Many Americans experience frequent mood fluctuations from the stresses of life. Valerian and kava are both used to naturally treat symptoms of certain psychological conditions such as anxiety and PMS. Consult your doctor before using or combining any herbs as treatments.
Valerian Benefits
Valerian has been used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and nervous disorders since the second century A.D. Valerian has a slightly sedating effect on you physically and mentally, which helps you fall into a restful sleep. It helps alleviate anxiety and other nervous disorders because it helps calm and relax your nerves while elevating your state of mind. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, researchers believe that valerian helps increase the production of gamma aminobutyric acid, or GABA, in your brain, which directly impacts your nerve cells and mood. An increase in this brain chemical can provide a sense of calm and tranquility. Valerian also helps ease cramps and acts as a diuretic, which can benefit women who retain fluids and suffer from cramps during menstruation.
Kava Benefits
Kava has been traditionally used as a celebratory drink in the Pacific Islands because it elevates your mood without the sedating effects that valerian supplies. However it does provide a sense of relaxation and contentment. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a review of seven scientific studies concluded that kava improves symptoms associated with anxiety. Kava has been shown to increase cognitive performance as well, which is substantial because most medications used to treat anxiety generally lower cognitive function.
Kava and Valerian Combined
Valerian has a potent odor and is often combined with other relaxing herbs, including kava, to mask the smell. However, kava it is not recommended to combine kava with valerian because cases of liver damage associated with kava have been reported. Although, the use of valerian and kava together is not less safe than using them separately, other calming herbs should be used with valerian before you use kava, such as passionflower, skullcap, hops and lemon balm. Talk with your doctor before trying any of these herbs, as they may interact with certain medications.
Warning
Kava alone may be harmful to your liver as well as in combination with other herbs and supplements. The Food and Drug Administration issued a warning in 2002 regarding the use of kava and liver damage. If your doctor advises you take kava, have your use closely monitored. Do not combine kava with other substances and medications that are hard on the liver such as alcohol, caffeine and certain pain relievers. Valerian is deemed safe, however, since it is a mild sedative, it is not safe to drive or operate heavy machinery during use. Any use of valerian should also be supervised by your health care practitioner.
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