The Surprising Solution to Anxiety and Insomnia - A Simple Herb
Discover the surprising solution to anxiety and insomnia - a simple herb. Say goodbye to sleepless nights and anxious days with this natural remedy.
Do you struggle with anxiety and insomnia? There's a surprising solution that might help - a simple herb. Read on to discover more.
We have the perfect solution for you if you have trouble sleeping at night, which makes you feel frustrated and annoyed. The herb we will present below has been used to treat anxiety and insomnia for centuries.
The name of this miraculous remedy we are talking about is Valerian root. Its beneficial properties for relieving anxiety have even been proven scientifically. This herb is a common ingredient in various sleep-promoting tea blends.
Naturally enhances sleep
Many studies have confirmed the ability of valerian root to reduce the time you need to fall asleep and improve sleep quality without the side effects that most sleeping pills have.
One study by the Swedish Health Center of Foellinge has shown impressive results. More than 40% of the participants reported better sleep quality, and more than 80% claimed that they noticed overall improvement in their health without any side effects.
This herb is usually combined with other herbs, such as hops and lemon balm, to treat insomnia.
Another study published by Phytomedicine showed that children who took the valerian root and lemon balm combination slept much better than those who were given the placebo.
Valerian root is efficient because of the soothing effect, which is caused by increasing the GABA (inhibitory transmitter which has a relaxing impact on the body) in the brain.
An in vitro study has proven the ability of valerian root to release GABA in the nerve endings in the brain.
Soothe anxiety
Since valerian root boosts the levels of GABA in the brain, it also works as a treatment for anxiety. GABA is a chemical that treats anxiety by regulating the nerve cells' function.
Lower blood pressure
Besides soothing the mind and body, valerian root also helps reduce high blood pressure because of the ability to regulate stress and anxiety levels.
If you have high blood pressure, your risk of having strokes and heart attacks is much bigger, so it is crucial to take this health issue very seriously. You can significantly improve your overall health with the help of valerian root because it balances blood sugar levels.
Soothe menstrual cramps
You can naturally relieve the severity of menstrual cramps with valerian root because it has soothing and antispasmodic properties that reduce the muscle spasms causing the pain. During menstruation, the uterine muscles contract, which often causes unbearable pain that can be relieved with this herb.
Stress management
Since valerian root works as a sedative and improves sleep quality, it also helps to reduce stress levels significantly. Being constantly stressed can cause anxiety, but you can prevent this by naturally boosting GABA levels with the help of this herb.
Origins and chemical properties of valerian root
This herb originates from Europe and some parts of Asia but is now spread in North America. It belongs to the Valerianaceae family, and it has a sweet scent. The Latin name of the herb means "to be healthy, strong."
The valerian root contains three main compounds responsible for the relaxing and healing effects. It has been used since Ancient times as a remedy for insomnia.
How to use it
This herb is safe and can be easily found in stores or online. It can be bought as a supplement, tea, dry powder extract, essential oil, or liquid extract.
Note: Even though the herb smells awful, it does not taste that bad. It would be best to take the remedy for at least several weeks to start feeling the positive effects.
Most people start feeling changes about 2-3 weeks after constant use. The usual dosage for insomnia is three times a day, but be careful to take the last dose no later than 2 hours before bed.
The recommended doses of this herb depend on the form you are taking:
- Dry powdered extract: 250-600 mg
- Fluid extract: 1-2 ml (1/2 to 1 teaspoon)
- Tincture: 4-6 ml (1 to 11/2 teaspoon)
- Tea: 2-3 gr of dried root (1 teaspoon) in one cup of boiling water. Let steep for 5-10 minutes before consumption.
Consume 120-200mg 3-4 times daily to treat anxiety. For ultimate results, once you notice an improvement in sleep, continue using the remedy for another 2-6 weeks.
Potential side effects
Even though it is considered safe, some possible side effects include headaches, stomach problems, and dizziness. It can sometimes cause reverse reactions in treating anxiety and insomnia and even worsen the symptoms.
Most studies examining valerian root's effects on the fetus during pregnancy have shown no side effects. However, more studies are to be performed.
Most people using this herb have not reported any withdrawal symptoms, but some did.
Instead of completely stopping at once, you should gradually reduce the dose of valerian root, particularly if you have been taking it for an extended time.
Because it promotes sleep, valerian root should not be taken before any activity requiring alertness. Also, if you suffer from liver issues, never consume valerian root.
The following drugs should never be combined with valerian root:
- Anti-depressants
- Benzodiazepines
- Narcotics
- Alcohol
There are also some drugs whose effects can be blocked or altered by valerian roots, such as melatonin, St. John's wort, or kava.
Valerian root can also impede the effects of some prescription medications and may block or alter the effects of natural supplements like kava, melatonin, and St. John's wort.
Summary
Sleep disorders such as insomnia are very common and affect millions worldwide. If you are one of those people, try valerian root before you take sleeping pills.
It will improve your sleep quality and overall health without making you dizzy when you wake up.
Valerian root does not disrupt the chemical balance in the body, and it promotes sleep naturally.
To summarize, valerian root can be beneficial in the treatment of:
- Anxiety
- High blood pressure
- Mental Breakdown
- Menstrual cramps
- Tension
- Stress
Nature has given us just one remedy for various health issues. So, keep your health safe and avoid side effects from prescription pills by taking natural remedies such as valerian root.
Remember that valerian root takes two weeks of uninterrupted use to show results. But sometimes, it can even show positive effects after the first dose.
Disclaimer
All content on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this website and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always consult with your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.
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