Valerian tea – what it is for, benefits and how to make it!

Valerian  tea is a beverage that uses valerian root as its main ingredient. Valerian root is taken from the valerian plant, which is native to Europe and parts of Asia. The medicinal properties come from drying the root of the plant and using it in various remedies to help induce sleep, calm the nerves and reduce stress .

Valerian is a medicinal plant of the valerianaceae family, also known as apothecary valerian, wild valerian or catnip, widely used as a home remedy for insomnia , anxiety and restlessness.

The scientific name of the Valeriana plant is Valeriana Officinalis and it produces pink flowers, which can reach about 1 meter in height. The part of the plant that has therapeutic effects is the root, which can be taken in tablets.

Properties:

1. Sedative;
2. Soothing and relaxing;
3. Hysteria;
4. Menopause disorders;
5. Chronic insomnia ;
6. stress ;
7. Dermatoses pruriginosas;
8. Heart disorders of nervous origin;
9. cramps ;
10. Antispasmodics;
11. Sleep aid (reduces the time it takes a person to fall asleep and increases the duration of sleep);
12. Anticonvulsant.

Due to its properties, valerian tea is very useful for people who suffer from sleep-related problems, such as insomnia , anxiety, stress , epilepsy, as well as helping those who are quitting smoking.

What is valerian tea for?

Because it is a natural tranquilizer, Valerian can be used in several cases such as:

1. Insomnia ;
2. Agitation;
3. nervous exhaustion;
4. Excessive mental effort;
5. Lack of concentration;
6. Irritability;
7. stress ;
8. Headache;
9. Heart diseases of nervous origin;
10. Gastric spasms;
11. Anxiety .

The active principles of Valerian Tea  influence the functioning of nerve cells, having a tranquilizing, anxiolytic, antispasmodic and relaxing effect.

Health benefits of valerian tea:

1. It helps you sleep better:

As a sedative substance, this valerian tea is good for people who suffer from sleep disorders such as Insomnia , or constantly disrupted sleep patterns. And  it should not be combined with other sleeping pills under any circumstances, but when taken independently, it can give you restful sleep and a refreshing feeling in the morning.

2. Fights anxiety and depression:

One of the most popular uses  of valerian tea is to reduce anxiety  and stress . It has naturally calming and sedative qualities, due to some of the volatile acids and oils in the root, helping people to calm down and focus instead of feeling overwhelmed. It can also provide mental clarity and eliminate feelings of depression .

3. Improves indigestion:

If you are suffering from an upset stomach, constipation, bloating, cramping , nausea, or indigestion, the antioxidants in valerian tea can stimulate positive muscle function and reduce bowel spasms. This will result in normal bowel movements and a reduction in discomfort.

4. Improves headaches and migraines:

One of the best ways to get rid of a headache or a migraine is with a cup . The natural anti-inflammatory properties of this tea can ease inflammation in capillaries and lower blood pressure, helping to relieve the pain and tension of most headaches .

5. Helps treat menstrual cramps:

Women know that menstrual cramps  can be extremely painful, but a cup of valerian root tea has anti-spasmodic and sedative qualities, meaning it can easily eliminate these symptoms and provide relief during menstruation. Valerian  tea can also lighten mood and rebalance hormones that may be causing irritability or anxiety  during your period.

6. Lowers blood pressure:

Now that you know that valerian root can be so calming for the mind and body, it’s probably not surprising to hear that it can also help lower blood pressure, improving heart health. The same active components that make valerian root so effective for managing stress  and anxiety  can also help the body properly regulate your blood pressure .

7. Improves stress management:

By reducing anxiety  and improving sleep duration and quality, valerian root can significantly help with daily stress management . Chronic stress  can make you feel anxious, but anxiety  can also make you feel more stressed.

By improving GABA levels, valerian facilitates relaxation of the mind and body. As relaxation is the antithesis of stress , valerian root is an excellent natural way to help keep stress and quality of life high.

How to make valerian tea?

Ingredients:

– 1 teaspoon of chopped valerian root and rhizome;
– Boiling water .

Preparation method:

1. Put the boiling water inside a cup of tea;
2. Add valerian and simmer for five minutes;
3. Afterwards, strain and consume the tea.

Valerian tea side effects:

Using valerian tea can have some side effects such as dizziness, gastrointestinal upset, contact allergies, headache and mydriasis (pupil dilation). It is necessary to pay attention to the time of use of the plant, because, in prolonged periods, it can cause headaches , sleep, tiredness , Insomnia , mydriasis and heart disorders. Remember, when buying a medication, always read the package insert and consult a specialist doctor!