5 Medicinal Uses Of Valerian That You Should Know

Common valerian, whose scientific name is Valeriana officinalis , is a perennial herbaceous native to Europe and Asia that, due to its medicinal applications, has become popular throughout the world.

It grows in forests and humid areas, it can measure up to two meters and has a straight stem, serrated leaves and reddish or white flowers.

For centuries it has been valued for its sedative and anxiolytic properties, which are obtained from its rhizomes, roots and stolons.

These have been used in the pharmaceutical industry for the manufacture of various drugs, although they are also often used in their natural state.

Although it is often distinguished as a remedy for nerves and anxiety, it has other healing uses that are worth knowing.

In the following space we want to share in detail the 5 best ones so that you do not hesitate to prepare them when you need their effects.

1. Remedy to combat insomnia

The sedative properties of valerian are useful to relax the body and mind in case of sleep disorders.

The consumption of its infusion, before sleeping, is a natural solution to achieve a restful and uninterrupted sleep.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of valerian root (5 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml)

Preparation

• Bring a cup of water to a boil and leave it until it reaches a boiling point.
• When it’s done, add the valerian root and cover.
• Let it sit for 10 minutes and strain it.

How to use

• Take a cup of infusion, 20 or 30 minutes before going to bed.

2. Remedy to quit smoking

The anxiolytic qualities of valerian are effective against withdrawal symptoms that usually occur when quitting smoking.

This natural supplement reduces cravings for cigarettes and, incidentally, acts positively on the nervous system.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of water (250 ml)
• ½ tablespoon of valerian (5 g)
• ½ tablespoon of chamomile (5 g)
• 1 tablespoon of honey (25 g)

Preparation

• Bring a cup of water to a boil and, when it’s hot, add the valerian and chamomile.
• Leave the drink on low heat for 2 minutes and remove it.
• Wait for it to rest for 10 more minutes and, after this time, strain it and sweeten it with honey.

How to use

• Have a cup of valerian drink when you feel the urge to smoke.
• If you consider it necessary, take it up to 2 times a day.
• Keep in mind that you should not consume it in excess, as it can cause drowsiness.

3. Remedy to combat menstrual cramps

Valerian has antispasmodic and analgesic properties that can help reduce muscle contractions in menstrual cramps.

Both its infusion and its use in compresses help to improve circulation in the affected area, leaving a pleasant feeling of relief.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of water (500 ml)
• ½ teaspoon of valerian (2 g)
• ½ teaspoon of orange leaves (2 g)
• ½ teaspoon of yarrow (2 g)

Preparation

• Bring the cups of water to a boil and, when they come to a boil, add the plants.
• Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes and strain it.

How to use

• Drink a cup of infusion when you feel menstrual spasms.
• Repeat its consumption 2 times a day
• Optionally, dip a washcloth in the hot drink and apply it to your lower abdomen.

4. Remedy for anxiety and stress

The anxiolytic and sedative actives of valerian can be used as a remedy against anxiety and stress attacks.

Although tea helps to relax the nervous system, it is also convenient to take advantage of it in a bath.

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons of valerian (60 g)
• 5 cups of water (1250 ml)

Preparation

• Heat the water to a boil and add the tablespoons of valerian.
• Let them sit for 10 minutes to release their extracts.
• Before it cools, add the drink to the water in the tub.

How to use

• Take a 15-20 minute bath to relax.

5. Remedy for headaches

This wonderful plant is a natural analgesic that helps us reduce the tension and pain of common and severe headaches.

For this purpose, you can ingest a cup of infusion, or use the hot drink to make compresses.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of valerian (5 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml)
• 2 tablespoons of honey (50 g)

Preparation

• Add the valerian to a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 10 minutes.

• Strain the drink and sweeten it with a couple of tablespoons of honey.

How to use

• Swallow the remedy at the first sign of pain.
• If you prefer to use it externally, do not add honey and apply it on the forehead with the help of a cloth.

Contraindications

• As a natural remedy, valerian has mild side effects compared to some medications.
• However, it is important to mention that it can cause drowsiness and gastrointestinal discomfort.
• It should not be ingested while pregnant or breastfeeding.
• It should not be mixed with alcoholic beverages.
• After ingestion, activities such as driving should be avoided.
• If you are taking drugs, it is important to consult your doctor before consumption.