Treatment for Insomnia - a Herbal Alternative
June 6th, 2009 | by admin | << insomnia treatment insomnia cure >>Valerian is a well known insomnia and relaxation remedy. In 2000 the journal Pharmacopsychiatry published the results of a study which reported the benefits obtained from the use of valerian. Valerian improved the sleep behavior and perceived quality of sleep in patients with mild insomnia after just 14 days use.
The aromatic roots of valeriana officinalis is used medicinally. The beneficial roots are collected in the fall and dried carefully. This preserves the active ingredients which includes volatile oils and valepotriates. These substances have a sedative effect on the nervous system and are used for treating stress, insomnia and anxiety.
Valerian grows up to 2 meters tall and produces clusters of tiny white or pink flowers. The flowers mature in the summer and are strongly scented. Give consideration to this plant in your garden design as it could be used in your garden for its flowers or scent.
Other benefits of using this herb:
- Mild Sedative: its sedative properties have been confirmed in a number of clinical trials.
- Digestion: valerian relaxes the digestive tract and helps to relieve gas, bloating and abdominal pain.
- IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): valerian is an ideal remedy for IBS when there is an associated stress or nervous condition due to its digestive benefits and stress reducing qualities.
- Premenstrual Syndrome: The stress of PMS is greatly reduced when using this herb. Pain period and associated muscle tension can also be soothed by valerian.
The herb known in ancient Greece and Rome and used historically to relieve a number of disorders like insomnia, respiratory congestion, wounds and pain. It was also used as a protection against the plague.
Side Effects and Concerns
Valerian should not be taken while using other medications for insomnia or anxiety. Taking it with other drugs that cause drowsiness could result in excessive sleepiness or drowsiness. It may also be aggrevated if used with herbs that may have sedative effects, such as hops, catnip and kava.
As valerian is broken down in the liver it could interfere with the effectiveness of other medications that are broken down by the same liver enzymes. It is thus important to consult your medical practitioner before using this herb in any form. Its use should also be avoided if you have any form of liver disease.
Documented side effects of valerian use include headache, dizziness, itchiness, diarrea, drowsiness, dry mouth and vivid dreams.
Treatment for insomnia can also be done using other alternative medicines, more of these alternatives are can be viewed at Alternative Healing Blog. Traveling Nurse Guide provides additional information on healthcare related issues and careers.
