Valerian

Valerian is a tall herb with whitish-pink flowers that grows in damp places.

It is a perennial and reaches a height of five feet.

As the root dries it develops an odor that some compare to the smell of dirty socks, this smell is said to attract cats. Valerian root has been used for more than a 1,000 years for its calming effect and is one of the most useful relaxing nervines that is available to us. Recent research has confirmed the plant's efficacy and safety as a mild tranquilizer and sleep aid.

It has been found to hasten the onset of sleep, improve sleep quality, and reduce nighttime awakenings for those who suffer from insomnia.

It does not leave morning grogginess and does not interfere with the vivid dreaming sleep known as REM sleep, unlike prescribedbarbiturates or benzodiazepines.

TARGET AILMENTS

Take internally for:

* insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, anxiety-induced heart palpitations.

* headache.

* intestinal pains.

* menstrual cramps.

* rheumatic pain.

* tranquillizer withdrawal.

PREPARATIONS

Over the counter:

The plant is widely available dried, in capsules, tinctures, and teas.

At home:

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion: Pour a cup of boiling water onto 1-2 teaspoonfuls of the root and let infuse for 10-15 minutes. Add a little honey or sugar to make the tea more palatable.

Tincture : Take 2-4ml of the tincture three times a day.

Parts used: Dried roots

Collection: The roots of the plant are unearthed in the late Fall. They are thoroughly cleaned and dried in the shade.

Actions: Sedative, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic, hypotensive, carminative, aromatic, nervine

Combinations: For tension relief, Valerian combines well with Skullcap. For help with insomnia it can be combined with Hops and Passion Flower.

SIDE EFFECTS

Not serious:

A mild headache or upset stomach may develop, if so, reduce dosage and let your doctor know if it continues.

Serious:

If too much of the herb is taken, severe headaches, restlessness, nausea, morninggrogginess, or blurred vision may occur.

SPECIAL INFORMATION:

* Do not take this herb with conventional sedatives or tranquilizers, because of addictive effects.

* This herb may produce excitability in some people.

* Since this herb does have sedative side effects, be careful about driving until you know how the herb affects you.

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