Valerian Herb

Valerian herb comes from a perennial flowering plant that has been used medicinally to treat insomnia and anxiety since ancient times. It is also known as garden heliotrope or all-heal. In Latin it translates “to be strong or healthy”. The flowers are pink and white and have a sweet smell. It is a multi-purpose herb that has been used throughout the centuries in a variety of ways including as an alternative to coffee, as a perfume and even as a spice. Today it mostly used as a natural alternative to anti anxiety medication along with treating Irritable bowel syndrome and insomnia.

Valerian herb is widely accepted around the world as an alternative to harmful prescription medications. In the United ValerianStates, Valerian is sold as a dietarysupplement and in Germany it is prescribed to people with moderate anxiety. It relaxes the muscles, calms the nerves and induces sleepiness.

Many studies have shown that Valerian herb is a safe sedative. The effects on the brain when taking Valerian are similar to those on Benzodiazepine drugs like Valium and Xanax. Those Benzodiazepines can be highly addictive, and can cause a drowsy confused feeling unlike Valerian which is not addictive and does not impair mental capacity.

Anxiety and insomnia go hand in hand. Clinical trials in Europe have shown the effectiveness of Valerian to treat insomnia. People in the trial fell asleep quicker, slept longer, and stayed asleep. They also reported vivid dreams. Most over the counter and prescription sleep aids leave one feeling “groggy” the morning after, Valerian does not.

Studies have shown that after the initial Valerian dosage, it only takes two weeks to get in your system, but it takes about a month for prescription pills to take effect. It works best when taken continuously for four to six weeks. Doctors recommend Valerian as a safe way to wean off addictive anti anxiety medications. Like most anxiety herbs, Valerian herb should not be taken while pregnant or nursing. People with liver disease should also not take Valerian. Valerian should not be mixed with prescription anxiety medications, however, it is safe to mix Valerian with other anxiety herbs like St. Johns Wort and Passionflower.

Where To Get Valerian?

Herbal remedies online has quite a bit of Valerian extracts and supplements. They have tinctures, capsules, teas, and powder. If interested, click here to go straight to their Valerian page.