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Written by Asia Ainsworth
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Monday, 12 March 2007 |
Valerian
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a tall pinkish herb with flowers. This herb has been used for centuries as herbal medicine for insomniacs. This mild sedative is currently popular as a sleeping aid and in countering anxiety especially in Germany, France, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. Recently, it has gained immense following in the United States also. This plant grows in North America, Europe and Asia. The underground stems and roots are gathered and dried to make the medicinal preparations.
Valerian has several health benefits:
The subject of valerian has rarely been so easy to understand.
It improves sleep. It can bind receptors in the brain for a nerve chemical called GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid). It blocks some nerve impulses to reach the brain thereby shortening the amount of time it takes to sleep and improve the quality of sleep. Unlike prescription drugs, it is not addictive and does not cause grogginess.
It reduces nervous tension, anxiety and restlessness. German authorities recommend valerian for sleeping disorders that stem from nervous conditions. It can do this by blocking brain receptors for the neurotransmitter GABA. It also stops nerve impulses and stress messages from reaching the brain.
It lessens stomach cramps and enhances digestive system conditions due to its antispasmodic characteristics.
Valerian is sold in the following formulations: tincture, tablet, softgel, liquid, dried herb/tea and capsule. To get the most out of valerian products, refer to the following special tips:
A free dried extract is the most effective form of valerian herb.
Valerian can be availed of as a single supplement or combined with other herbs and supplements.
To avoid drowsiness and negative interactions, dont take valerian with muscle relaxants, narcotic pain relievers, prescription sleep medications, tranquilizers or drugs that cause drowsiness. Taking large doses of valerian may cause dizziness, restlessness, blurry vision, nausea, excitability and grogginess upon waking. Do not take it nightly for two consecutive weeks to prevent dependency on valerian.
The writer of this article makes valerian more accessible to the average reader than most writers.
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