It’s been a long day, you’re tired out, but you just can’t seem to fall asleep. You might need to consider a supplement to help you feel sleepy. The following is a list of 10 such supplements.

Though many doctors don’t prescribe herbal supplements, there are still many readily available “natural” products that are purported to help with sleep issues.

1. Chamomile: Chamomile, an herbal supplement, is a flower in the daisy family and while there are no scientific studies proving its effectiveness in treating insomnia, chamomile has been used for generations to help people relax and become sleepy. It is mild and safe for most people but rare allergic reactions have occurred. If you are allergic to ragweed, you should probably not take this supplement.
2. Kava (Piper methysticum): Is another herbal supplement that comes from a plant grown in the South Pacific. There have been some European studies that show Kava is beneficial for treating anxiety and insomnia. Severe side effects have been connected to long-term use and high doses.
3. Synthetic melatonin: Synthetic melatonin has been the center of some controversy as to its effectiveness in promoting sleepiness. For some people it does not seem to benefit sleepiness, but for others supplemental melatonin is the answer. Some say it helps them fall asleep on the average of 40 minutes sooner than they do without the supplement. Another advantage is that melatonin seems to have only minor side effects with short-term use.
4. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): Another herbal remedy, Valerian has been shown in a few studies to have a mild sedative effect and can help people fall asleep. It is also purported to improve sleep quality. Headaches, dizziness, and itching are noted side effects.

Besides herbal supplements, people who need help sleeping may want to try an Over the Counter supplement.

1. Diphenhydramine: Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that is commonly found in such name brand over the counter sleep aid supplements as Sominex, Benadryl and Tylenol PM.
2. Doxylamine: Doxylamine is another sedating antihistamine found in Unisom, another OTC supplement. This supplement may not be safe if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, so be sure to consult your physician before using.

Finally, other medications can only be gotten with a doctor’s prescription.

1. Eszopiclone: This is the active ingredient in Lunesta and offers a few restrictions for sue and side effects that should be discussed with your physician.
2. Ramelteon: Ramelteon is another prescription drug and is found in Rozerem. While pregnant or breast-feeding women should not take this medication, it is similar to melatonin and is not likely to be habit-forming.
3. Triazolam: The active ingredient in the prescription medication Halcion is not recommended for those who have a history of drug abuse or depression. This possibly habit-forming drug may react with other medications and must be stopped gradually.
4. Zolpidem: Ambien and Edluar are two often-prescribed drugs that include Zolpidem as their active ingredient. This drug can have serious side effects and may become less effective if used for more than a few weeks.

The need to sleep is just as essential for good health as maintaining good nutritional habits, but if you find yourself unable to fall asleep or stay asleep there are supplements that can help.