Valerian is a perennial herb which is native to North America. It is a flowering plant with clusters of red or white flowers which have a sweet and somewhat sickly scent. Throughout history valerian has been used as a mild sedative to relieve symptoms of insomnia, anxiety and for mild pain relief.
Instructions
Use Valerian
1. The medicinal part of the valerian plant is the . It is available in root form, usually ground, capsules, tablets, tinctures and fluid extracts. A study at Middlesex Hospital, Connecticut, showed that valerian reduces sleep latency, which means it cuts down the time it takes you to fall asleep.
2. Use valerian as a mild sedative to relieve symptoms of insomnia by taking 150-300mg in tablet form (standard active ingredient 0.8 percent valerenic acid), about 45 minutes before going to bed. It will help ease you gradually into sleep if it is used nightly over a period of 2-3 weeks.
3. To make a tea with valerian to produce the same sedative effects, add 2-3 grams of dried root to one cup of boiling water. Allow to steep for 10-15 minutes then strain and drink while warm. Honey may be added to enhance the flavor.
4. Use valerian tincture to promote restful sleep at night or to reduce feelings of anxiety during the daytime. The recommended dose of tincture (1:5) is 15-20 drops in a glass of water.
Tags: dried root, mild sedative, mild sedative relieve, relieve symptoms, relieve symptoms insomnia, sedative relieve, symptoms