Excessive sleepiness can be very disruptive to everyday chores and routine. Excessive sleepiness during the day is also called narcolepsy. It can cause sudden bouts of sleep anytime during the day and can become very risky, especially when driving or operating machinery, etc. Ayurveda has some herbs and herbal formulations that can help take care of this problem that can be annoying and embarrassing.
According to the Ayurveda system, aggravation and imbalances in Kapha Dosha can lead to sleep disturbances and excessive sleepiness. It is, therefore, important to balance this Dosha in order to cure this problem. There are some herbs along with dietary recommendations that can help with this condition.
Ayurvedic herbal medicine for excessive sleepiness
Treatment in Ayurveda for this condition concentrates on increasing the quality and quantity of sleep during the night to help reduce daytime sleepiness.
One way of treating is to use a combination of stimulants and sedatives, some of which are listed below.
- Dashmoolarishta
- Arjunarishta
- Brahmi-Vati
- Abhrak-Bhasma
- Saraswatarishta
- Suvarna-Bhasma
- Bruhat-Vat-Chintamani
Along with these, some herbal medicines can also be used in treatment.
- Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina)
- Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)
- Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)
- Shakhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis)
- Nirgundi (Vitex negundo)
- Vacha (Acorus calamus)
- Shalparni (Desmodium gangeticum)
- Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)
- Pippali (Piper longum)
According to individual body types, personality and extent and nature of the problem, these herbs and medicines have to be combined and used. Different individuals may require a different combination of herbs and medicines in order to be cured of this condition.
Ayurvedic diet for excessive sleepiness
Your diet needs to consist of foods that help pacify an aggravated Kapha Dosha.
- You should have warm and light food that is free of oils, sugars and fats.
- Spicy foods are good but should not contain too much cheese.
- You can include small salads in your daily diet to keep a check on your appetite.
- You should also stay away from dairy products, meats, wheat products as well as creamy and heavy desserts.
- You can start your meals with lemon juice, grated ginger and a pinch of salt. You can also have ginger tea in the evenings.
If you follow these tips, you can get rid of your problem of excessive sleep and be able to work more efficiently and lead a more active life.
