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Plant
Remedies Valerian
Valerian valeriana
officinalis
Nature’s tranquillizer, valerian calms the
nerves without the side effects of orthodox drugs. It has a distinctive,
rather unpleasant smell. The chemical extract in valerian seems to depress
the nervous system, whilst the fresh plant is more sedating.
Valerian can allay pain and promote sleep and is
of special use and benefit to those suffering from nervous overstrain. The
root is good for nervous tension, especially anxiety and insomnia, the
root also strengthens the heart and can reduce high blood pressure. It
encourages healing in wounds and ulcers. It may also be used as an
expectorant, and can help tickling, nervous coughs.
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Constituents
Root : Volatile oil
(inc. isovalerianic acid, borneol), valepotriates, alkaloids, iridoids
Character
Chinese herbal
medicine regards it as pungent, slightly bitter, cool, dry
Action
It traditionally acts
as a tranquillizer, antispasmodic, expectorant, diuretic, it can reduce
blood pressure, carminative and is a mild pain reliever
Application
Maceration
Soak 2 tsp of the chopped, preferably fresh root for 8 –10 hours in a
cup of cold water. This is traditionally used as a sedating brew for
anxiety and insomnia.
Infusion This is traditionally used for
anxiety and insomnia.
Tincture This can be used as a sedative or
for insomnia. The dosage can vary considerably with individuals: up to 5ml
may be required, but in some people this can cause headaches, so start
with low doses of 1-2ml.
Cautions
Do not take more than
2-3 weeks without a break, as continual use or high doses may lead to
headaches and palpitations. Valerian enhances the action of sleep-inducing
drugs, so avoid if taking this type of medication.
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This page was last updated on 18 December 2006 21:25:05
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