To aid mental well-being, there are several natural substances. Whether through teas or herbal medicines, anxiety and stress can be alleviated. In addition, sleep can also be regulated.
Valerian is one of those substances, already well established in popular plant uses.
Know a little more about it and how to take it:
Contents
What is Valeriana officinalis ?
Popularly known only as valerian, the plant is scientifically called Valeriana officinalis and belongs to the Valerianaceae family, chemically characterized by an essential oil. In general, it is used as a tea to promote stress-reducing and calming effects.
In some places, it is still possible that the plant is known as amantila, wild bard, catnip, valaricana and badarina.
Due to the beneficial effects on mental health , the plant increasingly has options for herbal medicines. Capsule options can be found at pharmacies and health food stores.
Its use, both in the form of tea and capsules, is indicated for mild cases of anxiety, stress, mental fatigue and insomnia .
In general, it is safe and has few side effects – including headaches , stomach pains and contact allergy and dizziness .
One of the most advantageous points and pointed out by studies is that the herbal medicine does not present the famous and uncomfortable effects of drowsiness the day after use (those very common after taking sleep-inducing drugs). But it is worth remembering that this does not dispense with medical guidance for treatment.
What is it for?
Valerian is often used as a calming agent, providing relaxation, stress relief, anxiety and mental agitation.
It is also indicated to aid in a good night’s sleep, so that it helps in inducing sleep and maintaining it – that is, it can help both those who have difficulties in starting to sleep and those who wake up a lot during the night.
For anxiety
Valerian has a compound called sesquiterpenes, which can inhibit the enzyme responsible for the metabolism of GABA transaminase. This causes the GABA levels in the central nervous system (CNS) to be increased. With the increase in their rates, anxiolytic action is observed, reducing the symptoms and signs of anxiety.
For sleeping
Sleep disorders may be associated with evident symptoms of stress or not. Thus, it is possible that one of the first symptoms of anxiety is the change in sleep.
It can occur with the difficulty of falling asleep or also the difficulty of staying asleep at night. In addition, the conditions can occur together as well.
In studies, valerian has indicated that it can improve sleep quality, but the evidence is low. Thus, despite the popular use of valerian for sleeping, the evidence obtained by clinical trials still needs further evidence.
To lose weight
Valerian has no direct relationship with weight loss or weight reduction. What can occur is an indirect action, resulting from decreased anxiety.
This is because many people tend to eat more (or prefer more caloric foods) when they are experiencing moments of stress, anxiety or irritation.
So, improving mental balance can assist in maintaining a good diet, which consequently affects weight.
Valerian + passiflora: what is it for?
Passionflower, also known as passion fruit, is quite popular for its sedative and light calming effects. The combination of valerian and passionflower, usually found in capsules, is indicated to optimize the calming, sedative and anxiolytic effects .
It is possible to consume the combination either in tea (purchased ready-made or in bulk) or in capsules or tablets (herbal medicines).
Who can not take Valerian?
As the package insert indicates, people who are sensitive to Valeriana officinalis extract and the other components of the formula should not consume the product. If hypersensitivity is observed after starting treatment, it is recommended to discontinue use immediately.
Valerian, in general, is a very safe substance with few adverse effects – both in tea and herbal medicines.
However, before making use of it, it is always important to seek professional guidance, so that the contraindications are respected. In such cases, pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under 3 years of age should generally not use herbal medicine, except under medical advice.
It is worth mentioning that the package insert highlights the importance of notifying the doctor about the use of any medicated substance before starting treatment with the plant, as the herbal medicine can interact with other CNS depressant substances.
Studies have indicated that the use in conjunction with barbiturates, anesthetics or benzodiazepines and other CNS depressant drugs leads to an increased effect.
In addition, the use in conjunction with alcoholic beverages is contraindicated, as soon as the exacerbation of sedative effects can occur.
What are the side effects of valerian?
Despite being a substance with few adverse events, valerian can also trigger adverse reactions. In general, they include:
- Dizziness;
- Gastrointestinal indisposition;
- Contact allergies;
- Headache;
- Mydriasis (dilation of the pupil).
With long-term use, tiredness , insomnia and cardiac disorders can occur .
Who has gastritis can take Valerian?
The gastritis in itself does not prevent the use of valerian (whether in tea or in capsules). In fact, the drink (valerian tea) is widely mentioned as an aid in the treatment of gastric problems.
However, one of the adverse effects that can occur is stomach upset, including pain, nausea and burning.
So, it is important to observe the reactions of the organism in relation to the use. That is, not everyone will have stomach changes triggered by the medication, but it is possible that they will occur.
How to take valerian in pills?
The dose of valerian should always be indicated by health professionals, following the directions on the package insert. In general, the pills have dosages of 100mg and 200mg. In such cases, it is recommended to take 2 to 3 tablets or capsules, between 1 to 3 times a day.
To avoid overdosing and other risks associated with improper use, it is necessary to observe the dosage of each tablet or capsule.
In general, the recommendation is to take the medication at least 30 minutes before bed, so that the sedative effects are better used.
Price and where to buy
Valerian for making tea can be found in health food stores, sold in ready-made packages or in bulk.
In addition, there are versions in capsules, which are found in handling or traditional pharmacies.
Some options available are:
- Calmitane 100mg, box with 45 pills : R $ 32.44;
- Sonotabs 100mg, box with 20 pills : R $ 10.60;
- Valerance 160mg, box with 30 pills : R $ 72.70;
- Valeriane 50mg, box with 20 pills : R $ 52.10;
- Valerimed 50mg, box with 20 coated pills : R $ 5.04;
- Valessone 225.75mg, box with 20 pills : R $ 10.70;
- Valyanne 50mg, box with 20 coated pills : R $ 8.70;
- Recalm 215mg, box with 30 capsules : R $ 55.90.
Several herbal medicines can help in the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. Valerian is one of them and has been used for a long time to relieve symptoms of stress and to regulate sleep.
In Hickey solution you will find several information about medicines and substances for well-being.