If you've been having trouble falling or staying asleep, it may be time to consider a nightcap. Skip the alcohol and try an herbal tea, sleep-specific drink, or even chocolate milk (say what?!). And these suggestions are coming from experience — I've had some sleep issues in the past, and I've tried these six drinks before bedtime with much sleepy-time success to report back on.

For example: two nights prior to my first half marathon, I couldn't sleep at ALL. When the eve of the race came, I knew I'd have to step up my game: I grabbed a NeuroSleep and Yogi Bedtime tea. Before I knew it, the stress was melting away, and I was fast asleep, with enough rest for my 4 a.m. wakeup call.

The components in these herbal- or mineral-based drinks all have the same goal in mind: getting you to relax and sleep soundly. Here's are some ingredients to look for (all of which can be found in the following drink roundup!).

• Valerian root [1] is known to mitigate anxiety and has sedative qualities
• L-theanine [2] releases dopamine, and has a stress-reducing effect that helps you fall asleep more easily
• Melatonin [3] is the natural hormone created by your body that helps you fall asleep
• Magnesium [4] is an antistress, anti-anxiety mineral, and reduces cramping, allowing you to comfortably nod off
• Vitamin B complex [5] positively affects mood, while relaxing the mind and body
• Chamomile acts as a mild sedative, calming you for a peaceful slumber

NeuroSleep

NeuroSleep [6] was the first sleepy-time drink I ever tried, and I swore it was made of horse tranquilizer and THC, becuase I had half of one of these and became unconscious/presumably dead instantly. Turns out I was a little off about the ingredient list, but it has definitely proven its efficacy in my time of need.

Sleep Helpers: L-Theanine, Melatonin, Magnesium

Yogi Bedtime Tea

This tea is one of my favorite nighttime blends. Yogi [7] brings chamomile, skullcap, California poppy, and L-theanine together for an effectively soothing tea.

Sleep Helpers: L-Theanine, Chamomile

Celestial Seasons Sleepy-Time Tea

This is the OG of sleepy teas. Just looking at the sleeping bear on the box [8] makes me feel drowsy.

Sleep Helpers: Chamomile

Ovaltine Chocolate Malt

When mixed with milk, this is a tryptophan powerhouse. Ovaltine malt mix [9] (and any malt beverage in general) has a ton of tryptophan, and so does milk; combine this with magnesium from chocolate, and it's a perfect pre-bedtime treat. It'll release serotonin, reduce muscle cramping, and help you relax.

Sleep Helpers: Tyrptophan, Magnesium

iChill Liquid Sleep Aid

You drink iChill [10] like you'd drink a shot of NyQuil, except in this case, it's not a drug. With a potent blend of herbal sleepy-time remedies, this is a quick fix for sleeplessness.

Sleep Helpers: Melatonin, Valerian Root, B Vitamins, Rose Hips

Coconut Water

You'll definitely feel hydrated after falling asleep with some coconut water [11] in your system. Potassium and magnesium work together to alleviate cramping and help you feel comfortable and relaxed, and ready for bed.

Sleep Helpers: Potassium, Magnesium, B Vitamins