Sleep Better Naturally With Herbal Valerian

Valerian is a plant native to Europe and Asia. It grows to up to four feet high and has trumpet shaped flowers. The roots are used medicinally. Although the fresh root is relatively odorless, the dried root has a strong odor that many find unpleasant.

Valerian is believed to have been used since at least the time of ancient Greece and Rome. It was used as a folk remedy for a variety of conditions such as sleeping problems, digestive complaints, nervousness, trembling, tension headaches and heart palpitations. Valerian's popularity waned with the introduction of prescription sleep medication.

Valerian has been used to ease insomnia, anxiety, and nervous restlessness as far back as the second century A.D., and grew especially popular in Europe in the 17th century. Now research, mainly over the last decade, has begun to confirm the scientific validity of these historic uses. Scientists aren't sure how valerian works, but they believe it increases the amount of a chemical called gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA helps regulate nerve cells and has a calming effect on anxiety. A class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which includes alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium) also work by increasing the amount of GABA in the brain, and researchers think valerian may have a similar but weaker effect.

Valerian is a popular alternative to commonly prescribed medications for sleep problems because it is considered to be both safe and gentle. Some studies bear this out, although not all have found valerian to be effective. One of the best designed studies found that after 28 days valerian greatly improved sleep for those who were taking it. That has led researchers to speculate that you may need to take valerian for a few weeks before it begins to work. Other studies have shown that valerian reduces the time it takes to fall asleep and improves the quality of sleep itself. Plus, unlike many prescription sleep aids, valerian may have fewer side effects such as morning drowsiness.

Valerian is one of the most important herbal sedative. Valerian is a non-addictive tranquilliser that is used against sleeping disorders, restlessness and anxiety. Valerian seems only to work when taken over longer periods (several weeks). Studies have demonstrated that valerian extracts interact with the GABA and benzodiazepine receptors. Valerian is also used traditionally to treat gastrointestinal pain and spastic colitis.

Valerian Root maintains an excellent safety profile when it is used as directed. A 150mg-200mg dose is recommended for the relief of occasional nervousness, nervous tension, and anxiety. In cases of occasional sleep difficulty, a higher dose of 300mg-600mg is recommended. Side effects are rare and have been documented as mild to moderate in clinical study. They may include headache, gastrointestinal discomfort, drowsiness, dizziness or sleep difficulty. In the event that you experience an adverse reaction, discontinue use of this herb. Valerian Root does not cause withdrawal or discontinuation effects.

Valerian is available in capsule or tablet forms at your local or internet health food store. Look for name brands to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Valerian root is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.