On the second night, place 1 drop of geranium oil in the boiling water. Repeat the ritual alternating the type of oil on alternating nights, until the child sleeps through the night. Keep in mind that some essential oils used to relax become stimulants with high dosages, so only use one drop per night. There are two general problems that cause insomnia in adults, depression and anxiety. You may overcome both of these sleep problems with some common herbs.
Depression can cause insomnia or excessive sleep.
Whichever the problem, St. John's Wort may be the remedy. Given for mild to moderate depression, a few drops of St. John's Wort tincture or several cups of tea throughout the day relieves most sufferers of the symptoms of depression which allows normal sleep patterns to return. This herb has also been known to help with the control of nighttime bedwetting. Anxiety sleeplessness is caused by the inability to relax. Usually thoughts rush through the mind which causes a physical response if muscle tension.