Valerian root tea, often referred to as ‘nature’s Valium’ has been used for centuries as a natural sleep aid, and its effectiveness is supported by both tradition and scientific research. Let’s delve into why valerian root tea may be great for aiding in sleep!
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What is valerian root?
Valerian (valeriana officinalis) is a perennial herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Ancient Greeks and Romans recognised its calming properties and used it to alleviate various ailments, including sleep disturbances.
The root of the valerian plant is primarily used because it contains the highest concentration of the active compounds responsible for its calming and sedative effects. While valerian leaves and stems also contain some of these active compounds, the root is typically considered to be the most potent part of the plant for its medicinal purposes.
Valerian root tea, brewed from the dried roots of the plant, has been consumed for centuries to promote relaxation and restful sleep.
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What makes valerian root special for aiding in sleep?
The secret to valerian root’s effectiveness as a sleep aid lies in its active compounds.
According to Sleep Foundation, valerian root contains multiple chemical compounds such as valepotriates, valerenic and valeric acid and lignans that may impact the human brain and body, but researchers haven’t pinpointed the exact compounds that affect sleep. It’s likely a combination of these multiple compounds.
These compounds interact with the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system in the brain, which plays a crucial role in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
Sleep Foundation reflects on these benefits, stating that researchers have determined that valerian root can likely improve sleep and reduce anxiety in many people, with valerian root supplements helping people to fall asleep faster, improve their sleep quality, and spend more time in a ‘deep sleep stage.’
According to a report published by Mount Sinai, one study found that valerian was no more effective than placebo for 14 days, but by 28 days the plant significantly improved sleep for those who were ingesting it.
This suggests that you may need to take valerian for a few weeks before it begins to work. However, in another study, valerian immediately showed to be more effective than placebo for aiding in sleep.
Responses to valerian root supplements may depend on factors like an individual’s specific sleep issues, the dosage used, and the duration of use.
If you struggle with chronic insomnia however, it is advised that you seek medical treatment and avoid natural sleep aids including valerian root due to the lack of evidence for its effectiveness and safety. It is also advised before to check interactions with other medications you may be on, including aspirin, before ingesting valerian root tea.
If you’d like to give it a try, Faithful To Nature sells valerian root teabags for R204.00 per 100g.
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