I have mentioned the benefits of Valerian Root in a previous post along with other remedies that I use to treat Anxiety and Panic Attacks. I felt that because the Valerian Root has worked so well for me and is really easy to use that I would do a blog post specifically about how Valerian works for Anxiety.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor and cannot predict how someone will react to something even if it is natural there can still be side effects to herbs. Always check with your doctor or do your own research before trying any new supplements or herbs!

History: Valerian has been used as a medicinal herb since at least the time of ancient Greece and Rome. Hippocrates described its properties, and Galen later prescribed it as a remedy for insomnia.

What It Is: Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis/edulis) is a hardy perennial flowering plant with heads of sweetly scented pink or white flowers which bloom in the summer months. As anherbal tincture is often called “Nature’s Valium” for it’s powerful muscle relaxant and sedative properties. This herbal remedy has traditionally been used for insomnia, anxiety, pain, and muscle cramps and twitches. It works particularly well when you are emotionally stressed or in pain. It helps relieve all sorts of cramps, be they intestinal, menstrual, muscle cramps or even bronchial spasms. Because of valerian’s historical use as a sedative, anticonvulsant, migraine treatment and pain reliever, most basic science research has been directed at the interaction of valerian constituents with the GABA neurotransmitter receptor system. Valerian extracts appear to have some affinity for the GABA receptor, a class of receptors on which benzodiazepines are known to act. It is important to note that when taking benzodiazepines like Valium, Xanax, Ativan, etc taking Valerian in conjunction can heighten the effects of these drugs so use with caution!

How To Use: Typical dosages may vary from 2–10 grams per day. Valerian root is nontoxic, but may cause side effects, such as giddiness and disorientation, when taken in large excessive doses.

Different Forms: Valerian is available in capsule, tincture and bulk form and it is also packaged in tea bags

My Thoughts: I have been using Valerian Root for years to fight anxiety and panic attacks. Most recently I have been using it to help me while I am tampering off of a medication that I have been on for anxiety for over ten years now. It has been helping me immensely to get through the heightened anxiety I am having through this transition. It also helps tremendously with insomnia and stomach cramps/menstrual cramps. I have never experienced any negative reactions when taking this. I prefer to take it in tincture form as I find it’s the easiest and fastest to digest. I get the non-alcoholic version as I cannot have gluten and also it doesn’t burn if you want to put a few drops under your tongue instead of putting it in a glass of water and drinking it.

Notes: Valerian has a very strong scent. Many people are turned off from the scent of this. I personally like it. It has a very herbal scent to it. I enjoy the scent of herbs and when I know something is helpful for me I tend to crave the scent and taste of it regardless of how potent it is. If you are someone who is incredibly sensitive to smells, I would recommend taking this in capsule form as it is not as overpowering as the tincture.

Have you ever used Valerian Root for anxiety or any other health-related issues? If so what were your experiences?

xoxo,

Britanie

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*All of my reviews are based on my own personal experiences with the brand/products. I am never paid to give my honest opinions and will only recommend products that I love and use myself! All Photographs are (C) Britanie Faith unless stated otherwise.*