Using the Herb Valerian for Better Sleep
Herbal Help for Insomnia, Anxiety, Stress, Pain and Hypertension
Regular, good sleeping habits promote faster recovery from illness and injury, reduce stress, anxiety and depression, prevent premature aging and even increase brain function. The effects of a lack of sleep are well known: irritability, moodiness, fatigue, physical aches and pains and the inability to concentrate. Sleeplessness is a major cause of vehicle and workplace accidents as well as absenteeism and poor performance at school and in the workplace.
Therapeutic Benefits
The Valerian plant is a herbal remedy that quiets, calms, and has a healing effect on the nervous system. As insomnia is often caused by stress, anxiety, hyperactivity and depression, this potent plant is a safe method for a restful night’s sleep.
Clinical studies show that taking valerian supplements or drinking it as a tea can improve sleep quality and relieve insomnia. In a research study published in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior, valerian showed significant sleep-inducing effect with 44 percent of testers reporting perfect sleep and 89 percent reporting improved sleep.
And unlike some sleep aid medications, valerian doesn’t cause a feeling of fogginess in the morning. In fact, valerian has been found to have no negative effect on alertness, coordination, or concentration the morning after using the herb. It does not have a narcotic effect and there is not a risk of dependency as found when some sleep medications are used regularly for long periods of time.
Valeriana officinalis, is a perennial plant with pink or white flowers. Its fragrant blossoms were used to make perfume in the 16th century. This herb is native to Europe and parts of Asia and was introduced to North America in the 1800’s.
The therapeutic properties are found in the root, which unlike the scented flowers, smells somewhat like bad cheese. However, once dried and prepared it has a potent power to not only reduce insomnia but to calm frazzled nerves, quiet heart palpitations, strengthen the circulatory system, reduce high blood pressure, aid digestion, heal ulcers, relax muscles, relieve anxiety and calm hyperactivity.
Valerian for Hypertension, Muscle Pain and Hyperactivity
In reducing stress and hypertension (high blood pressure), Valerian slows the heart rate, while increasing the strength of each heart beat, resulting in a more efficient and less strained heart rate and even reducing heart palpitations (uneven heart beats). Though herbal remedies are not yet widely accepted in conventional medicine, physicians in Guatemala use valerian extracts in herbal preparations to decrease blood pressure.
Studies primarily in Germany and Russia have also researched valerian extensively. This research has found that medicinal components in the valerian root target the brain centers that are responsible for suppressing and regulating the nervous center, safely and gently soothing nervous disorders. In fact German physicians have effectively used valerian for almost 10 years, to treat children with hyperactive behavioral disorders.
Valerian Uses
- Induces sleep and acts as a sedative.
- Strengthens the heart and circulatory system and lowers blood pressure.
- Stimulates digestion and prevents and heals gastrointestinal ulcers.
- Calms nerves and reduces anxiety and mental stress.
- Relaxes muscle tension and pain.
Using Therapeutic Herbs Safely
Whether taken as a tea, infusion, elixir, powder or capsule, valerian is a safe and gently effective soothing and calming supplement. It has multiple sedative effects making it a valuable natural medication for insomnia, nervous anxiety and excessive mental stress, and with no side-effects or dangers of addiction. However, as with all medications, herbal remedies are potent drugs and should be taken only with professional advice and by following strict dosage guidelines.
Valerian Reduces Anxiety & Insomnia
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