Valerian
Valeriana officinalis – root
Valerian is most well known for its sedating and relaxing properties and has long been used for people with anxiety, nervousness, restlessness, muscle pain and insomnia.
Actions
- Anxiolytic.
- Sedative.
- Hypnotic, antispasmodic.
- Relaxing Nervine.
- Anticonvulsant.
Indications
- Insomnia (especially sleep onset insomnia).
- Anxiety, stress, depression.
- Muscle tension, pain, menstrual cramping.
- Spasmodic coughing.
- Combined with lemon balm to improve sleep quality.
- Relief of headache, muscle cramps.
Notes
Historically patients who have responded best to valerian include those presenting with a lack of adequate exercise and/or mental relaxation and manifest stress associated with despondency and mental depression.
Contra-indications and Cautions
Care should be taken when driving a car or operating heavy machinery when high doses are used.
Use caution when taking valerian concurrently with pharmaceutical sedatives. This interaction may be beneficial under professional supervision.
