Valerian Root – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

Saturday, July 29, 2017 by Earl Garcia

Valerian root is an herbal medicine that is known to address a host of nervous system conditions, mainly sleep problems and anxiety. According to an article posted on the Natural Alternative Remedy website, the use of valerian roots dates back to the 2nd century.

List of known nutrients

An entry posted on Herbpathy.com enumerates the many important nutrients found in valerian. These include:

Alkaloids
Azulene
Beta Ionone
Beta-caryophyllene
Beta-carotene
Beta-sitosterol
Borneol
Bornyl acetate
Calcium
Caffeic acid
Chlorogenic acid
Choline
Chromium
Iridoids
Iron
Kaempferol
Limonene
Magnesium
Manganese
Monoterpene
Niacin
P. Courmaric acid
Phosphorus
Phytochemicals
Potassium
Quercetin
Selenium
Sesquiterpenes
Tannins
Valeric acid
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B3
Vitamin C
Zinc

Medicinal uses for valerian root

Valerian root has been widely used as a remedy to sleep disorders. According to an article posted on the Get Holistic Health website, valerian root helps alleviate insomnia and other sleep disorders by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid, an essential compound that regulates the nerve cells. The calming effects of valerian root is also touted to address anxiety. In fact, a 2006 study revealed that incorporating the superfood into lemon balm provides an anxiolytic effect.

The superfood is also known to ease other nervous system disorders. It is found to contain sedative properties that help reduce the frequency of epileptic attacks. Likewise, the plant is known to work with the brain to mitigate triggers that cause attention deficit hyperactivity, bipolar, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Aside from this, valerian root is touted to relieve stress, migraines, and headaches as well as tremors and vertigo. The superfood is also found to improve memory and problem-solving skills in both adults and children.

In addition, valerian root is notably effective in treating various heart conditions and boosting the body’s overall cardiovascular profile. The superfood is known to fortify the blood vessels and improve its elasticity. Valerian root is also found to regulate the body’s blood pressure levels. Likewise, the plant’s soothing effects help relieve palpitations.

Moreover, valerian root is a potent food fare against a host of muscular discomforts. The superfood is known to relax the muscles and ease spasms. It is also remarkably effective in treating shin splints. Aside from these, it is also touted to alleviate restless leg syndrome and is also shown to address a plethora of bone and joint conditions such as knee and lower back pain.

Valerian root contains antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and soothing effects that help relieve menstrual cramps and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The superfood also supports the endocrine system. It is found that valerian root may actually address hyperthyroidism. Aside from this, it is used as a traditional remedy to many digestive issues.

Body systems supported by valerian root

Valerian root is particularly helpful in relieving various mental and behavioral conditions and promoting the nervous system’s overall health. Likewise, valerian root is notably effective in addressing diseases of the cardiovascular, muscular, and skeletal systems. In addition, the superfood is touted for its positive impact on the endocrine and digestive systems. Moreover, valerian root supports the female reproductive system.

Ways to use valerian root

Valerian roots can be brewed and infused into teas. An article published on the Durable Health website features complete instructions in brewing valerian roots.