FoodCaps

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. The primary chemical constituents of Valerian Root include valepotriates, alkaloids, valerenic acid, essential oils, caffeic acid, beta-sitosterol, tannin, manganese, calcium, choline, and B vitamins. Valerian Root contains 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. In fact, in these children, the preparation enhanced motor coordination and maintained reaction time, while calming anxiety and fears, curing restlessness and curbing aggression.

Clinical studies of valerian show that it improves the quality of sleep. It showed a reduction in the time taken to fall asleep. Its root containsan essential oil and agent called valepotriateswich both very effective as sedatives.

Valerian is a hardy perennial flowering plant with sweet-smelling pink or white flowers. The name Valerian means “to be strong or healthy” in Latin, and this translation is generally regarded to refer to its medicinal use, though it is suggested that it also refers to the strong odor.

Valerian is native to Europe, South Africa, and parts of Asia and was introduced to North America. Ancient Greeks used the plant for a variety of medical disorders ranging from liver problems, digestive ailments, and urinary tract disorders to nausea and insomnia. Valerian has also been used for centuries for nervous conditions and has been traditionally used for sleeplessness, epilepsy, nervousness, hysteria and as a diuretic.

The herb was used in Germany for unruly children, as a coffee substitute by German women, and as a condiment in medieval times, and as a perfume in the 16th century. It has had many other uses across numerous cultures throughout the centuries.

Common Uses:

Valerian has often been used in complementary and alternative medicine for its sedative properties. It has been recommended for epilepsy but that has not been supported by modern research. Currently, the herb is mainly used as a remedy for insomnia.

In each capsule : 150 mg
Part used : root