Valerian is one of the best known insomnia and relaxation remedies. In 2000 the journal Pharmacopsychiatry published the results of a study which reported the benefits obtained from the use of valerian. Valerian improved the sleep behavior and perceived quality of sleep in patients with mild insomnia after a short time of 14 days use.

The aromatic roots of valeriana officinalis is used medicinally. The roots are harvested in the autumn and dried carefully. This preserves the active ingredients which contain volatile oils and valepotriates. These substances have sedative properties and are used for treating stress, insomnia and anxiety.

Valerian grows up to 2 meters tall and produces clusters of tiny white or pink flowers. The flowers mature in the summer and are strongly scented. Give consideration to this plant in your garden design as it could be used in your garden for its flowers or scent.

Other benefits of using this herb:

• Mild Sedative: its sedative properties have been confirmed in a number of clinical trials.
• Digestive System: the herb relaxes the digestive tract helping to relieve gas, bloating and abdominal pain.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome: due to its digestive benefits and stress reducing qualities, valerian is an ideal remedy for IBS when there is a marked stress or nervous connection.
• Premenstrual Syndrome: The stress of PMS is greatly reduced when using this herb. Pain period and associated muscle tension can also be soothed by valerian.

Historically the herb has also been used in ancient Greece and Rome to relieve a number of disorders like insomnia, respiratory congestion, wounds and pain. It was also used as a protection against the plague.

Side Effects and Caution

Valerian should not be taken while using other medications for insomnia or anxiety. Taking it with other drugs that that cause drowsiness could affect aletness and concentration. It may also be aggrevated if used with herbs that may have sedative effects, such as hops, catnip and kava.

Valerian is broken down in the liver and it could potentially interfere with the effectiveness of other medications that are broken down by the same liver enzymes. For your own safety you must consult your medical practitioner before using this herb in any form. Its use should also be avoided if you have any form of liver disease.
Other side effects of valerian may include headache, dizziness, itchiness, upset stomach, drowsiness during the daytime, dry mouth and vivid dreams.

Treatment for insomnia can also be done using other alternative medicines, more of these alternatives are can be viewed at Alternative Healing Blog. Traveling Nurse Guide provides information on healthcare and careers in health care.