*The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only.*
Welcome back! This week we are covering Valerian root, a very wonderful plant that has a long standing throughout history for it's effects. So let's get to it!
Valerian root, derived from the plant Valeriana officinalis, boasts a rich history intertwined with herbal medicine spanning thousands of years. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, prized this herb for its purported therapeutic effects, using it as a remedy for insomnia, anxiety, and various nervous conditions. As the curtain of history unfurled, the traditional uses of valerian root were retained and even expanded upon, and its place in the annals of natural remedies remains prominent even today, further amplified by ongoing scientific studies.
Perhaps the most heralded and documented benefit of valerian root lies in its sleep-promoting capabilities. Numerous scientific investigations have revealed that individuals taking valerian root preparations often experience they fall asleep quicker and an overall improvement in sleep quality. These sleep-enhancing properties can be attributed to the various compounds found in the root, notably valerianic acid (aka pentanoic acid). This compound is thought to interact with the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system within the brain, a neurotransmitter system critical for modulating neural excitability and, subsequently, inducing sedation.
Beyond its role in promoting restful sleep, valerian root has gained attention as a natural remedy to assuage anxiety and stress. The mechanism by which it fosters a tranquil mind mirrors that of its sleep-inducing effects, largely mediated through the modulation of the GABA system. By enhancing the activity of GABA in the brain, valerian root can help weaken the neural response to stressors, leading to an overall calming effect on the central nervous system.
In addition to its primary uses, valerian root has been investigated for other potential medicinal purposes. Due to it's analgesic (pain killing) properties preliminary research has suggested its efficacy in alleviating the pain associated with menstrual cycles as it will work on relaxing smooth muscles. Another use for Valerian root is that it act on blood vessels causing them to dilate which in turn lowers blood pressure and stabilizes pulse rates. While these secondary benefits need more extensive research to be fully validated, they open the door to a broader understanding of the multifaceted effects of this traditional remedy.
For my nicotine addicted friends out there, Valerian root has shown to help aid in curbing that addiction. By using it's calming effects it reduces the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal which usually incudes irritability, anger, frustration, depression, anxiety, and many more. It is best to use it in a tincture form when trying to combat nicotine withdrawal,
It's important to note that Valerian Root is extremely addicting and it's advised to use caution when using. In normal doses it's effects are described as above however, if large repeated doses are occurring it can cause central nervous system (CNS) depression. Symptoms of this include stupor, heaviness, and pain in the head. Of course, CNS depression is not limited to these symptoms. Please use with caution! It is also advised to not use Valerian root while pregnant as the effects are unknown.
Let's talk a little bit about how to identify this plant. It is a somewhat tall plant that grows 1-5 feet in height, has a straight round stem and is topped by a cluster of white to pink flowers in an umbrella shape. The leaves are opposite of each other and have jagged edges. The seeds are
edible and are reported to be delicious if lightly roasted. Leaves are edible as well and have the same effects as the roots just in a decreased potency. It's best to cut off the flowers once they start to show up so that way the plant can put it's energy into growing a nice strong root. When harvesting the root you want to make sure you dig far enough down to get the entire root system. Once you have the root you will want to slice it into small sections and let it dry completely.
With all that being said, Valerian root's longstanding reputation in herbal medicine is not without reason. Its potent effects on sleep and anxiety, grounded both in traditional use and scientific inquiry, make it a valuable tool in the natural remedy toolkit. As research continues to shine a light on its broader medicinal applications, valerian root is set to maintain its esteemed position in the world of natural health and wellness.
Have you tried Valerian Root supplements or harvested your own? I'd like to know! As always, feel free to reach out with any questions. Always remember that happiness is homemade. Until next time...
*The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only.*
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