Health Benefits of Valerian Root
Health Benefits of Valerian Root
Valerian (valeriana officinalis), also known as valeriana, is an herb native to Europe and Asia but is also grown in North America.
The roots and rhizomes (underground stems) have been used for medicinal purposes in Ancient Greece and Rome as a great remedy for insomnia, migraines, fatigue and stomach cramps.
Valerian contains the active ingredient, valerenic acid, that has sedative effects. Scientists aren’t sure how valerian works but they believe that it increases the amount of chemical called GABA (gamma aminobuytic acid) in the brain. GABA helps regulate nerve cells and has a calming effect on anxiety.
Valerian is referred to as nature’s valium with a weaker effect.
Valerian may help you sleep better. After 60 studies, it was concluded that valerian may be safe an effective as a treatment to promote sleep and prevent associated disorders.
Valerian may help reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that people undergoing hemodialysis who consumed valerian root 1 hour before bedtime for 1 month had a significant reduction in their anxiety symptoms.
Valerian may also help improve postmenopausal symptoms. Studies have shown that 100 postmenopausal women between the ages of 50-60, who consumed 530mg of concentrated valerian extract twice a day for 4 weeks, had significantly improved sleep quality compared to those who took a placebo. Also, 30% of the participants experienced sleep improvements compared to just 4% in the placebo group.
Valerian may also help with hot flashes in menopausal women. In a 2013 study, menopausal women who consumed 225mg of valerian 3x a day for 8 weeks had reduced the severity and frequency of the hot flashes compared to those who consumed a placebo.
Valerian may also help with treat PMS symptoms, ADHD, nervousness, and headaches but more research is needed.
As always, consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3813196/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21775910/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7585905/
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/valerian
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/valerian-root
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Valerian-HealthProfessional/