Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Herb: Uses , Works and Side Effects
Valerian Herb
Valerian belongs to the Valerianaceae family. A perennial plant, it is present in Europe, Asia and North America. Other names include setwall (English), Valerianae radix (Latin), Baldrianwurzel (German), and phu (Greek). It grows about two to four feet high and has trumpet-shaped flowers. The roots are used medicinally. Although the fresh root is relatively odorless, the dried root has an odor often considered as unpleasant as dirty socks’. Dried roots are prepared as teas or tinctures. Dried plant materials and extracts are put into capsules or incorporated into tablets.
Uses
Valerian is most commonly used for sleep disorders, especially the inability to sleep (insomnia). It is frequently combined with hops, lemon balm, or other herbs that also cause drowsiness. One advantage of valerian is that it may not have a hangover-effect the following day. Those who are trying to withdraw from sleeping pills use valerian to help them sleep. Valerian is also used, as a muscle relaxant for conditions connected to anxiety, psychological stress, nervous asthma, hysterical states, excitability, restlessness, fear of illness (hypochondria), headaches and migraine. It lowers blood pressure and eases heart palpitations. It has been used for gastrointestinal spasms and distress, epileptic seizures, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). It eases menstrual pain and colic, and relieves gas and bloating.
How it works
Valerian contains many chemical constituents which include volatile oils (sesquiterpenes and monoterpenes), valepotriates, alkaloids, and lignans. The sesquiterpenes are considered the primary source of the pharmacological effects. The valepotriates have also been characterized, and consist of a furanopyranoid monoterpene skeleton found in glycosylated forms known as iridoids. The valepotriates act as pro-drugs that are metabolized into compounds more active than the parent compound. Seven alkaloids have been isolated. Valerian increases the amount of a chemical called gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA helps regulate nerve cells and has a calming effect on anxiety.
Side effects
Valerian has not been reported to interact with any drugs, or to influence laboratory tests. It doesn’t have any serious side effects. Women who are pregnant or nursing, and children younger than 3 years old, should not take valerian. Individuals taking valerian should be aware of the theoretical possibility of additive sedative effects from alcohol or sedative drugs, such as barbiturates and benzodiazepines.
Category: HERBS
