(Valeriana officinalis)
Description
Valerian is a perennial plant used medicinally for its sedative effects, particularly for insomnia and anxiety. The root is the active part of the plant.
Health Benefits
- Improved sleep: Clinical studies confirm valerian’s ability to improve sleep quality and reduce the time required to fall asleep.
- Anxiety relief: Helps reduce anxiety, though not as strongly as its effects on sleep.
Available Forms
- Dried root, capsules, tablets, tinctures, fluid extracts, and dry powdered extracts: Forms standardized for valerenic acid are recommended.
Dosage
For sleep, 30-45 minutes before bedtime:
- Dried root (tea): 2-3 grams.
- Tincture (1:5): 4-6 ml.
- Fluid extract (1:1): 1-2 ml.
- Valerian extract (0.8% valerenic acid): 150-300 mg.