Valerian has been used for centuries to treat anxiety disorders, nervousness and insomnia. It is classified by the United States Food and Drug Administration as "Generally Recognized As Safe" or GRAS, and is also used as a mild sedative and diuretic. The root of the plant is used, there is some discrepancy of opinion over whether dried or fresh foot is more beneficial.
Valerian
Valerian, also known as amantilla, setwall, tobacco root and capon's tail, is a flowering plant native to South Africa, Asia and parts of Europe. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 4 feet tall. The tiny flowers bloom each year and may be red, white or yellow. They have a distinctive, bitter odor rather like sour milk. The root of the plant is used in herbal medicine.
Function
Although scientists are not certain how valerian works, they think it may be due to the fact that it increases the amount of gamma aminobutyric acid. This is a chemical in the brain that function s as a regulator of nerve cells to calm anxiety and nervousness. It has the same effect as drugs known as benzodiazepines such as Valium and Xanax, though its effect may be somewhat weaker.
Dried vs. Fresh root
The primary constituent of valerian root is yellow oil that is found in quantities of 0.5 to 2 percent in the dried root. His complex volatile oil is composed of borneol, pinene, valerianic, formic and acetic acids. The process of drying releases the oil. The root also contains two alkaloids known as valerianine and chatarine which are currently being researched. In 1907, French chemist Chevalier discovered an active resin, glucoside and alkaloid in the fresh root, which led him to the conclusion that the fresh herb has a greater medicinal value than the dried rhizome.
Warnings
It is recommended by the Herbal Supplement Resource, that you avoid valerian root if you are operating heavy machinery, driving, have liver disease, are pregnant or breast feeding or if you are taking other medications for anxiety, nervousness or insomnia. If you take valerian for a long period of time, you may experience some withdrawal after stopping.
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