Though the root gets all the attention, valerian is actually a flowering plant that boasts pretty, scented flowers during some parts of the year. In fact, the flowers of the plant had such a pleasing scent that their extracts once served as perfume in past centuries. Today valerian is one of the most well known herbal medicinals around and is a popular component of supplements and commercially prepared teas. This is not surprising since valerian root tea benefits have been explored by people as far back as ancient Greece, where the root’s numerous effects were so profound, they made their way into ancient literature.
Unlike many other plants, it’s important to not use valerian as a part of herbal tea recipes that includes other herbs, spices and more without speaking to a health care provider or herbalist. Some other herbs may interact with valerian or greatly intensify its sedative effects. A valerian root tea recipe that excludes other ingredients is ideal, and includes one teaspoon of valerian root and two cups of water. The water should be boiled and added to the root and then steeped for just about three minutes before straining and enjoying. Because of the herb’s known qualities, valerian root tea benefits are best utilized near bedtime, but helping promote peaceful slumber is just one of the ten benefits the plant is known for.
1. Insomnia
The way in which valerian acts as a sedative is a rather complicated process, however it’s believed that chemical compounds called valerenic acids along with sesquiterpenoids are the constituents that affects the GABA neurotransmitter system of the body. This reaction is likely what is behind the herb’s use as a proven sleep aid, a function it’s still well known for today.
2. Anxiety
For some people that prefer to avoid the side effects associated with some medications, valerian root tea benefits may includes countering the symptoms of anxiety. The action of the root has been compared to medications called benzodiazepines, and may be particularly useful in some conditions that are characterized by anxiety.
3. Nervous Asthma
The anxiety reducing benefits of valerian that come from the valerenic acids found in the root may be useful in persons who have a type of asthma that is brought on or exacerbated by stress.
4. Hypochondria
This psychological condition relates to a fear and paranoia of illness. It’s been suggested that along with other conditions where anxiety is the underlying cause, valerian root tea benefits may provide some symptom relief.
5. Menstrual Symptoms
Valerian works because it affects the central nervous system, and these same effects may also help relieve muscle spasms and pain. It’s likely this action that has led to the herb’s use in helping reduce the recurrence and severity of cramping of the uterus, and it’s used regularly in Europe for this purpose.
6. Migraines
There are few studies relating to valerian root tea benefits on migraines, but based on how the over one hundred chemicals found in the plant’s volatile oils behave, it’s a logical association to make. Providing a sedative effect to the nervous system and reducing anxiety may both have positive implications for migraine sufferers.
7. Drug Withdrawal
Valerian may be a very useful tool in people who are coming off of certain drugs, such as tranquilizers. By providing reduced intensity but mildly similar effects, valerian root tea benefits may encourage a safer and less stressful withdrawal from certain types of prescription and illicit drugs.
8. Muscle Tension
For many, muscle tension and pain comes with prescription medications called “muscle relaxers.” But, many find that they induce too much drowsiness or come with other unwanted side effects. Valerian is a popular herb for this use and is thought to help relax tense and tired muscles and reduce pain.
9. Depression
There are not many studies that exist regarding the use of valerian tea to help reduce the symptoms of depression. However specifically in cases where depression is accompanied by anxiety, the herb may be especially effective.
10. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
It may seem unusual that an herb associated with bringing about sleep is used to treat a condition characterized by fatigue. However, valerian root tea benefits are more related to sedating the nervous system and bringing about calm and relieving tension. These positive effects may have bonuses for chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers, although more evidence and research will be required to substantiate these notions.
