What is Valerian Root?
Valerian root is a herb. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia but also grows in North America. Medicine is made from the root.
Taking valerian supplements every day could have a gentle lowering effect on blood pressure, a nutritionist revealed. It’s one of the best natural remedies for high blood pressure, added nutritionist Dr. Sarah Brewer.
“Valerian is one of the most effective natural remedies for high blood pressure, where this is linked to anxiety and stress”, she said on her website, MyLowerBloodPressure.com.
How does Valerian Root work?
“The roots of Valerian have been used as a sedative since medieval times to calm anxiety, reduce muscle tension and improve sleep quality. Valerian is recognized as one of the most calming herbs available.”
The herbal remedy works by counteracting the effects of stress, added Brewer.
Its sedative properties block certain enzymes in the brain, which subsequently allows the amount of the chemical gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) to rise. “By allowing GABA levels to rise, it damps down the over-stimulation that causes whirring thoughts during times of anxiety,” added the nutritionist.
“It produces a gentle lowering effect on the high blood pressure that often accompanies stress.”
Valerian could also be used to help with sleep disturbance, panic attacks, and nervous anxiety said, Brewer. But the remedy may cause mild drowsiness. Its effects may be enhanced when drinking excessive alcohol.
Valerian Root anti-anxiety effects
Drugs such as alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium) also work by increasing the amount of GABA in the brain. The valerenic acid and valerenol contained in valerian root extract act as anti-anxiety agents.
It’s pretty amazing that a herbal remedy like valerian root can have the same anti-anxiety effects of prescription drugs without all the serious side effects of psychotropic drugs. If you are taking other calming medications or antidepressants, do not take valerian at the same time.
Now that you know that valerian root can be so calming to the mind and body, it’s probably not surprising to hear it can also help lower blood pressure, improving heart health. The same active components that make valerian root so effective for stress and anxiety management can also help the body properly regulate its blood pressure.
High blood pressure is something you definitely want to avoid since it increases the chance of stroke and heart attack. Valerian root supplements can help naturally reduce blood pressure and keep it at a healthy level, which has a direct positive impact on your heart health.
Speak to a doctor before taking valerian supplements if you’re also taking other prescribed medication.
References and more information
- A COMPREHENSIVE PHARMACOGNOSTIC REPORT ON VALERIAN – Read here
- Valerian for Sleep: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis – Study Review
- Read about Valrian Root Oil
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