Traditionally known for its relaxing action, the famous valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) is a plant that has been shown to have an activity similar to some tranquilizing drugs.

For this reason has earned medical trustand in many countries it is commonly prescribed instead of benzodiazepines to calm anxiety and combat nervous tension.

The advantage that presents against drugs the thing is does not create dependency or cause the side effects attributed to these, such as drowsiness or difficulty concentrating.

How valerian works: this is its sedative action

The medicinal properties of valerian They have been known since Roman times. In fact, its name seems to derive from the term I’ll be worth itwhich in Latin means “to be in good health.”

Initially, Its calming effect was attributed to the essential oil extracted from the root. This oil has a pungent and unpleasant odor, that attracts cats: hence, popularly, it is also known as “cat grass”. The essential oil accounts for up to 1% of its weight, and contains alkaloids (valerine, valerianine, chatinine), tannins, resins, valerianic acid, isovaleric acid, etc.

In 1966 they isolated themselves other of its components, the valepotriatos (which have a depressive biological activity on the central nervous system), and it was said that its sedative action was due only to themdespite its great instability in the face of heat and its limited presence in most commercial presentations.

Finally, In 1988, it was demonstrated that the components of this plant do not exert a significant sedative action unless they are all present together.

Multiple uses of valerian beyond calming

Valerian has various applications but basically it is used in pharmaceutical industryand is a common component of calming herbal teas.

• In traditional medicine It is used for its antispasmodic, calming, carminative, stomachic, vermifuge and tonic properties. And it is used in cases of fever, fatigue, headache, insomnia, epilepsy and hypertension.
• In traditional Chinese medicine It is used in influenza, rheumatism, neurasthenia, insomnia and trauma.

Many clinical stages have shown that valerian not very effective in the acute treatment of insomnia.

In fact, its main usefulness lies in its ability to promote natural sleep, especially when taken regularly for several weeks. Therefore, when used correctly, It is a gentle alternative to hypnotics and tranquilizers (synthetic benzodiazepines) in patients with chronic sleep disorders.

How to take valerian: recommendations for use

To make valerian infusion you will find the dry root.

Valerian root can also be taken in the form of liquid extract (tinctures or herbal teas)but his taste and smell are strong and can be somewhat unpleasant, so there are those who prefer to opt for the pills or tabletswhich may sometimes contain other herbs, depending on their indication.

Precautions and side effects

Its consumption does not present toxicity problems, so can be taken in relatively high doses without causing side effects important.

Nevertheless, Prolonged consumption can cause certain dependenceso it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Your take It should not be combined with stimulants such as coffee, or with other tranquilizers.

4 valerian infusions to feel good

These are some useful remedies that can be prepared at home with valerian:

Valerian against insomnia

The dose must be relatively high, especially in people accustomed to synthetic tranquilizers.such as benzodiazepines,

In these cases it is recommended to take a concentrated herbal tea accompanied by two valerian capsules. an hour before bedtime. Repeat the intake when you go to bed.

You can make valerian infusion with two teaspoons of dried root per cup of water or combine it with other plants, such as lemon balm, passionflower, and lavender.

Infusion to calm anxiety

An infusion three times a dayHelps combat anxiety and nervous irritability. To prepare it Boil one teaspoon of valerian root per cup for 15 minutes. Strain it, let it rest for 10 minutes and drink it.

You can also take it mixed with other plants, such as lemon balm, mint and orange blossom.

Valerian as a muscle relaxant

Put half a liter of water on the heat and, when it starts to boil, add a dessert spoon of dried valerian root and another of dried devil’s claw rootand let boil one minute. Turn off the fire and remove.

Once cold, let it marinate overnight in the refrigerator. In the morning, it is strained and taken two cups, one before breakfast and one before dinner.

Infusion against hypertension

Pour a tablespoon of valerian, mistletoe, olive and hawthorn in equal parts in 250 ml of waterit is left Let it boil for a minute and let it rest for 10. minutes.

It is strained and taken warm, a cup after breakfast and another after dinner.