Valerian root is one of the most important non-addictive plant-based sedatives. The main and clinically approved uses of valerian are nervousness and restlessness, as well as difficulty falling asleep and general sleep disorders. In combination with other substances, it is used for mild nervous disorders, severe nervous stress states, restlessness and insomnia, poor performance and poor concentration.
Apply valerian
However, valerian, in addition to having sedative and antispasmodic properties, also has a slightly psychologically stimulating effect. Therefore, the drug also affects feelings of anxiety and tension and evokes a state of balance.
The drug also has an effect on menopausal symptoms, as well as on anxiety that sets in during the days before menstruation.
Valerian is also available in the form of baths. Added to the bath water, the root has a mild sedative effect and relieves muscle tension.
Valerian in folk medicine and homeopathy.
In folk medicine, valerian has been used for centuries as an antispasmodic agent for all spasmodic disorders. For example, the drug is said to relieve pain in the gastrointestinal tract and is also used for spastic inflammatory symptoms of the colon (colitis).
Traditionally, valerian root is also said to support the cardiovascular system during nervous stress. In the Middle Ages, the drug was also considered a remedy for the plague and other epidemics.
In homeopathy, valerian is used for disorders of the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, heart, as well as the musculoskeletal system.
Ingredients of valerian
Valerian root contains less than 1% essential oil, and the main ingredient of the oil is bornyl acetate. The content of essential oil is highest in the root harvested in autumn.
If the root is carefully dried, it contains 0.5-2% of valepotriates. Valepotriates are substances that undergo chemical transformation when the plant is dried and give the plant its characteristic odor.
Background: Valepotriates are highly reactive, which is why they are considered potentially carcinogenic. However, aqueous or aqueous-alcoholic extracts of valerian contain these compounds in such low concentrations that a hazard is usually excluded. The drug should be stored in a dry place and protected from light.
Furthermore, valerian root contains small amounts of flavonoids, as well as free fatty acids, sugars, starches, and alkaloids, among other compounds, which are thought to have an excitatory effect on cats.
Indications for which valerian can help
Valerian may be effective for the following indications:
- Insomnia
- Sleep disorders
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Restlessness
- Restlessness
- Nervousness
- Lack of concentration
- Weakness in performance
- Menopausal symptoms
- Anxiety
- Muscle tension
