10 Best Valerian Health Benefits - Sleep, Insomnia, Sciatica..

Valerian, the name itself suggests health. It has been derived from the Latin word Valarae which means “to be healthy”. It has been used therapeutically since time immemorial. It is the root which is used for medicine. The root is pressed to obtain juice or crushed to get a fine powder. Then the extract or powder is used in making capsules, tea, and tablets. It is such a popular supplement that it can be obtained in any drug or food supplement store. It has been used since 2nd century for the treatment of insomnia and restlessness but post 17th century its popularity reached newer heights when its other benefits were discovered. Let us discuss top 10 Valerian health benefits. Some of the common names of this plant are All-Heal, Great Wild Valerian, Cut-Heal, Hardy Heliotrope, Garden Heliotrope, Vandal Root, English Valerian.

1. Insomnia

For more than 18 centuries, valerian has been used as a sedative. Apart from it, this root can also be used for any sleep disorder. A cup of warm tea made of the root with honey can have a calming effect on your nerves to induce sleep.

2. Sciatica

Sciatica is acute pain in muscles. The volatile oil present in valerian roots can relax the tensed muscles. Infusion tea of valerian root can be used as a natural home remedy to be relieved from this extremely painful condition.

3. Epilepsy

When tested on different animals, studies have shown that valerian roots can successfully reduce the gap between two epileptic seizures. The sedative component present in this herb calms the nervous system. It is a natural antiepileptic treatment.

4. Hyperthyroidism

When you have a hyperactive thyroid gland, you are bound to suffer from certain discomforts like sleeplessness, fatigue, weakness etc. A regular dose valerian root extract increases the level of a useful chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid which is a neurotransmitter. This chemical is used by our nervous system to interact with the brain. In this way, the imbalance formed by hyperthyroidism is rectified.

5. Memory

The tincture made of valerian root can be used to boost memory and hone the problem-solving skill in children as well as adults.

6. Hand Tremors

Hand tremors are quite a normal symptom if you are suffering from hypertension, anxiety disorder or even insomnia. In such case, grind the root and mix it well with water. Let it steep for five minutes and then drink it.  It will help you manage tremors.

7. Palpitations

If rapid heartbeat and anxiousness have become a chronic problem for you, give valerian root a try. You will find it easy to restore your normal heartbeat and find yourself much calmer than before.

8.  Migraines and Headaches

To get rid of that nauseous feeling and throbbing pain, help yourself with a cup of valerian root tea with a spoon of honey and a dash of lemon. You will feel lighter and fresher.

9. Knee Pain

Knee pain is probably the commonest problem faced by senior citizens all over the world. Take a cup of valerian tea every day to relieve knee pain.

10. PMS and Menopause

Every month women undergo a lot of physical and mental trauma and it is heightened during the menopausal phase. Hot flashes, hormonal imbalance, and psychological issues make things really difficult for them. So, whether it is lower abdominal cramps during PMS or irritability during menopause, start with a cup of valerian tea. You will find it easy to deal with the phase.