Valerian valerian root plantSince ancient times, it has been used for its calming and sleep-inducing effect.
It is perhaps one of the most commonly used natural remedies to bring sleep. It is also used to relieve feelings of anxiety and anxiety, relieve menopausal symptoms, and promote spiritual relaxation.
In the article “What is valerian "," What are the benefits and harms of valerian "," Are there any side effects of valerian " questions will be answered.
What is Valerian Root?
Scientific name “Valeriana officinalis", The one valerian rootIs a plant that grows in Asia and Europe. It is also grown in the USA, China and other countries.
The flowers of the plant were used centuries ago to make perfumes. The root part has been used in traditional medicine for at least 2.000 years.
Valerian rootIt has a very strong fragrance due to essential oils and other compounds responsible for their sedative effects.
Valerian extract, extractvalerian root pill and capsule available as reinforcement. The herb can also be brewed and drunk as a tea.
What Does Valerian Root Do?
The herb contains a number of compounds that aid sleep and reduce anxiety. These are valerenic acid, isovaleric acid and various antioxidants.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), found in the plant, is a chemical messenger that regulates nerve impulses in the brain and nervous system. Low GABA levels, researchers anxiety and shown to be linked to poor quality sleep.
Valerenic acid calms and gives peace of mind by preventing the breakdown of GABA in the brain.
Valerian rootIt also contains antioxidants consisting of hesperidin and linarin, which have drowsy properties.
What Are the Benefits of Valerian Root?
Valerian root is calming
Research indicates that the herb can help relieve anxious feelings that arise in response to stressful situations.
A study in healthy adults given difficult mental tests, valerian root and lemon combination has been shown to reduce anxiety.
In addition to reducing anxiety in response to acute stress, the root of the plant is also beneficial in chronic conditions characterized by anxious behaviors such as generalized anxiety disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Valerian root insomnia
Sleep disturbances are quite common. About 30% of people insomnia It is estimated that he is living, that is, he has difficulty sleeping.
Studies have shown that when the root of the plant is taken as a supplement, it improves the quality and quantity of sleep, as well as reducing the time required to fall asleep.
In a controlled study of 27 young and middle-aged adults with sleeping difficulties using valerian root 24 people reported that their sleep problem decreased.
It reduces stress
When anxiety levels decrease and sleep quality improves, stress will become more manageable. Valerian rootBy increasing GABA levels, it relaxes the body and mind.
Studies also valerian rootIt shows that it can help suppress both physical and psychological stress.
Relieves pain
Valerian root It reduces the sensitivity of the nerves and therefore acts as a great pain reliever.
Researches, valerian rootIt shows that it can have analgesic effects on the muscles. It can work as a muscle relaxant. Valerian rootCan treat headaches as well - but more research on this is needed.
Regulates blood pressure
Valerian rootIts same properties that reduce anxiety and stress also help regulate blood pressure. This naturally lowers blood pressure and keeps it at a healthy level. valerian root supplementIt is also valid for s.
May help treat bipolar disorder
Thanks to its calming properties valerian root, bipolar disorder It can also help in the treatment.
Relieves menstrual cramps
Valerian rootIts pain-relieving nature can be used to relieve menstrual cramps. The root can reduce the severity of the cramps. Due to the natural sedative and antispasmodic nature of the root, it suppresses muscle spasms and relaxes muscles.
According to a study conducted in Iran, the root can soothe uterine contractions, that is, contractions that cause severe menstrual pain. Valerian root extracthas been found to reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
May alleviate menopausal symptoms
MenopauseIn a study with women in 765 mg per day valerian treatment During the eight-week treatment period, the severity of hot flashes decreased significantly.
May help treat restless leg syndrome
With restless leg syndrome an eight-week study in subjects, 800 mg per day valerian root The area showed that their symptoms had improved and their insomnia had decreased.
Can be used for Parkinson's disease
A study, receiving valerian extractFound that mice with Parkinson's disease led to better behavior, a decrease in inflammation, and an increase in antioxidant levels.
Benefits and Side Effects of Valerian Root
Vivid dreams
One of the most commonly reported side effects of the herb is vivid dreams. In a study, valerian ve kavaThe side effects for insomnia have been studied. Researchers gave 24 people 6 mg of kava per day for 120 weeks, then 2 mg per day for 6 weeks after a 600-week break. valerian root He was given.
Most respondents experienced no side effects, while 16% valerian treatment she had vivid dreams during her time.
The plant can cause vivid dreams because it contains essential oil and compounds called iridoid glycosides. These compounds stimulate opioid receptors and serotonin production in the brain, producing relaxing and antidepressive effects.
Because, valerian root Typically not recommended for people prone to unpleasant dreams because it can cause nightmares.
Heart palpitations
Heart palpitations mean that the heart beats faster than normal. Historical reports show that the root of the plant was used to treat heart palpitations until the 16th century.
Still some people Using valerian root or had heart palpitations as a side effect of quitting.
Dry mouth and stomach discomfort
Valerian root May cause mild to moderate dry mouth and digestive effects. Some people report an increase in intestinal activity after using it.
Likewise, these laxative effects diarrhea or may cause unwanted symptoms such as stomach upset. Some people report developing dry mouth after taking it as a supplement.
Headache and mental confusion
Valerian root Although it has historically been used to relieve headaches, some people have reported an increase in headaches and mental confusion after using it.
Most of these side effects are due to prolonged or high-dose use of the herb.
Drug interactions
As with other herbs, in combination with other substances and medicines valerian root should be careful when using. Although serious side effects seem rare, some sources report that they may interact with:
Alcohol
Antidepressants
Sedatives such as anticonvulsants, benzodiazepines, and sleep aids
- Drugs
Statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs)
Some antifungal medications
Antihistamines
John's Wort
Valerian rootshould not be taken in conjunction with high doses of drugs used in sedatives or other sleep-inducing drugs.
Using the plant with some of these substances may cause excessive sleepiness or worsen depression.
Valerian root It may also slow the breakdown of medications by the liver, causing them to build up in the body or be less effective.
Moreover, young children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to lack of safety information valerian rootshould not use nudes.
Weakness
Overdose valerian rootcan cause fatigue, especially in the morning. In some people, it can cause headaches, stomach upset, mental dullness, heart ailments, and even insomnia. If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor.
During pregnancy and breastfeeding valerian rootThere is not enough information about the use of. Therefore, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, in terms of safety valerian root do not use.
Problems during surgery
Valerian rootslows down the central nervous system, and anesthesia does the same during surgery. The combined effect can be harmful. Therefore, at least two weeks before surgery valerian root leave it.
Problems with children
In children under 3 years of age valerian root There is not enough research on its intake. Therefore, it is best for them to stay away.
How to Use Valerian Root?
To treat insomnia, the following doses are recommended. You may need to adjust it to yourself depending on your size, tolerance, and other factors.
Dry powder extract - Between 250 and 600 milligrams
Tea - Before drinking, soak one teaspoon of dried root in a glass of boiling water for five to ten minutes.
Tincture - Use one and a half teaspoons.
Liquid extract - Use half to a teaspoon.
To treat anxiety, it's recommended to take 120 to 200 milligrams four times a day.
While this herb is generally well tolerated, there have been several reports of possible valerian toxicity due to severe symptoms including headache, liver toxicity, chest tightness, abdominal pain, and tremors.
Valerian root Read product labels and instructions before use. Some products may contain higher dosages than recommended.
Higher dose valerian root we don't know how safe it is. Therefore, please follow what your doctor says.
Use of valerian root makes you feel sleepy. Therefore, do not drive or operate heavy machinery after consumption. It is best to take it before going to bed.
As a result;
Valerian root It is a sleep aid supplement that is widely considered safe.
Still, some people have reported some minor side effects such as vivid dreams, heart palpitations, dry mouth, digestive upset, headache, and mental confusion.
