By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist
Sunlight influences many aspects of our health, through its regulation of our circadian rhythms. Adequate exposure to morning sunlight not only helps align our internal biological clocks, promoting optimal daily functioning, but also plays a crucial role in emotional regulation and physical health.
Despite its benefits, the shift towards modern working hours and the prevalence of artificial lighting can disrupt these essential rhythms, often resulting in sleep disturbances. Fortunately, natural herbal remedies such as valerian, hops, and passionflower provide a soothing influence on the nervous system and support restful sleep, offering a promising avenue for counteracting the sleep challenges posed by contemporary living conditions.
Exposure to morning sunlight sets our internal clock—the circadian rhythm—that regulates sleep, digestion, and hormonal balance. Aarti Jagannath, Professor in Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience at the University of Oxford, emphasises that light influences every aspect of our physiology. The early morning light, especially the blue wavelengths, plays a crucial role in signalling our body’s internal clock and determining our alertness and readiness for the day.
Steve Jones, Principal Research Associate at University College London, points out the dangers of inadequate sunlight exposure. Reduced sunlight exposure can lead to severe mood disturbances and depression, as well as weakened immune and defence mechanisms. The benefits of getting outside are not only for vitamin D production but also for enhancing mood and general well-being, proving more effective than some antidepressants in certain studies.
In contrast, artificial light, especially at night, can disrupt our circadian rhythm, making us more alert when we should be winding down and potentially leading to increased depression during the day. This misalignment can contribute to significant health issues, including metabolic disorders.
More than 3 million people in Britain who work night shifts face a profound disruption in their body’s natural regulatory processes. This misalignment can lead to a higher incidence of diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease, due to the confusing light differences between home, work, and commuting times.
Therefore, sleep is crucial for overall health, affecting everything from mental clarity to physical well-being and immune function. Proper sleep supports our body’s circadian rhythms, which regulate essential physiological processes.
In today’s fast-paced world, herbal remedies offer a natural solution to the common issue of sleep disruption. These natural solutions calm the nervous system and enhance sleep quality, helping to improve overall well-being.
Herbal medicines have long been revered for their gentle yet effective properties, especially in promoting relaxation and supporting sleep. Unlike conventional sleep medications, which often come with a risk of dependency and side effects, herbal remedies offer a natural alternative that can help ease the body into a restful state without having harsh impacts on the body’s biochemical balance.
Incorporating certain herbal medicines can significantly aid in improving sleep quality. Here are some effective herbs:
Valerian is widely recognised for its sedative qualities and ability to improve sleep quality. It acts as a natural tranquillizer, helping those who struggle with insomnia or irregular sleep patterns.
Also known as passionflower, Passiflora is used for its calming effects, particularly in individuals dealing with anxiety and restlessness. It is known to improve sleep quality by relaxing the nervous system.
Commonly associated with beer production, hops have a long history as a treatment for insomnia. The sedative properties of hops promote a calming effect, making it easier to fall asleep.
Oats are not just a healthy breakfast choice; they also possess soothing properties for the nervous system. They can be particularly helpful in easing stress and enhancing sleep quality.
Siberian ginseng, also known as eleuthero and devil’s shrub, offers significant benefits for those struggling with sleep due to overthinking and restlessness. It aids in modulating stress responses and enhancing overall sleep efficiency.
Baikal Skullcap, also known as Chinese skullcap, is highly valued for its ability to soothe anxiety and promote sleep. Its active compounds, such as baicalin, have sedative effects that help calm the mind and improve sleep quality, making it an excellent choice for those dealing with stress-induced insomnia.
The importance of sunlight in regulating our health and circadian rhythms cannot be overstated. Alongside, incorporating herbal remedies can complement the benefits of natural light, supporting better sleep and overall health. Engaging with the outdoors and utilising nature’s offerings can lead us to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
At Aston Clinic London, our herbalists adopt a comprehensive approach to wellness, considering the overall lifestyle of each client. We work closely with individuals to address sleep disturbances and other health issues related to disrupted circadian rhythms.
To book a session with our practitioners, click here. Alternatively, you can contact us at 020 8942 3148 to learn how our treatments can benefit you.
Aston Clinic London is a third-generation complementary health clinic located in New Malden, serving Kingston, Norbiton, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Surbiton, Chessington, Worcester Park, Sutton, Richmond, and other areas of southwest London and Surrey.
By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist
