Feverfew & Valerian Root

Feverfew is an effective treatment for migraine headaches. Feverfew grows widely across Europe and North America. The name Feverfew is from the latin word, febrifuga, meaning "to lower fevers". The genus name, Tanacetum , is derived from anthanasis, meaning "immortal", as the flowers are long lasting. Cultivated for centuries, Feverfew has been used, like aspirin, primarily as a pain buffer. Feverfew inhibits the formation of two natural chemicals found in the body, prostaglandin and serotonin. Feverfew contains niacin and iron plus vitamin A and vitamin C. Helping regulate normal body functions, Feverfew works with the body to help heal itself. Used to relieve severe headaches, migraines and reduce fevers by cooling the body, Feverfew also helps to ease a wide range of ailments. Reducing inflammation, Feverfew is used for relieving pain linked to arthritis and reducing painful menstruation. Other uses for Feverfew have been for inflammatory skin problems, asthma and stimulating the appetite. Feverfew contains a range of compounds known as sesquiterpene lactones. Over 85% of these are a compound called parthenolide. Parthenolide helps prevent excessive clumping of platelets and inhibits the release of certain chemicals, including serotonin and some inflammatory mediators. This may reduce the severity, duration, and frequency of migraine headaches and improve blood vessel tone.

Valerian Root was a very popular sleep sedative in the United States until it was displaced by synthetic drugs after World War II. Clinical studies have shown that people taking Valerian Root had shown significantly improved sleep quality without morning grogginess. Some researchers have compared Valerian Root to benzodiazepines such as ValiumT. However, Valerian is a much milder and safer sedative. Unlike ValiumT, Valerian is not addictive or does not promote dependency. And Valerian's sedative effect is not significantly exaggerated by alcohol and barbiturates ( unlike ValiumT ), and also has not been linked to any birth defects ( again, unlike ValiumT ). Valerian is a smooth muscle and skeletal relaxant, as well as a premier sedative that aids in anxiety, stress and insomnia. Valerian Root contains many different constituents, including essential oils that appear to contribute to the sedating properties of the herb. Central nervous system sedation is regulated by receptors in the brain known as GABA-A receptors. Valerian may weakly bind to these receptors to exert a sedating effect. Recent studies indicate that valepotriates and valerenic acid can bind to the same receptor sites in the brain as benzodiazepine drugs. It reduces hypertension due to stress and reduces pain from shingles. Experiments in Italy and Germany conducted for the past 15 years have found that Valerian preparations are effective in treating children with psychomotor agitation ( hyperactivity ) and behavioral disorders.