Valerian has been a medicinal herb for centuries. It should help against nervousness and sleep disorders. We show what’s up and explain the effects and side effects.
Valerian: you have to know that about the plant
(Photo: Utopia / Lea Hermann)
In Germany, valerian usually grows on roadsides in forests, near rivers or in parks. But some of the more than 250 different types of valerian also grow in Africa, Asia and America. You can recognize them by their tall, strong stems and pink flowers.
The effect of valerian has been known for a long time: the name alone probably comes from the Germanic god “Baldur”. In the Middle Ages, valerian was even believed to cure plague. And the well-known polymath Hildegard von Bingen also used valerian to treat pleurisy.
Today, valerian is considered to be the ultimate plant against insomnia. Valerian root extracts are found in teas, tablets, drops and juice. Because it contains the important substances that have a calming effect.
Effect of valerian
(Photo: Utopia / Lea Hermann)
Clinical Studies have proven that valerian helps with the following ailments:
- sleep disorders
- Nervousness and restlessness
This is how valerian works: The roots of valerian contain essential oils that have a calming effect on the body. The substances in the valerian root interact with the nerve cells. Specifically, the substances have an effect on the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This creates a relaxing and relaxing effect, but not immediately, but only when taken regularly.
Valerian can also improve the following symptoms:
- stomach problems
- dizziness
- Exam anxiety
- irritability
- revision
- Poor concentration
Entry into effect: The effect of valerian does not unfold immediately. It take a week or two until you feel an effect.
Take valerian: You can use valerian as tea (for example at **Avocado Store), Tablets, drops, juice and as a bath additive. To combat sleep problems, take valerian half an hour to an hour before bed. Valerian is used three times a day if there is inner restlessness recommendedso that it can develop its effect.
Side effect of valerian
(Photo: CC0 / Pixabay / gokalpiscan)
Despite the scientifically proven effect, you should never take valerian without a reason and always carefully. Since there are no long-term studies, you should not use the medicinal herb for more than six weeks in a row without consulting a doctor. Because valerian can also cause side effects, albeit rarely. This includes:
- headache
- dizziness
- itching
Also the effect of Sedatives and sleeping pills can be enhanced by valerian. To avoid interactions, you shouldn’t have any more Medication take in. This also applies to alcohol – this can lead to side effects. One Addictive does not exist with valerian.
Read more on Techzle.com:
- Sleep well even without valerian: the best tips
- Home remedies for earache: what helps?
- Planting, cutting and caring for lavender