Valerian is a perennial plant from the Valerianaceae family, also known as catnip. Its name comes from the Latin "valere," which means "to be well."
Its unpleasant odor is also characteristic of its natural purity. The active part of this plant is the root, which contains essential oils (monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and, of greater physiological importance, sesquiterpene acids, among which we find valerenic acid). It also contains other substances, such as GABA, glutamine, arginine, and some alkaloids.
Properties
Traditionally, valerian has been used as:
Sedative and sleep-inducing.
Spasmolytic and muscle relaxant action: thanks to the valerenic acid it contains.
Sedative effect, linked to the inhibition of GABA catabolism.
Main indications
Tension, anxiety and irritability.
Moderate insomnia of nervous origin.
Gastrointestinal spasms of nervous origin.
Instructions for use
Take 1-2 capsules daily.
Precautions
It is advisable not to administer to children under 3 years of age.
It may decrease alertness after 1 or 2 hours, so driving immediately after taking it or for prolonged periods of time is not recommended.
It is recommended not to take valerian just before bedtime, as it can cause restless sleep.
