We are advocates of essential oils as a safe, efficacious treatment for sleep and have included our favorite dōTERRA® products in the Complementary Corner section of the main Sleep article. Here is a list of some other options that our patients have used with success.
- A few options for sleep supplements include melatonin, L-threonine, phosphatidylserine, glycine, and magnesium-based products (e.g. magnesium citrate). Be careful of dosing—especially with melatonin. Always start at a low dose. These products work best for temporary or occasional use.
- We strongly recommend that you avoid all over-the-counter sedatives. These are drugs that knock you out but do not induce a natural sleep—and can have potentially serious side effects.
