The Health Benefits of Valerian

Valerian is a perennial native to North America, Europe, and some parts of Asia. The rootstock portion of the plant harbors numerous active compounds that some herbalists believe to give this herb its various medicinal properties.

The effects of valerian can be either positive or negative. We shall first cover the health benefits of valerian before delving into the adverse side.

Health benefits of Valerian

Indeed, in some European countries, valerian is officially approved for just this function where some studies have shown it to greatly outperform a placebo.

Some experts point out that valerian is not addictive and will not engender a groggy next day feeling when taken as a sleeping aid, as some prescription drugs may do.

Another related health benefit of valerian is its purported ability to induce relaxation and calm, and, therefore, may be useful for treating stress and anxiety.

Other reported benefits of valerian include: pain relief, alleviating headaches, improving menstrual flow and cramps, and treating irritable bowel syndrome.

Valerian Side Effects

However, some possible (though not exhaustive) valerian side effects from high dosages include: nausea, headaches, dizziness, and grogginess, and heart palpitations.

It is also argued that very high dosages may impair the liver or central nervous system function.

It is advisable to not take valerian for more than two week stretches at a time.

Choose a valerian supplement made from standardized extracts that contain 0.8% valerenic (the active component).

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