Valeriana Officinalis

 

If you’ve experienced anxiety or have trouble sleeping, you’ve probably thought about trying an herbal remedy for relief. 

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is an herb native to Asia and Europe. It is now also grown in the US and other countries. 

This herb is known as a natural sedative. The herbal tea has a distinct strong smell. It reduces nervous stimulations and ceases convulsions and heart conditions with neural causes. It is used to treat stress, fatigue, excessive mental work, and chronic insomnia. The root is used against nausea, flatus, and intestinal parasites. Overuse of this herb, despite the sedative properties, may cause intoxication. High doses of this herbal medicine ensues side effects such as exhaustion, lightheadedness, eye pupil dilation, and hepatic intoxication. Its use with medicines for the central nervous system such as antidepressants, anxiolytics, sedatives, hypnotics, and antihistamines can be extremely dangerous. Taking Valeriana containing medicines can neutralize the therapeutic effects of warfarin (an anti-coagulant medicine). As a result, simultaneous use should be avoided. Taking Valeriana also interacts with iron salts. Therefore, considering a two-hour interval between taking iron salts and this herb is necessary.