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Valerian

This herbaceous perennial, which occurs in a variety of small species, reaches a height of 50 to 150 cm. The round, hollow stem is usually only branched in the upper half and bears light pink to white flowers arranged in panicle-like umbels. The leaves are pinnately lobed or pinnate. The fresh flowers have a pleasant scent; the characteristic valerian smell only develops when they dry. Cats and rats are very attracted to it. The underground parts of the plant are used medicinally.

Application

  • sleep disorders
  • nervous restlessness
  • anxiety and tension
  • Stomach complaints caused by nervousness

Valerian root contains essential oil, iridoids(valepotriates and their degradation products), phenolic carboxylic acids (e.g. hesperidic acid) and small amounts of lignans in various compositions depending on the species, age, origin and growth conditions of the plant. The calming and sleep-inducing effects are undisputed, which are probably the result of the interaction of the individual ingredients and their degradation products formed during preparation. Studies have observed a shortening of the time it takes to fall asleep, a reduction in the frequency of nocturnal awakenings and, in particular, an improvement in the quality of sleep. Synergistic effects on central nervous neurotransmitter systems as well as GABA, serotonin and adenosine receptors are being discussed. The effect on nervous stomach complaints has not been proven. Valepotriates and have a high reactivity due to their epoxide structure. They are therefore considered potentially carcinogenic. However, these compounds are practically no longer present in aqueous or aqueous-alcoholic extracts, so that a hazard can be ruled out. Valepotriate-rich valerian extracts were obtained from Mexican (V. edulis) or Indian valerian (V. walichii) and are no longer commonly used in Germany. This also applies to preparations made from kesso root, the root of Japanese valerian (V. jatamansi).

Internal use

Valerian root is taken throughout the day for nervous restlessness and half an hour to two hours in the evening before going to bed for sleep disorders. An impairment of the ability to react is possible within the first few hours after ingestion.

Dosage

Tea:

Pour approx. 150 ml of boiling water over 1 teaspoon (2 - 3 g) of valerian root and strain after 10 to 15 minutes. Drink a cup 1 - 3 times a day and before going to bed. Tincture: 1 to 3 ml one to several times a day Extracts: For sleep disorders 400 to 900 mg extract half an hour to 2 hours before going to bed. For restlessness 300 to 450 mg throughout the day.

References

  1. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1982 Jul;17(1):65-71