Good Lifestyle

Nothing is more frustrating than a bad night's sleep. It is estimated thatInsomnia affects at least one third of the world adult population. If you try to treat your insomnia naturally, you may have sought things likefoods that can help you sleep better. But if you always find yourself throwing and turning until morning, you may want to try an on-the-counter supplement that will help you get these zzz. Valerian is a single choice recommended to promote quality sleep, but it's worth learning more about its benefits before trying.

What is Valerian?

This perennial plant naturally grows in Europe and Asia and is now established in North America. It grows large pink and white flowers that smell a little vanilla, but leaves have an unpleasant odor, often described as stormy feet. Valerian products sold in the United States are manufactured from the roots and stems of the plant. They come in the form of extracts, teas, dyes, dried plants, capsules or tablets.

What are the benefits for the health of Valérian?

The old Greeks and the Romans used Valerian as aMedicinal herb to treat insomnia. Since then, it has also been used for epilepsy, gastrointestinal distress and attention deficit disorder throughout history, although these uses do not have scientific research behind them.

Proverbially, Valerian has been used primarily to help with insomnia, although the exact compound in the plant that helps with a deep sleep has not been isolated yet. It is suspected that all components work together to promote rest, but more research is needed to achieve conclusive results. Nutritionists Barbara Moschitta, MPS RDN, says Valerian can be beneficial to help short-term sleep disturbance, "if it is in the short term, this can be effective. It works on the central nervous system and relaxes it. "

There are some indications that Valerian can be used to reduce blood pressure and help the digestive system work, although they are not proven. It can also have promising benefits to control the pain and rheumatism of migraine.

But some studies have shown that Valerian can help reduce muscle spasms or cramps and could helpWomen who suffer from pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS).

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How many valerian do I have to take?

When Valerian is added to commercial teas, like theTraditional medicines Night night extra tea, it is usually mixed with other relaxing herbs likePassionLower and lemon balm.The dosage in a tea bag is 450 milligrams per serving.

The American family doctor website confirms similar dosage information: "on the basis of the studies examined, the effective dosage of the root extract of the Valerian for the treatment of insomnia varies from 300 to 600 milligrams. An equivalent dose of the root of the Valerian based Dried plants are 2 to 3 grams, soaked in a cup of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. The product must be ingested 30 minutes to two hours before bedtime. "

Does something interact with Valérien?

Moschitta urges caution when you take a supplement, but especially a person who can cause drowsiness, "you have to be very careful. If you are on other anti-anxiety medications or other types of anti-anxiety drugs, they could interact. "

Valerian can increase the effects of narcotics sedation and interact with other supplements, such as St. John's Wortman. However, most people do not have any side effects when taking Valerian and are considered safe for the treatment of insomnia, especially if it is used consistently over a few weeks.

The Mayo Clinic warns that chronic insomnia may indicate other conditions. It is always better to consult your doctor before changing your health plan.