Valerian root
Specialists prescribe a huge number of sedatives, based on the valerian extract. The beneficial properties of the plant have been known for a long time. You can avoid spending a lot of money on medicines but provide yourself with a safe and natural supplement.
Valerian belongs to the Honeysuckle family. This is a perennial herbaceous plant with a straight stem, large leaves, and fragrant white-pink flowering.
Composition of the valerian extract
The root is used for the preparation of medicinal decoctions, as well as for other medical purposes. It consists of the following:
- acids (formic, apple, and acetic acid)
- alkaloids
- micro- and macronutrients Valerian root is rich in calcium, magnesium, zinc, and manganese. It also contains a small amount of tin, potassium, copper, chromium, nickel.
- essential oils with a rich smell
Valerian: Effect on the body 
Valerian extract (useful components extracted from the chemical composition) works in several directions at once. It has the following benefits:
- sedative effect. This is a mandatory anti-stress substance to nourish the nervous system. It is useful for those who suffer from increased anxiety, emotional outbursts. It is recommended for women in the menopausal period, with PMS. It shall be used by athletes to reduce the level of excitability after physical exertion.
- It has a choleretic effect This is a mandatory vegetable component for people suffering from thick bile.
- It helps to relieve spasms, pains, unpleasant pulling sensations in the body. It removes unpleasant sensations after loads on the body, with increased mental labor.
- It provides the general tonic effect Judging by the reviews, valerian will help to restore the tone, feel a surge of vigor and energy.
- It helps to promote regulation of the activity of the cardiovascular system, with an increase in the elasticity of blood vessels, their throughput capacity.
Release form
Depending on the cause and purpose, it will be possible to divide the herbal supplement into:
valerian in tablets. For a convenient oral admission. The dosage is adjusted depending on the indications.
- valerian in soft-shell capsules. This is a more convenient format, where the shell melts only when it enters the intestine. This ensures that the healthy ingredients are fully absorbed.
- valerian liquid in the format of ounces for instillation. It can be mixed with water, juice, and other liquids.
- tinctures and extracts. Alcohol options are more popular among the older generation, for the prevention of diseases of the cardiovascular system.
- scented lotions for compresses. They are used in case of inflammatory diseases and colds.
Contraindications
People with individual intolerance to the components and allergies shall avoid using this substance. Also, it is important to limit the intake for hypertensive patients. Systematically increased blood pressure is not compatible with the preventive course of taking valerian.
Frequently asked questions about valerian
- What useful substances are contained in valerian extract?
Valerian extract contains formic, acetic, and malic acids, essential oils, alkaloids, magnesium, and zinc.
- What is the benefit of taking valerian extract for the human body?
Valerian has long been known for its soothing effect. However, this plant is also a choleretic. It also helps to relieve pain, spasms. Valerian tones the body increases the elasticity of blood vessels.
- Which dosage form of valerian extract is better?
It is impossible to determine which form of the drug is better, given that they are intended for different purposes. Tablets and capsules are convenient to take with you to work, or while on the road trip. Tinctures and extracts are more suitable for home-usage.
In addition to people with individual intolerance, valerian should not be taken by hypertensive patients.