Valerian Root is an excellent sleep and relaxation herb. Valerian is a smooth muscle and skeletal relaxant, as well as a premier sedative that aids in the relief of anxiety, stress and insomnia. Recent studies indicate that the valepotriate and valerenic acid constituents may bind to the same receptor sites in the brain as benzodiazepine drugs.
Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
History and Uses:
Valerian is found throughout Europe, South Africa and temperate areas of
Asia, and it has also been introduced to North America. The parts of this plant
used medicinally are the root and the rhizome. Valerian has a characteristic
aromatic, yet offensive, scent that strangely enough is attractive to cats; in fact, some Victorian physicians suggested that the quality of Valerian
can be determined by how cats react to it. Legend also tells us that the Pied Piper of Hamlin used
Valerian to lure the rats out of the city. The name, Valerian, is derived from the Latin word, valere, meaning "to be strong." The Greek physician, Dioscorides,
recommended Valerian for a host of medical problems, including digestive problems,
nausea, liver problems and even urinary tract disorders. Use of Valerian
for insomnia and nervous conditions has been common for many centuries. Valerian
was traditionally used for epilepsy, sleeplessness, nervousness, hysteria
and as a diuretic and emmenagogue. It has been used for nervousness and insomnia
in Ayurvedic medicine in India, as well as Traditional Chinese Medicine. This
herb was used as a coffee substitute by German women, a condiment during
Medieval times and a perfume during the sixteenth century. The roots have been
used for food by many cultures. The Piute Indians ground them for flour, and
the British used the roots in soups. By the eighteenth century, this herb
was an accepted sedative, and it was also used for nervous disorders associated
with a restless digestive tract. In the early part of the nineteenth century, Shakers
grew Valerian as a principle cash crop. During World War I, Valerian was given
to shell-shocked soldiers and stressed civilians. In Europe, Valerian is still
the most common non-prescription sedative, where over one hundred Valerian
preparations are sold in pharmacies, and in Germany, it is used for unruly children.
Native Americans used Valerian to treat their horses with distemper. 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 Valium-T. However, Valerian is considered to be a much milder and safer sedative, and unlike
Valium-T, Valerian is not addictive or does not promote dependency. Moreover, Valerian's
sedative effect is not significantly exaggerated by alcohol and barbiturates
(unlike Valium-T), and has also not been associated with any birth defects. Valerian is a smooth muscle and skeletal
relaxant, as well as a premier sedative that aids in anxiety, stress and insomnia.
The primary chemical constituents of Valerian Root include valepotriates,
alkaloids (chatinine, valerine), valerenic acid, essential oils
(acetic acid, borneol, pinene, camphene), caffeic acid, beta-sitosterol,
tannin, manganese, calcium, choline and B-vitamins. Valerian Root's essential oils 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, and 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 is said to reduce hypertension due to
stress and relieve pain from shingles. Experiments in Italy and Germany conducted
for the past fifteen years have found that Valerian preparations are effective
in treating children with psychomotor agitation (hyperactivity) and
behavioral disorders. In fact, in these children, the preparation appeared to enhance
motor co-ordination and maintained reaction time, while calming anxiety and
fears, reducing restlessness and curbing aggression.
Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, two (2) times each day with water.
Contraindications:
Valerian is not recommended for children, pregnant or nursing women, or those who suffer from low blood pressure or hypoglycemia. This product should not be combined with alcohol or with other sleep-inducing medications. Because it is a sedative, one should never drive or operate machinery when using Valerian. It is advisable to stop taking Valerian Root after two or three weeks and then restart; uninterrupted usage is not recommended. Avoid large doses (many times the recommended amount), and if headaches or heart palpitations occur, its use should be discontinued. The herb is not recommended for those taking prescription medications, particularly liver medications, unless a physician is first consulted. Valerian should be stopped about one week before surgery because it may interact with anesthesia.
Capsule Information:
Our Valerian Root supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs. |
