Stress, a negative spiral of thoughts, sadness. Whatever plagues you during the day, you carry into the night. Some people just can't truly switch off. Our sleep quality suffers as a result. A good solution, which is also natural, is: valerian. Here is an overview of the most important information about this natural sleep aid.
Valerian: V for Valium-like relief (calming)
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is considered a mild sleep aid in naturopathy. This plant has proven effective for inner restlessness and tension. The reason: its natural active ingredients influence certain neurotransmitters in the brain. According to sleep experts, valerian acts on the so-called GABA system, a brain neurotransmitter that has a sleep-inducing, relaxing, and anti-anxiety effect on the brain.
Well tolerated
It is considered a well-tolerated, mild sedative recommended for mild to moderate sleep-onset insomnia and for better sleep continuity. Valerian is well tolerated and non-addictive. Important: Valerian does not suppress the vital REM phase of sleep during the night. This is not the case with chemical sleep aids. The REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep phase plays a crucial role in the regeneration of the nervous system and the recovery of the brain. This means you won't feel groggy the next morning and can start your day feeling refreshed.
Valerian: A traditional plant
As a medicinal plant, valerian is a classic in naturopathy. This healing plant is regarded as a natural remedy for states of restlessness and sleep disorders. It grows in many parts of Europe as well as in temperate zones of Asia. Its ingredients include valepotriates, valtrate, and valtrinal.
Products with valerian
The calming medicinal herb is available in various forms: as valerian oil for relaxing full baths, as valerian tea in combination with other herbal agents such as hops and lemon balm, as calming drops, and as an herbal dry extract from the valerian root.
Tip: Valerian works even better in combination with other herbal agents such as hops. You should take valerian for at least 14 days for sleep disorders to notice an effect.
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