Valerian for Anxiety Treatment
Herbal remedies have been the subject of both research and ridicule for many centuries now. Some see them as the balance between effectiveness and safety, while others see them as inferior to the chemical medications we commercialize today. One of the famous herbal remedies worth mentioning is valerian.
A perennial flowering plant that grows mostly in Eurasia, valerian is recognized by its pink and/or white trumpet-shaped flowers. Typically at around four feet high, this plant’s roots have been used for centuries as medicine for different ailments, especially anxiety.
The “Father of Medicine” Hippocrates has been said to administer valerian for digestive problems. However, it was only during the eighteenth century when the plant’s sedative properties became known. Upon this discovery, doctors started to prescribe it for conditions like insomnia, exhaustion, stress, and many others linked to anxiety. Up to now, it is still an herbal remedy recommended by herbalists.
This plant has also been subjected to rigorous medical research. While scientists are still not certain about the cause of valerian’s sedative properties, it is mostly believed now that it affects the neurotransmitters in the brain like benzodiazepines, which are mostly found in Valium and Xanax. This means that it works by blocking certain enzymes that break down gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitting chemical that is linked to mood, relaxation, and sleep.
However, valerian has more long term effects, unlike benzodiazepines. While the conventional prescription drugs wear off after several hours, the effects of valerian actually lingers and supplements positive changes in the brain, leading to lower incidences of anxiety and stress. Statistically, valerian has been successful in lowering stress in patients with Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Safety of Valerian
Valerian has been found to have little to no adverse side-effects for those who consume it. While this is so, it is best to keep in mind that it may do something if it mixes with other substances.
As a sedative, it is not to be used with other sedatives and anti-depressants. For those who pay closer attention to rock stars who end up becoming train wrecks, a cocktail of alcohol, barbiturates, prescription anti-depressants, and other sedatives can cause serious problems. Of course, herbalists who really know what they’re doing will give you mixtures of herbs with similar properties along with valerian, which is okay.
If you don’t want any accidents or mishaps, taking any sort of sedatives before driving or operating heavy machinery should be avoided. Since it may cause stomach problems, headaches, restlessness, and even over stimulation for some individuals, it is best to stay on the safe side and keep away from valerian before these activities.
Valerian is one of the oldest herbal remedies in all of human history. A non-addictive and widely available herb that has no dangerous side effects and is known for its safety, valerian offers no reasons to not try it. If you are suffering from anxiety, put that Valium pill down and try some valerian. You’ll be glad that you did.
