Have you ever heard of valerian root and conjectured what it is? Valerian root has been used for centuries to help treat insomnia, anxiety, muscle pain, headaches, and stress. This herb has a long history of traditional use and is now available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts, as a natural remedy for improving sleep quality.
We’ll explore the potential benefits of taking valerian root, how it works on the body and mind, its side effects if any exist, and some tips on how to take it properly.
Valerian Root
Valerian root is an herbal supplement derived from the Valeriana officinalis plant, a flowering perennial native to Europe and Asia. It has been used for its medicinal properties since ancient times, with various cultures worldwide using it to treat anxiety and insomnia.
The root contains several compounds, including gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which plays an important role in calming the nervous system, and valeric acid, which is thought to be responsible for its soothing effects. Valerian root also contains numerous essential oils that can help contribute to its relaxing properties.
Valerian root extract is believed to work by increasing GABA levels in the brain, leading to relaxation without causing drowsiness. It is thought to interact with certain receptors in the brain, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Additionally, it may have a mild soothing effect on the body by binding to benzodiazepine receptors, which are also responsible for producing calming effects.
Uses of Valerian Root
Valerian root has been used for centuries to help treat various health issues, including insomnia, anxiety, muscle pain and tension, headaches and migraines, menstrual cramps, and stress. Here are some of the common uses of the valerian root:
Insomnia
Valerian root is often used as a natural sleep aid due to its calming effects on the nervous system. It may improve sleep quality by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and increasing total sleep time.
Anxiety
Valerian root can reduce anxiety symptoms, such as restlessness or irritability. It works by interacting with certain receptors in the brain that promote relaxation without causing drowsiness.
Muscle Pain and Tension
Valerian root has been used to ease muscle pain and tension, including cramps or spasms. It may help relax the muscles while also providing a calming effect on the body.
Headaches and Migraines
Valerian root can reduce symptoms of headaches and migraines, such as throbbing pain or sensitivity to light. It is thought to work by increasing GABA levels in the brain, leading to relaxation without causing drowsiness.
Menstrual Cramps
Valerian root has been used for centuries to relieve menstrual cramps. It works by interacting with certain receptors in the brain that promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. Additionally, it may have a mild anti-inflammatory effect which can help relieve tenderness and pain.
Stress
Valerian root often reduces stress levels, as it calms the body and mind. It may help reduce feelings of restlessness or unease by increasing GABA levels in the brain, leading to relaxation without causing drowsiness.
Overall Health
Valerian root has been used for centuries to promote overall health and well-being. It may help improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety symptoms, ease muscle pain and tension, reduce headaches and migraines, and relieve menstrual cramps.
Benefits of Valerian Root
The potential benefits of taking valerian root supplement include:
Improving sleep quality
Valerian root is often used as a natural sleep aid due to its calming effects on the nervous system, which can help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and increase total sleep time.
Reducing anxiety symptoms
Valerian root has been used for centuries to reduce anxiety symptoms, such as restlessness or irritability. It works by interacting with certain receptors in the brain that promote relaxation without causing drowsiness.
Easing muscle pain and tension
Valerian root may help relax the muscles while calming the body, making it an effective remedy for cramps or spasms.
Relieving headaches and migraines
Valerian root can reduce symptoms of headaches and migraines, such as throbbing pain or sensitivity to light. It is thought to work by increasing GABA levels in the brain, leading to relaxation without causing drowsiness.
Reducing menstrual cramps
Valerian root has been used for centuries to relieve menstrual cramps. It works by interacting with certain receptors in the brain that promote relaxation without causing drowsiness and has a mild anti-inflammatory effect that can help reduce tenderness and pain.
Lowering stress levels
Valerian root is often used to reduce stress levels, providing a calming effect on both the body and mind. It may help reduce feelings of restlessness or unease by increasing GABA levels in the brain, leading to relaxation without causing drowsiness.
Improving overall health
Valerian root has long been used to promote overall health and well-being. It may help improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety symptoms, ease muscle pain and tension, reduce headaches and migraines, and relieve menstrual cramps.
Increasing GABA levels in the brain
As mentioned previously, valerian root is thought to work by increasing GABA levels in the brain. This can lead to relaxation without causing drowsiness and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Side Effects of Valerian Root
Though valerian root is generally considered safe, some potential side effects should be considered before taking supplements. These include:
Nausea and vomiting
Some people may experience nausea or vomiting when taking valerian root supplements. If this occurs, it’s best to stop using and consult a doctor immediately.
Headaches
Valerian root can lead to headaches in some individuals. This is usually due to its calming effect on the body, which can cause tension headaches or migraines if taken in high doses.
Dizziness and drowsiness
Valerian root has been associated with dizziness or drowsiness in some people. It’s important to note that this can be dangerous if driving or operating machinery, so it’s best to use caution when taking valerian root supplements.
Allergy symptoms
Some people may experience allergy symptoms such as skin rash, itching, or hives when taking valerian root supplements. If you experience these symptoms, stop using the supplement immediately and consult a doctor.
Interactions with medications
Valerian root may interact with certain medications, such as sedatives or antidepressants. Before taking supplements, it is important to consult your doctor about potential interactions with other drugs.
High doses
Taking high doses of valerian root can lead to serious side effects such as hallucinations or seizures. It’s important to stick to the recommended dosage on the supplement label.
FAQS
Is valerian the same as melatonin?
No, valerian and melatonin are two different supplements. Valerian is a herb that has been used for centuries to help with sleep and anxiety, while melatonin is a hormone produced by the body that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle.
What time should I take valerian root?
The best time to take valerian root is 30 minutes to two hours before bedtime. This will allow time for the supplement to take effect and help with sleep.
How long does valerian root stay in your system?
Valerian root typically stays in your system for up to 24 hours. It’s important to note that as everyone metabolizes differently, this could vary from person to person.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Valerian root is an age-old herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to help address a variety of sleep issues as well as nervousness. It is well known in Europe and North America but far less studied when compared to modern-day medications. Although research is ongoing, overwhelming evidence suggests that Valerian has the potential to be both effective and safe night-sleep aid. Consequently, it could be a valuable tool for anyone experiencing sleeplessness or anxiety regularly.
