Pharmaceutical sleeping pills are habit-forming. Even those that claim not to be addictive have a strong tendency of becoming unhealthy habits.

Natural health practitioners have identified several herbs and supplements that can be safely used as sleep aids:

• Calcium, magnesium, and zinc — These minerals promote relaxation and help support sleep.

I recommend dosages of 180 mg of calcium, 800 mg of magnesium, and 50 mg of zinc.

• Valerian root powder, chamomile flower powder — Valerian is commonly used to treat insomnia. It may help you fall asleep faster and support better quality of sleep. Try 1,200 mg at bedtime. Chamomile (in a dosage of 240 mg) is another herb that has been used for centuries to promote sleep. These herbs are non-habit forming.