Herbal remedies are used to treat disorders that keep you awake, like insomnia. Herbal remedies are also used as stimulants to combat excessive daytime sleepiness, or even just to give a boost when energy begins to wilt. The stimulant herbal drug of choice is caffeine, like in a big mug of black coffee to get you going in the morning, and a few more throughout the day to keep your energy level high. And yes, caffeine is a drug. In fact, it's the most widely used drug in the world.
Caffeine can cause irregular heartbeats, ulcers and heartburn.
The stimulant herb, ephedra, can cause heart attacks, strokes and other health problems. There are several herbal sedatives available, including valerian, hops, passion flower and German chamomile. These herbs seem to have few side effects, although chamomile is a member of the daisy family, and anyone who suffers from allergies should avoid it. However, kava kava, another sedative, is a different story. It may increase their effect.