Many people suffer from insomnia in today’s stressful world.
Besides making one tired, insomnia can lead to more serious health conditions, like high bloodpressure.
Valerian root is considered generally safe to consume and has been used for hundreds of years as a natural sleep aid.
Valerian root is a herb used to treat insomnia and sleep disorders. It is also an effective treatment for anxiety, as it reduces the dangerous effects of stress.
In 1982, a double-blind study was conducted on 128 subjects. Results showed that Valerian was just as effective as some prescription sleep aids and also increased the quality of sleep.
This herb has been researched extensively. While not as potent as some prescription sleep medicines, it is safer and has fewer side effects. It also doesn’t produce a hangover effect and mental grogginess.
Besides getting to sleep, it will also improve the quality of sleep, helping you to feel more well rested in the morning. Valerian root is considered by many people as the very best natural insomnia treatment.
There are active compounds contained in this root that can increase gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) in the brain. This is what causes a person taking it to fall asleep easier and stay sleeping longer.
Valerian root reduces the time it takes to get to sleep, lengthens the sleep period and decreases motor activity and restlessness during sleep.
This herb is also taken by many people to treat anxiety. Since it increases GABA production in the brain, it has a calming effect on the individual. GABA makes you feel relaxed and less nervous.
Valerian seems to be good for treating muscle pain, headache relief and relieving joint pain. More research needs to be done on this aspect of this herb.
Valerian root is best taken right before bed time. It doesn’t function like a prescription sleeping. It should be taken nightly, as it’s effects gradually build over time.