Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder in which a patient gets uncontrollable urges to fall asleep. In this ailment the patient immediately falls asleep and this disorder is really detrimental to the daily lifestyle of a person. Not to mention the dangers while cooking, driving or operating heavy machinery.
There is no known cure of the disease and it can only be managed by some stimulant drugs. However, these drugs have adverse side effects and can really wear you down over a period of time. Instead you can try some herbal remedies for narcolepsy which help you overcome the excessive sleepiness and follow some simple lifestyle and diet changes to manage the problem effectively.
Best Herbal Remedies For Narcolepsy
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is a stimulant and its consumption stimulates the blood flow and hence the blood pressure of a person suffering from narcolepsy. This reduces the sleepiness and enables the person to stay awake for longer hours.
The best way to consume cayenne pepper is to add it in powdered form to your food. Cayenne pepper is not just one of the herbal remedies for narcolepsy, but also an herb that is generally good for health and digestion.
Gingko Biloba
Gingko Biloba is a well known Chinese herb and nourishes the nervous system. It protects the nerve cells because of its anti oxidant properties and also improves the blood circulation. Both these actions provide benefit to patients suffering from narcolepsy.
Flavonoids and terpenoids are the active ingredients in this herb and these are responsible for its medicinal actions. If you are scheduled for a surgery in the near future or if you have a bleeding disorder then it is advised not to take this as one of the herbal remedies for narcolepsy.
Gotu Kola
This is an ayurvedic herb which grows in sub tropical climates and has been used in the Indian system of medicine for centuries as a supportive medicine for veins. It strengthens the connective tissue.
Strong veins lead to a better blood circulation and the brain gets more nutrients and oxygen which helps in the brain being active as it should be. The herb is also an anti oxidant and protects the nerve cells. This is one of the herbal remedies for narcolepsy which does not have many side effects other than a light rash.
Country Mallow
This is also an herb that is used in the Ayurvedic system of medicine and it stimulates the body and helps the patient stay awake. However, this herb causes a rise in blood pressure and hence people with cardiovascular disorders should be careful with it. Before using this herb, it is better you consult with your doctor once.
St John’s Wort
This herb acts on the nervous system and hence is recommended as one of the herbal remedies for narcolepsy. This herb improves the quality of sleep and calms the nerves. The nerves are often affected due to this disorder and the emotional impact of living with such an ailment.
The best way to consume this herb is in the form of a tea prepared by adding 1 teaspoon dried herb to boiling water and steeping for 10-15 minutes. Consume twice a day.
