AKA: Amantilla, all-heal, Capon's tail, Garden Heliotrope, Kediotu, Phu, Seiyo-Kanoko-So, SetWell, Vandal Root

The Valerian plant is a hardy perennial that is native to Europe and parts of Asia, but has also made its way to North America. From June to September, the plant blooms sweetly scented pink and white flowers. The root of the plant has been used as a medicinal herb since the times of the ancient Greeks, being prescribed as a remedy for insomnia due excitation or nervousness.

Benefits and Uses

• Sedative
• Relaxant
• Sleep Aid
• Hypnotic Aid
• Antispasmodic
• Mild Tranquilizer

Modern studies have found that the extract of the plant can reduce the amount of time it takes a person to fall asleep without changing normal sleep patterns. Research has also indicated that valerian root has a mild hypnotic action on both insomniacs and regular sleepers and has a positive effect on sleep latency, wake time after sleep, nocturnal motor activity, inner restlessness, quality of sleep and also stops you from waking up during the night. Also, unlike many over the counter sleep aids, people who take valerian root do not wake up sleepy and are able to recall their dreams in the morning.

Although this herb is very complex, with over 120 chemical components, it is considered a very safe plant without any negative side effects coming with moderate use. It is not considered addictive and it calms with being too much of a sedative. It will not give you a hangover and it is considered safe to drive while you are taking it. Of the 120 chemicals present in the plant, valepotriates and isovaleric acid are the ones thought to be most responsible for the sedative effect. Valepotriates have been shown to help regulate the nervous system, calming agitated nerves and acting as a stimulant for those who are fatigued.

Valerian can also be used by people who are experiencing emotional stress or are anxious. Its mild tranquilizing affect is considered similar to some prescribed anti-anxiety drugs. It has also been used to combat exhaustion and been used as a muscle relaxant. Valerian has also been used to help people ease off antidepressants or benzodiazepines. Valerian can be seen as a cheaper, reliable substitute for many over the counter narcotics that the multi-billion dollar pharmaceutical industry likes to push on the public.

Warnings

Do not take Valerian root for more than three months consecutively.
Do not take it if you have liver problems.
Do not take it along with other sleep inducing medications.

coming soon....