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What is valerian?
Valerian, also known by the scientific name Valeriana officinalis, is an ancient medicinal plant originally native to Europe and Asia. Today it is cultivated and valued worldwide, especially for its calming properties. The plant is easily recognized by its small, pinkish-white flowers, but the real power lies in the root. The root contains valuable ingredients such as valerenic acids, essential oils and alkaloids, which are responsible for its medicinal effects. Valerian was already known as a remedy in ancient times and was used to alleviate sleep problems, nervousness and stress.
In modern herbal medicine, valerian has established itself as a versatile remedy. It is available in various forms, such as drops, tablets, capsules and tea. Each form offers different benefits and can be used according to need and preference.
What you should know
Valerian effect
The calming effect of valerian is scientifically well documented and is primarily based on the active ingredients in the root. These ingredients act on the central nervous system and promote relaxation by increasing the activity of the GABA receptors in the brain. These receptors are responsible for inhibiting nerve signals and play an important role in coping with stress. Valerian helps to shorten the time it takes to fall asleep and improve the quality of sleep without causing tiredness or drowsiness the next day, as is often the case with synthetic sleep aids.
Valerian has been shown to be particularly helpful in the following areas:
-Sleep disorders: Promotes falling asleep and improves deep sleep phases.
-Stress and nervousness: Alleviates inner restlessness and helps you stay calm.
Thanks to its calming effect, valerian is a natural option for people who suffer from stress or mild anxiety and are looking for a gentle, herbal alternative.
Valerian drops: use and benefits
Although ashwagandha is generally considered to be well tolerated, certain people may experience mild side effects. These often include gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea, diarrhea or a slightly uncomfortable feeling in the stomach. In some cases, ashwagandha can also lead to slight drowsiness, especially when taken in higher doses. Therefore, when taking ashwagandha, you should always pay attention to the dosage and approach it slowly in order to check your individual tolerance. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are generally advised not to take ashwagandha, as the active ingredients could also be transferred to the unborn child or infant. If you are unsure or are taking other medication, it is advisable to consult a doctor beforehand.
Valerian tablets: advantages and disadvantages
Valerian tablets are one of the most common forms in which valerian is offered as a dietary supplement. They are particularly popular as they allow for precise dosing and are easy to take. Valerian tablets usually contain an extract of valerian root, which is offered either on its own or in combination with other calming plants such as lemon balm or hops. A great advantage of the tablets is their convenient use, especially for people who do not like the intense taste of valerian drops or tea.
Advantages of valerian tablets:
-Easy to take: no unpleasant taste, easy to swallow.
-Exact dosage: Allows precise control of the amount taken.
-Long shelf life: In contrast to liquid extracts, tablets have a longer shelf life.
However, there are also disadvantages, as some people can react sensitively to the ingredients. In rare cases, mild side effects such as gastrointestinal complaints can occur.
Valerian side effects: What to watch out for
Although valerian is generally considered safe, side effects can occur in some cases, especially if high doses are taken over a long period of time. Typical side effects include:
-Tiredness: in very sensitive individuals, valerian can cause mild tiredness the next morning.
-Gastrointestinal complaints: In rare cases, nausea or abdominal pain may occur.
-Interactions: If taken at the same time as sedatives or alcohol, the effect may be increased.
Follow the manufacturer's dosage instructions and consult a doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are already taking other medication.
FAQs
No, valerian is not considered addictive. In contrast to synthetic sedatives such as benzodiazepines, valerian is not addictive. Nevertheless, valerian should not be taken over a longer period of time without consulting a doctor, as the body could become accustomed to the sedative effect.
The effect of valerian usually sets in within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion, depending on the dosage form. Valerian drops often take effect more quickly, as the liquid extract is absorbed more quickly by the body. However, if taken regularly, it can take a few days to weeks for the full effect to be felt, especially in the treatment of chronic sleep disorders.
Valerian and melatonin are two different substances that are both used to support sleep, but have different effects. Valerian is a herbal sedative that acts on the central nervous system and promotes relaxation. Melatonin, on the other hand, is a hormone produced naturally in the body that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. It is often used as a sleep aid when natural melatonin levels are disturbed. Both can help to promote sleep, but in different ways.
Valerian can be used in older children from around 12 years of age to calm them down or if they have problems falling asleep, but always under medical supervision. Valerian is not generally recommended for younger children as there is still too little data on its safety and effectiveness. There are special, milder-dose preparations that have been developed for children, but their use should always be discussed with a pediatrician.
It is not advisable to consume valerian together with alcohol. Both substances have a sedative effect and can reinforce each other's effects. This can lead to severe tiredness, drowsiness and impaired responsiveness. Anyone taking valerian should therefore avoid alcohol, especially if a high dose is taken.