Herbs for Insomnia: Mental Health, Joy & Detox with Dr. Orna

Sleep is not optional. It's foundational.  In this episode of Eclectic Herbal Wisdom, we're joined by Dr. Orna Izakson for a grounded conversation about insomnia, mental health, nervous system herbs, and why real healing often looks much simpler than the latest wellness trend. We talk about Skullcap, Passionflower, and Valerian, including when they shine and when they don't. We also unpack detox myths, why extreme cleanses often backfire, and how gentle daily rhythms support the body's innate pathways far better than aggressive protocols. What You'll Learn: Why CBT-I is the gold standard for chronic insomnia How herbs support sleep without overriding the nervous system When Skullcap is appropriate, including its use for seizure support Why Valerian causes paradoxical reactions in some people Detox demystified and why less is often more Milk Thistle: when robust liver support is actually needed Hawthorn as a heart and nervous system ally for challenging times  Connect With Dr. Orna Izakson, ND, RH(AHG) here Naturopathic physician, registered herbalist, and educator specializing in mental health, sleep, and integrative care Instagram: @dr.orna, or find her stunning plant pics at @gardenmedicine Herbs Mentioned: Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) We'd love to hear from you! What herbs have supported your sleep or mental health?  Have you experienced a paradoxical reaction to valerian or another herb?  Share your stories with us on Instagram or TikTok @eclecticherb Full show notes: eclecticherb.com/podcast/herbs-mental-health-dr-orna-izakson Text Us & Let Us Know How You Liked The Show!Thanks so much for tuning into Eclectic Herbal Wisdom! We'd love to show our gratitude by giving you a 20% discount on your whole order at eclecticherb.com. Just use the code PODCAST20 at checkout for 20% Off all your herbal goods! 🌿And, if you have time, be sure to reach out and let us know what you think of the show!  At Eclectic Herb we're passionate about bringing you herbs as fresh as plants in the wild!That's why we take the time to gently freeze dry our herbs, right after they've been harvested at the peak of their medicinal potency. We know you'll feel the freeze dried difference in every capsule, every powder, and every bit of herbal love you get at Eclectic Herb! At Eclectic Herb we're proud to stay rooted in tradition, balanced with science, and committed to sustainable herbal products that are better for you and better for the planet since 1982.Over 95% of our freeze dried herbs are grown right here in the US, by small family farmers, and wild crafters that we've cultivated relationships with for over 30 years. They're tending to the plants and the land, ensuring they come back for future generations, and we're getting you the best herbal products out there.You deserve herbs as fresh as nature intended! Get them at eclecticherb.comFollow @eclecticherb on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube