Benefits & Application:
Insomnia, Anxiolytic (Anxiety) and Hypnotic, Antispasmodic, vaso relaxant and anti-convulsant, stress management.
Insomnia and Its Adverse Effects on Health ressors
Not having enough quality sleep can have significant effects on overall health, impacting both physical and mental well-being.
Some of the key ways it can affect cognitive function include impairing attention, decision making, and memory. Insomnia is also closely linked to emotional health disorders such as anxiety and depression. It can exacerbate symptoms and create a cycle of poor sleep and increased emotional distress.
Lack of sleep is also associated with weight gain since it regulates hormones that control appetite, stress and growth, so if anyone is battling with their weight then quality sleep should be their top one priority.
Even though there are many effective medications to address insomnia, these often have many side effects, including drowsiness, negative effects on memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function. This can lead to confusion or difficulty thinking clearly.
Natural alternatives to sleep medications are in high demand at naturopathic clinics and among practitioners of complementary medicine. Numerous herbs and natural compounds have been scientifically validated for their ability to promote sleep and relaxation.
Today, we will focus on Valerian root, a sedative herb known for its medicinal properties for over 2,000 years and supported by numerous scientific studies and meta-analyses.
Valerian Root: History and Chemical Properties
The sedative effects of valerian have been recognised for over 2000 years, having been used by Hippocrates and Dioscorides in ancient Greece. Over the past 500 years, valerian has been widely used in Europe for nervousness or hysteria and to treat dyspepsia and flatulence.
Valerian root contains compounds called iridoid glycosides. These compounds stimulate opioid receptors and serotonin production in our brain producing relaxing and anti-depressive effects. Some researchers also believe that valerian boosts the brain chemical gamma amino butyric (GABA), which has a calming effect on your body.
The chief component responsible for the anxiolytic activity of valerian is the valerianic acid content. In a study, two extracts of valerian were tested with different calerenic acid ratios.
A stronger anciolytic effect was seen in test animals for the higher concentration extract (12:1) compared to a lower ratio (1:1.5).
Main Actions and Servings
1. Anxiolytic: Valerian root is thought to influence the GABA (gamma-amino butyric acid) system, which is critical for regulating mood and anxiety. It may increase GABA availability in the brain, promoting a calming effect.
Usage: Often recommended as a natural alternative to pharmaceutical anxiolytics, valerian is commonly taken in tea, tincture, or supplement form.
2. Hypnotic: Valerian root is widely used to improve sleep quality and help with insomnia. Its sedative properties may help individuals fall asleep faster and experience deeper sleep.
Dosage and Administration: Valerian is typically taken in dosages ranging from 300 to 600 mg, usually about 30 minutes to two hours before bed time, though it’s essential to consult a health care provider for personalized advice.
3. Antiasparmodic: Valerian has been used traditionally to alleviate gastro intestinal spasms, which can occur in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). By relaxing the smooth muscles of the gut, it may help relieve cramping and discomfort.
Typical Dosage: A common dosage is 1 to 2 grams of valerian root powder taken one to three times daily.
Safety Profile: Valerian is generally considered safe for short-term use, but it’s always best to consult a health care provider for long-term use or if combined with other medications.
If you’re thinking about including valerian root in a supplement blend, be aware that it has a strong, distinct bitter taste. The powder can be encapsulated or included in a blend with other ingredients that may help mask its bitterness.
Other Ingredients that may enhance the effectiveness of Valerian Root
- Valerian Root and Lemon Balm Combine have been shown to:
Reduced sleep latency (time to fall a sleep).
Improved sleep quality in individuals with sleep disturbances.
Valerian Root and Hops (Humulus lupulus) have been shown to:
Significantly reduced sleep latency.
Increased slow-wave sleep.
Purewellness Retail Ready Blend containing Valerian Roots & Other Sleep Aid ingredients:
P.M. Thermogenic Sleep Aid (Naturopath Formulated)
Ingredients: L-Tryptophan, Tart Cherry Powder, Glycine, Acetyl L-Carnitine, Natural Flavours, Ascorbic Acid, Valerian Root Powder, Hops Powder, Magnesium Phosphatedi basic, Monk Fruit Extract, L-Theanine, Nicotinamide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride.
Amino acids
L-Tryptophan – is an essential amino acid that supports the body to make serotonin – a brain chemical (neuro transmitter) that is involved in mood control, appetite and sleep. Essential amino acids are not made by the body and must be supplied by our diet.
Purewellness Pure Glycine Powder – a non-essential amino acid (meaning the body can make it) and neurotransmitter, glycine may assist with calming the nervous system and promoting sleep. It also supports healthy muscle function and overall well-being.
Purewellness L-Theanine Powder – found naturally abundant in green and black tea, L-Theanine induces the brain waves that naturally leave us feeling calm and relaxed.
Acetyl L-Carnitine – another essential amino acid, L-Carnitine is involved in energy production with in the mitochondria (power house) with in all our body cells. Many athletes find that taking it before bed improves their sleep.
Always consult a health care professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
If you have any inquiries regarding pricing, minimum order quantities (MOQ), quotes, or samples of valerian root or any of the sleep aid ingredients mentioned in this newsletter, please feel free to reach out to our team.
We are looking forward to assisting you!
