Very well known to beat stress and deal with sleep disorders, Valerian herb comes with many benefits. Its scientific name is Valeriana Wallichii and is native to Europe and certain parts of Asia. Our Ayurvedic expert, Dr. V. V. Prasad, MD, and Ph.D. in Ayurveda, Uttarakhand says, “Valerian is a high altitude plant, generally grown in the Himalayan region in India. It is its root that is usually used. Its roots have fatty acids and volatile oil, due to which it contains a very strong smell and a sweet-bitter taste.”
Here are some ways in which it is beneficial, as suggested by Dr. Prasad:
Nervous Disorders
It reduces the higher stimulation of the nerves. If there is a feeling of agitation, stress, etc. it helps relieve it. Basically this drug is anxiolytic, which means it reduces anxiety. Therefore, it can also be used in conditions where a person is not able to sleep.
Heart
Due to nervous disorders, many other organs can be affected like our heart. Initially, the palpitation is more, and later on, the action of the heart muscle is reduced. In such conditions also, the valerian root is used.
Antioxidative
Usually, the waste products in the body are excreted in the form of urine, feces, etc.. However, sometimes toxins are left behind and accumulate in the body, causing certain chronic diseases. Therefore, valerian can be helpful.
Other conditions in which it is helpful
- Paralysis
- Parkinsons
- Diabetes
- Hysteria
- Epilepsy
- Psychic disorders
- Eye disorders
- Menstrual Problems, etc.
Dosage
- It is strongly recommended that one must consult a doctor before taking the drug for any health conditions. Take the dosage only as prescribed.
- Dr. Prasad says that the dosage in the powder form ranges from 250mg-1g (in divided doses) or 10-20ml in the form of decoction.
- If the drug is taken in excess or for a longer duration, it can cause depression, slowness of the heart, vomiting, headaches, etc.
- It is not prescribed individually as a single drug but is one of the drugs included in several formulations.
Therefore, in the times where people are switching to alternative therapies, instead of chemically formulated drugs, such herbs stand helpful, with no or very few side effects. Hence, today when many people are suffering from stress, anxiety, and sleeping disorders due to the fast-paced, competitive, and uncertain life, valerian herb can be very helpful.
