Valerian Root Uses

Valerian plant has sweetly scented white or pink flowers. Although native to Europe and some parts of Asia, it has now also been introduced in North America. The flowers of the valerian plant bloom from June to September in the northern hemisphere. The larvae of some species of butterfly and moths consume valerian as food. Valerian plant has many names, among them are all-heal, garden heliotrope, garden valerian. The word valerian in Latin means "to be strong or healthy". Now lets see what are the various valerian root uses.

Medicinal Valerian Root Uses
Valerian root is distilled to make oils and ointments or is dried to use in tea or capsules. It is available in the form of capsules, tablets, tinctures and liquid extracts. Valerian roots were used in ancient Greece to treat a variety of medical disorders, like liver problems, digestive ailments, insomnia, urinary tract disorders and nausea. It has been used to treat problems with the nervous system as well. Traditionally it has also been used to treat epilepsy and hysteria and is also used as a diuretic.

Research has shown that valerian root helps in relaxing the central nervous system. It induces peaceful sleep without any grogginess in the morning. It is safe if taken in small quantities with alcohol, but it is not recommended. Valerian is also said to reduce stress and exhaustion. It is beneficial to treat conditions like depression, irritability, hysteria, anxiety, fear, panic and delusions, as it is a mild tranquilizer. If a person suffers from stomach cramps or indigestion due to nervousness, valerian roots can prove to be beneficial. Among many other benefits of valerian roots, it has proven to be useful to treat behavioral problems in adults as well as children. It was especially found to be beneficial to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bedwetting and anxiety headaches. In some cases, valerian root was also used to treat nail biting and thumb sucking in children. It has been seen that it also has a stabilizing effect on blood pressure. In rare cases it has also been used to treat the convulsions from seizures. Migraine symptoms can also be treated with valerian roots.

Along with the above mentioned valerian root benefits, it is also helpful in alleviating digestive system problems, including irritable bowel syndrome. Gas, diarrhea and pain related to ulcers can be treated with valerian roots. Consumption of valerian root also helps in relieving stomach cramps. Asthma patients also have benefited from it as valerian root reduces the discomfort caused by asthma attack.

Other Valerian Root Uses
Valerian root is a cat attractant, like catnip. This is due to an active compound called actinidine. According to anecdotes, valerian root is also attractive to rats, therefore it has also been used in 'eat baits'. In some versions of the 'Pied Piper of Hamelin', it is said that he used valerian on himself as well as his pipes to attract the rats.

There are some side effects of this wonder plant though. Valerian root side effects were seen in pregnant and lactating women. Young children should also not be given valerian root. Since valerian is broken down in the liver, in rare cases, it can cause liver damage. Hence, it is always recommended to speak to your health care professional before using the valerian root, although valerian root uses may be varied. If you are on some drugs, it is always advisable to speak to your health care professional to know about the reactions of valerian root with them. I would quickly like to mention, valerian root should not be used everyday. There are many brands that manufacture valerian roots products. Therefore, always consult your pharmacist, to check for any contents that can have side effects.