most Chinese and Western medicines and
preparations. Mandarin owes its name to
the Chinese Mandarins who traditionally
received this fruit as a gift. It is a close
relative of the tangerine. Mandarin peel
is widely used to fight stress because of its
exceptional soothing and calming effects.
Scientists believe that the compounds in
mandarin peel, including limonene, work
synergistically to promote relaxation and
sleep.
Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora),
a rainforest tree with very fragrant leaves,
20 HimPower June 2017
bark, and nuts, has long been used as an
all-around health tonic in Madagascar. I
recommend ravintsara leaf oil because of
its powerful effects for relieving insomnia,
reducing depression, and alleviating nervous
tension. As a traditional remedy, ravintsara
is remarkable for its efficacy and healing
potential.
You might be asking yourself, “what
about valerian?” Valerian is a well-known
herbal sleep aid, used alone or in combi-
nation with other natural compounds. I
believe that some people do sleep better