Velerian Root
The root of the valerian plant, which emanates a putrid odor similar to that of bad cheese or mildewed clothing, has the power to sooth the nerves, quiet heart palpitations, stimulate digestion, strengthen the circulatory system, heal ulcers, relax and smooth muscles, relieve anxiety, ease hypertension and calm hyperactivity.
Traditionally valerian has been used medicinally to treat nervous disorders, hypochondria, migraines, insomnia, depression, cramps, croup, colic, flatulence, whooping cough, typhoid, fever, epilepsy, vertigo, convulsions, diabetes, cholera, sores, heart palpitations, stomach ulcers, vaginal yeast infections, premenstrual syndrome, bed-wetting and sleep disorders.
Hundreds of experiments have been conducted on valerian primarily in Germany and Russia. These studies have substantiated the herb’’s effectiveness in the treatment of nervous, circulatory, digestive and sleep disorders. Valerian root targets the higher brain centers, suppressing and regulating the autonomic nervous system. Consequently, valerian is very effective in dispelling psychosomatic diseases which result from a glitch in the regulation of the autonomic nervous system. Valerian pacifies the fear of hypochondriacs, soothes the nervous and calms the hysterical.
For over 10 years, valerian has been employed in Germany to treat children with behavioral disorders such as hyperactivity.
In addition to easing stress and reducing hypertension, studies who that valerian slows the heart rate while increasing the power of each beat, making the action of the heart more efficient and less strained. Since valerian also regulates the heart beat, it is very effective in the treatment of heart palpitations. In Guatemala, valerian is the key ingredient in an herb preparation used to lower blood pressure.
In addition to it benefits for the circulatory system, studies show valerian eases gastrointestinal ailments and aids digestion. The herb stimulates secretions in the stomach and the intestines, helping heal and prevent ulcers.
Whether taken in a tincture, tea or capsule, valerian has proven to be on of the safest and most effective sedatives available.
Although valerian can be taken in a variety of ways including elixir, extract, infusion, powder, solid or tincture, the herb should never be boiled since much of its therapeutic value is in the essential oils which would dissipate. The herb can be preserved in glycerin without any loss of potency.
Studies showed that valerian tincture was only effective in a large enough dose. One full teaspoon of tincture relieved smooth muscle spasms, induced sleep and acted as a sedative.
Adding valerian to other herb formulas enhances their tonic, antispasmodic and nervine properties. For example, a combination of hot valerian and cayenne pepper has been used to treat hysteria, convulsions and colic.