VALERIAN ROOT - PERFECT HERBAL REMEDY FOR SLEEP AND ANXIETY-min

VALERIAN ROOT – PERFECT HERBAL REMEDY FOR SLEEP AND ANXIETY

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If you are a victim of insomnia and anxiety, you might have thought of finding out the best treatment methods.Valerian root is one of the best remedies to add to your diet.

Many dietitians prefer valerian root. Some people claim that valerian root helps keep at bay lack of sleep and anxiety that causes nervous tension. For a couple of centuries, valerian roots are the best natural herbals that treat various health conditions. For instance,they were used to manage headaches, stress, nervousness, and insomnia in Greece and Rome. In one way or another, it might just be the perfect remedy to chronic insomnia you have had for years.

What Is Valerian Root?

The word “valerian” was derived from a Latin word or verb that means “strong” or “healthy” It is a special type of plant that grows for more than two seasons. Furthermore, it is scientifically known as Valeriana officinalis. This is a native plant found in the wild grasslands of Asia, Europe, and throughout North America. Currently, it is grown in the United States, China, and other countries.This powerful plant produces flowers in summer with different colors, such as pink, white, and purple. These flowers were used to make colognes a long time ago. Furthermore, the roots are used to make herbal medicine since the times of our forefathers.

Herbs extracted from valerian roots have a strong scent and sedative effects due to strong compounds and volatile oils.

Mode of Action of Valerian Roots

 valerian roots supplements have many potential health benefits, such as promote quality sleep and reduce anxiety. These benefits are achieved by the strong compounds present, such as antioxidants, allergenic acid, and isovaleric acid.Furthermore, a published study has shown that valerian interacts directly with GABA. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a chemical mediator responsible for regulating nerve impulses in the brain and the entire nervous system.  Several studies conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information have shown that anxiety and poor-quality sleep are associated with reduced GABA levels that result from chronic stress. Researchers strongly believe that the breakdown of GABA in the brain is inhibited by taking valerenic acid. A feeling of calmness and tranquility symptomizes this condition. There are various anti-anxiety remedies, such as Valium and Xanax, that act as valerenic acid.One study published in Science Direct found that hesperidin and linarin are present in valerian root. They are proven to be powerful antioxidants that are associated with the effects of sedation and enhancing sleep.Another study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information indicated that these antioxidants help to counteract hyperactivity in the amygdala, a part of the brain responsible for controlling stress by processing fear and strong emotions.

Valerian Root Can Help Reduce Anxiety and Help You Relax

People respond to stressful situations in different ways. It is difficult to stay calm under stressful situations.Numerous studies carried out by the National Center for Biotechnology Information indicate that taking herbs or supplements containing valerian roots helps youfix a hard day and ease feelings of anxiety. For instance, the National Center for Biotechnology Information studied rats before a maze experiment. They found that after treating them with valerian root, they remained calm by displaying less anxious behavior.

Another study on humans by the same board discovered that combining valerian and lemon balmreduced anxiety.This was achieved by selecting few adults that were given a challenging mental test.Apart from reducing anxiety related to acute stress response, valerian root is associated with the management of chronic conditions displayed with anxious behaviors, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and generalized anxiety disorder.A certain study was carried out on individuals with OCD by giving them extracts of valerian roots every day for eight weeks. As a result,there was a remarkable reduction in obsessive and compulsive traits compared to the control group. Additionally, valerian did not exhibit or produce any side effects associated with drugs used to manage OCD.

Valerian Root May Help Promote Your Sleep

Lack of quality sleep at night is disappointing, especially after a busy day. This is a common condition referred to as insomnia. Up to 30% of people worldwide have insomnia. Furthermore, taking valerian root periodically reduces the time to fall asleep and improves sleep quality.

Other Health Benefits Related to Valerian Root

Several studies have shown that apart from improving sleep and reduce anxiety, valerian root improves menstrual by reduces pains. Furthermore, it reduces complications of menopause, such as hot flashes. It is advisable to take 765 mg per day to reduce symptoms of poor sleep and anxiety. Additionally, it reduces symptoms of restless leg syndrome when taken at 800 mg per day, promotes better behavior, and increases antioxidant levels in people with Parkinson’s disease to protect them from free radicles.

Conclusion

Valerian is a natural herb that with the healthiest flowers that are used to make perfumes. At the same time, the root portion is used to make herbal medicine. This herbal has many potential health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving sleep, relieving anxiety, and prevents constipation. Compounds in valerian root interact with GABA to produce a calming effect in the body. Furthermore, they are free from chemical substances that cause health problems, such as diarrhea, migraine, and vomiting.

Crystal Kadir

MS, Durham University
GP

The work of a family doctor includes a wide range of clinical diversity, which requires extensive knowledge and erudition from a specialist. However, I believe that the most important thing for a family doctor is to be human because the cooperation and understanding between the doctor and the patient are crucial in ensuring successful health care. On my days off, I love being in nature. Since childhood, I have been passionate about playing chess and tennis. Whenever I have time off, I enjoy traveling around the world.

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