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Valerian
Description: Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has long been used to treat digestive, liver, and urinary tract problems. It was also used as a sedative and treatment for insomnia.
Valerian root contains several essential oils that appear responsible for its sedative effect.1 They also appear effective in treating stress and anxiety.2
One thing that makes valerian a better choice than prescription anxiety medications is that it does not impair a person’s ability to drive or operate heavy machinery.3 It also does not appear to be addictive.
Valerian is the most commonly used herb for severe insomnia. Acting as a sedative, it makes falling asleep easier and allows the body to go into deeper sleep cycles. Unlike many prescriptions sleep medications, however, valerian does not cause morning grogginess.4
Lemon Balm, when taken with Valerian, appears to be as effective as some prescription medications for treating insomnia.5
Passion Flower, in combination with Valerian, has been shown to alleviate many of the symptoms of anxiety.6

Useful in treatment of: anxiety, insomnia.

Recommended Dosage: 300 to 500 mg about 30 minutes before bedtime.

Contraindications: None.

References:

1Mennini T, Bernasconi P, et al. In vitro study on the interaction of extracts and pure compounds from Valeriana officinalis roots with GABA, benzodiazepine and barbiturate receptors. Fitoterapia 1993;64:291–300.
2Kohnen R, Oswald WD. The effects of valerian, propranolol and their combination on activation performance and mood of healthy volunteers under social stress conditions. Pharmacopsychiatry 1988;21:447–48.
3Albrecht M, Berger W, et al. Psychopharmaceuticals and safety in traffic. Zeits Allegmeinmed 1995;71:1215–21 [in German].
4Leathwood PD, Chauffard F, et al. Aqueous extract of valerian root (Valeriana officinalis L.) improves sleep quality in man. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 1982;17:65–71.
5Dressing H, Riemann D, et al. Insomnia: Are valerian/balm combination of equal value to benzodiazepine? Therapiewoche 1992; 42:726–36.
6Brown D. Valerian root: Non-addictive alternative for insomnia and anxiety. Quart Rev Nat Med 1994;Fall:221–24 [review].
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