I have been an insomniac for as long as I can remember. I've tried a lot of stuff, here is a breakdown:
OTC sleeping aids like unisom didn't work well and left me groggy in the morning.
A bong hit helps in getting to sleep, but doesn't last all night.
Ambien is the best "drug" for sleep I have tried, but it can be addictive if used all the time.
Melatonin is better than OTC stuff and not as good as ambien. It leaves me slightly hung over if I take 3 mg., I have bitten the pill in half without feeling groggy in the morning.
By far the best aid I have used is St. John's Wort. I take all 3 caps before bed and sleep well with no hangover. It is a mild herb and totally non addictive. I love the stuff. I buy it at Trader Joe's, don't know if you have TJ's where you are.
It is true that busting a nut will help. So does exercise. Reading before bed also helps me.
In conclusion, try the St. John's Wort first.