Remedies Using Valerian Root

Valerian root or also known as valeriana officinalis, common valerian, garden heliotrope and garden valerian has been used as a remedy for insomnia and other sleeping disorders for ages. During the time of Hippocrates, valerian herb was already recognized as an herb that produces calmative, sedative, antispasmodic and tranquilizing effects.

There are more than 100 compounds in valerian and some of the constituents are acetic acid, ascorbic acid, caffeic acid and valerenic acid. It also contains minerals such as calcium, manganese and magnesium as well as a flavonoid called quercetin.

In this present day, valerian herb is still used as a natural sleep aid to help induce sleep and to treat sleeping problems such as restless and sleepless nights. One of the benefits of taking valerian instead of sleeping pills is the absence of side effects such as feeling groggy upon awakening.

Other uses of valerian include relaxing the nervous system. Its calming effect is helpful as a remedy for anxiety and fatigue. Valerian extract is also used as a remedy for menstrual cramps and restless leg syndrome.

Drinking valerian tea and sprinkling or inhaling lavender oil before bedtime will not only induce sleep but also prevent sleep disturbances. Another combination to help insomniacs get a restful sleep is valerian and hop herb.

If you are allergic to it, valerian root side effects may include headache, stomach ache and feeling tired when you wake up from sleep. If you follow the prescription according to the label of the supplement and avoid overdose, it's unlikely to cause any side effects. If you are pregnant or on prescription medication, it's best to consult your doctor first before trying the herbal extract.

You can make valerian tea from the cut, dried and sifted root or use valerian tea bag. To make valerian tea, add 1 teaspoon of the dried root in a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 10 minutes before straining and adding sweetener. Valerian extract is also available in capsules, liquid extract and tinctures. Some formulas combine valerenic acid with other herbs such as passionflower, St John's wort and lemon balm herb extract as a remedy for insomnia, moodiness, muscle spasms and menstrual and menopausal symptoms.

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