herbs - Valerian (Valerian officinalis)

What is it?

Valerian is an attractive perennial with pretty pink flowers. It grows throughout Europe and is now established in North America. The root has been used medicinally as far back as the 1st century AD. Valerian was used to treat soldiers with ‘shell shock’ during World War II.

Action

Valerian contains many active constituents, including volatile oils, irridoids and alkaloids. Valerian influences levels of GABA, an amino acid found in the brain, which helps combat stress. This herb taken in small doses is calming without causing drowsiness. Larger doses become mildly sedative and help restore regular sleep patterns. As a bonus Valerian is an effective antispasmodic and analgesic, which is of use in cramps of the digestive system.

Uses

Our experts recommend Valerian for the following disorders:

  • Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome
  • Anxiety
  • Atypical Facial Pain
  • Dysphagia
  • Entropion
  • Globus
  • High blood pressure
  • Hyperventilation
  • Hysteria
  • Insomnia Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • The healthy heart program
  • Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
  • Neuralgia
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
  • panic attacks
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Portal hypertension
  • Sleep disorders
  • Spasticity

Other information

Valerian is one of the best herbs for stress and the digestive problems associated with stress, such as IBS. It is also useful for colic and stomach cramps and for reducing night-time pain. It is available in tablets, capsules or tincture, and it is often combined with the herb, Passiflora.

Valerian can be used in tincture form for children 1 year of age and above. Herb tincture dosage is lower than adult levels - a simple guide for children is one drop per stone of weight.

Cautions

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk).
The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.