Valerian Officinalis
Valerian, also known as All-Heal, Capon’s Tail and Garden Heliotrope, is one of the most widely used natural sedatives used today. It’s effects are gentle, yet quite pronounced, making it an ideal herbal remedy for disorders involving over stimulation of the nervous system such as anxiety and insomnia.
Valerian contains several pharmacologically active compounds, however the exact mechanism of its sedative properties is unknown. In ayurvedic medicine, the sedative qualities of valerian are explained by its cleansing effect on the vata where there is an unhealthy accumulation of vata in the nerve channels resulting in over stimulation.
Fortunately, however, its safety is well documented. Unlike many artificial sedatives, it is not habit forming and has very low toxicity.
Valerian is widely available in pill form as a dietary supplement and as a tea, both loose and in prepackaged tea bags. Many who use valerian find that a tea brewed with one to two teaspoons of loose, dry valerian per cup of hot (but not boiling, as some of the effective volatile oils may be driven off) water achieves optimum benefits. When taken in pill form as a dietary supplement, follow the instructions on the package, as formulas may vary.
For insomnia, consume the tea an hour before the bedtime to allow its peak effects to coincide with the time at which sleep is desired. Be careful not to be in a position in which driving may be necessary during that time as the pleasant sensation of sleepiness can be quite pronounced. A similar dose is effective against anxiety, but again driving or the operation of machinery should be avoided.
It should be noted that valerian is known for having a somewhat bitter aroma. This is normal, but if the smell is too strong for some users, it may be combined with the sweet smelling ginger, cinnamon or lavender to offset the aroma.
