The revenues for some are astronomical. In fact, pharmaceutical sleep-aid manufacturers saw a rise in consumer spending of 29% from 2005 to 2006. Such revenue was in part driven by the large sums of money behind sleep aid advertising. USA Today cites information from TNS Media Intelligence stating, "In 2006, Sepracor's Lunesta spent $298 million on advertising, and Ambien, from Sanofi-Aventis, spent $207 million. Rozerem spent $102 million."

Yes, creams for dreams, spells that sell, and meds for bed seem to be all the rage in the land of the infomercials. Many of these products claim to be miraculous and cure-alls for many kinds of sleeping disorders. While it is definitely a good thing that the viewers are more aware of their sleeping habits, it is disconcerting that people will not take the appropriate steps first to work through their problems. Marketing techniques only present one element of insomnia and other sleeping disorders, without giving credence to why they might be happening in the first place.

This type of marketing does in fact suggest that Americans are experiencing quite an epidemic. Roughly one in four adults have acute or chronic insomnia, and far more than that have difficulty sleeping in general. A variety of reasons have contributed to the poor sleeping patterns in this country. Busy lifestyles and a fast-paced culture have led people to constantly feel that they have to be on the go, and sleep does not factor into the equation often times.

There are several products that can actually help with sleeping in a natural way.

Aromatherapy - Inexpensive Option
Aromatherapy means "treatment using scents". It is a holistic treatment of caring for the body with pleasant smelling botanical oils such as rose, lemon, lavender and peppermint. The essential oils are added to the bath or massaged into the skin, inhaled directly or diffused to scent an entire room. Aromatherapy is alleviate tension and fatigue and invigorate the entire body, so you can rest better. Essential oils can affect the mood, alleviate fatigue, reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. When inhaled, they work on the brain and nervous system through stimulation of the olfactory nerves.

Humidifiers - Mid-Range Price Option
A slightly cool room is best for sleep. This mimics your internal temperature drop during sleep, so turn off the heat and save on fuel bills. If you tend to get cold, use blankets. If you overheat at night, wear light nightclothes and sleep under a single sheet. Use a dehumidifier if you are bothered by moist air. Use a humidifier if you are bothered by dry air. Signs of dry air irritation include a sore throat, nosebleeds or a dry throat.

Comfortable Mattress - Expensive, But Well Worth The Price
One tip that you need a new mattress is that you had a better night's sleep somewhere other than your own bed (such as a hotel). Also, back pain is the number one reason why people often stay home from work because they don't get a good night sleep, don't get the right amount of sleep or get a disrupted sleep. To take care of this problem you might want to consider a replacement option. Adjustable air beds, water beds or even just a brand new mattress with inner springs could solve your insomnia.

These product help you feel good about resting, and will provide a comfortable atmosphere in which your body can truly feel at ease. But there are quick-fix methods that remain on the market that can often times make the sleeping problem even worse. Furthermore, addictions can form and side-effects can be quite harmful to your body.