Valerian Root
VALERIAN ROOT
The origins of Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis L.) also known as garden heliotrope, date back at least 1000 years for use as a medicinal herb. It grows freely throughout Europe and Asia in woodlands, with pleasant-smelling, pink or white flowers. The roots have a pungent odor which differs greatly from the Valerian’s flowers. Some say the roots smell like sweaty socks. Valerian was used in Greece and Rome to treat insomnia and anxiety primarily, but has many other uses, and has become popular as a side-effect-free way to reduce anxiety in the modern world.
Benefits of VALERIAN
Valerian is largely used as a calming and sleep inducing herb, but it also:
- Improves sleep, sedative
- Calms anxiety
- Relaxes patients who have to undergo surgery
- Reduces over-thinking
- Reduces muscle soreness in the body
- Stress relieving
- Lowers blood pressure
- Reduces menstrual cramps and irritability
- Improves digestion
- Reduces headache, migraine
- Treats panic attacks
- Neuroprotective
- Antioxidant, free-radical scavenging
How Does VALERIAN Work?
The primary active compounds in Valerian include acetic acid, ascorbic acid, beta-ionine, calcium, magnesium, manganese, caffeic acid, quercetin, and valeric acid.
The biologically active components of Valerian are mostly due to valeranone, valerenadiene and valerenic acidas well as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). These compounds are typically found in the plant roots and are derived from a larger class of chemicals known as sesquiterpenes.
Suggested Dosage
Valerian can be taken in different doses, dependent upon your personal health needs. For anxiety, 120 to 200 mgs are recommended. For insomnia, you can try 300 mgs, but it should not be taken just before bedtime as it can have the opposite effect. It is not intended for long term use, and the dosage should gradually be reduced to prevent any adverse effects.
Side Effects of VALERIAN
Side effects of any type are unusual and mild, however, it can cause drowsiness, so should not be taken while driving or doing tasks which require intense concentration.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before beginning any diet or program.