Valerian root has been touted by many to be the wonder herb. Some call it natural valium. The use of this herb is not new. valerian root was used in ancient Rome and Greece. Historically, valerian root was used to treat nervousness, anxiety, insomnia, and heart palpitations. Currently, this herb is being recommended by some for many other conditions as well, such as obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, gastrointestinal problems, and a handful of other disorders. Is valerian root a wonder herb? Valerian root, does have sedative qualities, which have been shown to be beneficial to many people. But like any herb or drug there are limitations to what the herb can do.
How does valerian root work? Valerian root has high levels of gaba. High levels of gaba in the brain cause sedative affects. Valerian root also contains valernic acid. Valernic acid inhibits an enzyme in the brain that destroys gaba. So, valerian root works two fold, by increasing gaba levels in the brain and inhibiting an enzyme that destroys gaba.
Are the sedative properties of valerian root equal to that of valium? All herbs and drugs effect each person differently. Valerian root seems to be more effective to some people than others. Valerian root does have a sedative effect. It is likely that the effect is similar to a low dose of valium. The benefits to valerian root though are two-fold. Valerian root is not addictive like valium and therefore a person does not build a tolerance to it and doses do not have to be increased over time. Valerian root does not need a prescription.
Is valerian root successful in treating obsessive compulsive disorder and depression? Each person will have different results from valerian root. But generally valerian root is only affective for very mild cases of depression and anxiety. Although obsessive compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder, it is generally not a mild condition and valerian root does not appear to be a successful treatment for the condition.
Is valerian root good for insomnia and stress? Valerian root has been reported by many to be helpful in treating mild cases of insomnia and stress.
Is valerian root safe? There do not appear to many serious side-effects from taking valerian root. But there have been reported cases of suicidal behavior after taking valerian root. The medical community does not know if the suicidal behavior resulted from the herb, but it is a factor worth noting. In addition, no studies have been done on the safety of taking valerian root when pregnant, with drugs or alcohol, or under the age of three. With any herb or medication, it is a good idea to speak with a doctor before taking.
In conclusion, valerian root does have sedative properties and has been a wonder drug for some people. It just isn't the cure all that some people claim it to be.
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How does valerian root work? Valerian root has high levels of gaba. High levels of gaba in the brain cause sedative affects. Valerian root also contains valernic acid. Valernic acid inhibits an enzyme in the brain that destroys gaba. So, valerian root works two fold, by increasing gaba levels in the brain and inhibiting an enzyme that destroys gaba.
Are the sedative properties of valerian root equal to that of valium? All herbs and drugs effect each person differently. Valerian root seems to be more effective to some people than others. Valerian root does have a sedative effect. It is likely that the effect is similar to a low dose of valium. The benefits to valerian root though are two-fold. Valerian root is not addictive like valium and therefore a person does not build a tolerance to it and doses do not have to be increased over time. Valerian root does not need a prescription.
Is valerian root successful in treating obsessive compulsive disorder and depression? Each person will have different results from valerian root. But generally valerian root is only affective for very mild cases of depression and anxiety. Although obsessive compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder, it is generally not a mild condition and valerian root does not appear to be a successful treatment for the condition.
Is valerian root good for insomnia and stress? Valerian root has been reported by many to be helpful in treating mild cases of insomnia and stress.
Is valerian root safe? There do not appear to many serious side-effects from taking valerian root. But there have been reported cases of suicidal behavior after taking valerian root. The medical community does not know if the suicidal behavior resulted from the herb, but it is a factor worth noting. In addition, no studies have been done on the safety of taking valerian root when pregnant, with drugs or alcohol, or under the age of three. With any herb or medication, it is a good idea to speak with a doctor before taking.
In conclusion, valerian root does have sedative properties and has been a wonder drug for some people. It just isn't the cure all that some people claim it to be.
Discuss Add this link to... Bury
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