Insomnia and fatigue from inadequate rest at night are among the most common consequences of the hectic rhythm of modern urban society. There are various remedies for solving these problems, but what makes valerian root stand out is its natural origin and the absence of side effects.
A few words about valerian
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a perennial herb with white or pink flowers, reaching up to 1.50 meters in height. Its homeland is Europe and some parts of Asia, but today it can be found all over the world. In Bulgaria it is known as medicinal dilyanka and is found almost everywhere at an altitude of up to 1700 m.
Valerian root is used for medicinal purposes, as it is rich in essential oils, including valeric acid, less volatile sesquiterpenes, and valepotriates – esters of short-chain fatty acids. It is these active substances that are responsible for the calming and restorative effect of the underground part of the plant on the central nervous system.
The history of valerian root as a medicinal remedy stretches back to Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome. Hippocrates, considered the father of medicine, described its calming properties, and a few centuries later Dioscurides and Galen recommended it as an antidote to certain poisons. In the Middle Ages, the root was used to treat epilepsy. Today, valerian is most widely used as part of the therapy of various nervous conditions.
Health effects of valerian
→ Helps with sleep problems – The active substances in valerian have the ability to increase levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that suppresses the activity of neurons and has a calming effect. By increasing its concentration, valerian root helps not only to fall asleep faster, but also to improve the quality of sleep. In addition, unlike most other sleeping pills, the extract of the plant has practically no side effects and does not cause drowsiness in the morning.
→ Helps manage anxiety – Valerianic acid and valerenol stimulate the release of GABA, thereby helping to stabilize the central nervous system and reduce anxiety. Increased levels of the neurotransmitter allow the brain to relax, which means the root also contributes to reducing tension and stress from everyday life.
→ Helps Lower High Blood Pressure – Given valerian’s ability to help the mind and body relax, it’s no wonder it also has a positive effect on heart health. The same active ingredients that help reduce anxiety and tension also help normalize blood pressure.
→ Relieves menstrual cramps – Thanks to its relaxing effect, valerian is an excellent natural remedy for relieving menstrual cramps. The active substances in its composition help the muscles to relax and thus suppress the powerful contractions of the smooth muscles of the uterus, which cause terrible pain in some women during their monthly cycle.
In addition, valerian root extract helps relieve the symptoms of restless legs syndrome, helps reduce hot flashes during menopause, and has a pain-relieving effect.
Method of administration:
For people over 18 years of age: 1-2 capsules daily, 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime.
