12. Do you have any medical conditions that may be contributing to your insomnia?
13. How often do you use electronic devices before going to bed?
14. How often do you follow a consistent sleep schedule?
15. Have you tried any strategies or treatments to improve your sleep, and have they been effective?

Investigations:

There are no specific blood investigations for insomnia, as insomnia is a symptom rather than a disease. However, there are some blood tests that can be done to check for underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to insomnia. These tests include:

1. Thyroid function tests: Thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can cause insomnia.
2. Complete blood count (CBC): CBC can detect anemia, which can cause insomnia.
3. Blood glucose level: High or low blood sugar levels can cause insomnia.
4. Liver function tests: Liver disease can cause insomnia.
5. Kidney function tests: Kidney disease can cause insomnia.
6. C-reactive protein (CRP): Elevated CRP levels may indicate inflammation, which can cause insomnia.
7. Vitamin D level: Low vitamin D levels have been associated with insomnia.

Diet:

Diet can play a role in managing insomnia, and there are several foods and habits that can be incorporated into a healthy sleep-promoting diet.

1. Avoid caffeine: Caffeine is a stimulant that can interfere with sleep, so it’s best to avoid or limit intake of coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate in the afternoon and evening.
2. Incorporate sleep-promoting foods: Foods high in tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes sleep, can be beneficial for those with insomnia. Examples include turkey, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
3. Eat a balanced diet: A diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help support overall health, which in turn can promote better sleep.
4. Avoid large meals before bedtime: Eating a heavy meal before bed can cause discomfort and indigestion, making it difficult to fall asleep.
5. Limit alcohol consumption: While alcohol can make you feel drowsy, it can actually disrupt sleep and cause you to wake up during the night.
6. Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water throughout the day can help keep you hydrated and promote healthy sleep.
7. Establish a consistent eating schedule: Eating meals at regular intervals can help regulate your body’s internal clock, which can promote better sleep.

Yoga and Exercises:

1. Yoga and exercises can be effective in reducing stress and anxiety, which are common causes of insomnia.
2. Practicing yoga and exercises regularly can improve sleep quality and duration.
3. Yoga and exercises can help you relax and calm your mind before bedtime.
4. Gentle stretching can help relieve tension and reduce muscle stiffness, making it easier to fall asleep.
5. Deep breathing exercises can reduce the heart rate and relax the body, which can lead to better sleep.
6. Meditation and mindfulness practices can help you clear your mind and let go of worries, which can help you fall asleep faster.
7. Yoga and exercises can increase the production of endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce stress.
8. Regular physical activity can improve overall health, which can contribute to better sleep.
9. Yoga and exercises can improve circulation and digestion, which can promote better sleep.
10. Practicing yoga and exercises during the day can increase energy levels, making it easier to fall asleep at night.
11. Yoga and exercises can reduce pain and discomfort, which can interfere with sleep.
12. Practicing yoga and exercises in the evening can signal to your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
13. Yoga and exercises can improve flexibility and balance, which can help prevent injuries that can disrupt sleep.
14. Some yoga poses, such as forward bends and inversions, can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which can promote relaxation.
15. Gentle yoga poses, such as Child’s Pose and Legs Up the Wall, can help you relax and reduce tension.
16. Breathing exercises, such as alternate nostril breathing and ujjayi breathing, can help calm the mind and reduce stress.
17. Progressive muscle relaxation can help you release tension and relax your body before sleep.
18. Yoga nidra, also known as yogic sleep, can help you enter a deep state of relaxation and promote restful sleep.
19. Regular exercise can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and promote a regular sleep schedule.
20. Yoga and exercises can provide a healthy outlet for stress and tension, which can help you manage insomnia and improve overall well-being.

Homeopathy:

Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine that uses highly diluted substances to treat various ailments, including insomnia. There are several homeopathic remedies that are commonly used to treat insomnia. Here are a few of them:

1. Coffea Cruda: This remedy is often used for insomnia due to over-excitement or a racing mind.
2. Nux Vomica: This remedy is useful for insomnia caused by overwork, stress, or too much caffeine.
3. Ignatia Amara: This remedy is often used for insomnia caused by emotional stress, grief, or disappointment.
4. Arsenicum Album: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by anxiety, fear, or restlessness.
5. Passiflora Incarnata: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by exhaustion or nervousness.
6. Gelsemium Sempervirens: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by fear, anticipation, or excitement.
7. Kali Phosphoricum: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by nervous exhaustion or stress.
8. Lycopodium Clavatum: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by digestive problems or indigestion.
9. Pulsatilla Nigricans: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by hormonal imbalances or emotional stress.
10. Sepia Officinalis: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by hormonal imbalances, depression, or irritability.
11. Chamomilla: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by anger, frustration, or teething in children.
12. Cocculus Indicus: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by travel or shift work.
13. Kalium Carbonicum: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by restlessness, anxiety, or nervousness.
14. Nux Moschata: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by exhaustion, weakness, or drowsiness.
15. Phosphorus: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by anxiety, restlessness, or nervousness.
16. Silicea: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by overthinking, nervousness, or restlessness.
17. Sulphur: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by restless legs, hot flashes, or itching.
18. Zincum Metallicum: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by restlessness, nervousness, or anxiety.
19. Aconitum Napellus: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by fear, anxiety, or shock.
20. Belladonna: This remedy is used for insomnia caused by excitement, restlessness, or fever.