Valerian…Herbs to Have on Hand

If you have felt frazzled lately, and desperate for a vacation, then maybe  Valerian is just the herb for you.

I keep certain herbs on hand at all times, and make sure that they are fresh. One of these is Valerian capsules. Valerian is good for many things. It has some similar effects to the chemical medication, Vallium.

Valerian is a relaxant for the central nervous system. It brings on a calm sleep and does not give you the sleep medication hang over that a lot of drugs do. Some of the other benefits of this herb are:

• Reduces stress
• Great for nervous tension and all that goes with that:

• heart palpitations
• irritability
• hysteria
• panic
• anxiety
• fear
• stomach cramping
• nervous indigestion
• delusions
• nervous exhaustion

• It is good in cases of multiple sclerosis
• sciatica
• peripheral neuropathy
• migraines
• adhd
• behavioral disorders in both adults and children
• hyperactivity
• It can reduce the intensity of asthma attacks
• reduce uterine cramping
• stabilize the blood pressure in some cases
• depression

It is almost impossible to overdoes on this. Usual dose is two capsules, I give Marc three to four, depending on the need and he is 6′ 6″.

The one huge drawback to Valerian is that is stinks. Bad. The odor has been decrobed as old gym socks. Whatever. It is bad..and if you burp after taking one? yuck.

You can also get it in a tincture. I would not recommend a tea for the obvious reason stated above.

Valerian does not just cover the symptoms it helps to heal the under-lying problems.

Valerian is not at all expensive, and you can find it about anywhere. DO get a good brand. This is so important with herbs, that you not try to save money. Herbs are not regulated by the government agencies (thank God, because I have had it with everything being regulated to death) so less expensive may mean less quality or additives you don’t want.

My favorite company is NOW Foods. I find them to be reasonable in price, easily obtained, and the quality has always been outstanding.

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