The most famous effect of valerian is calming. It was used in ancient times by the Romans and Greeks for relaxing baths, preparing sleeping pills, remedies for neurasthenia and emotional disorders. But not only this is useful valerian root - the medicinal properties and contra-indications of this part of the grass have been studied more thoroughly, as a result of which it became clear that the plant is able to cope with many other serious pathologies.
Therapeutic properties of valerian root
The rhizomes of the herb in question contain a large amount of essential oil (up to 3%), as well as organic acids, alkaloids, tannins, carbohydrates, resins and starch.
The main active ingredient is valerian oil, which mainly consists of borneol. This chemical compound gives the plant roots the ability to calm the nervous system, reduce receptor sensitivity. Therefore, preparations from valerian are prescribed in such cases:
- light forms of psychasthenia;
- neurasthenia;
- manic-depressive conditions;
- acute agitation;
- mental trauma;
- chronic functional disorders of the nervous system;
- neurodermatitis;
- hysteria;
- stable insomnia;
- neuralgia;
- migraine .
Other useful properties of valerian root and contraindications to it
In addition to the well-known sedative effect, the described part of the plant produces a beneficial effect on the heart muscle, the conducting system and all the mechanisms of automatism of the heart. In addition, valerian shows expanding properties with respect to coronary blood vessels, it lowers the pressure in hypertensive disease.
Tincture on the roots of medicinal herbs is also used for such diseases:
- convulsions;
- epilepsy or epileptic seizures;
- chronic coronary artery disease;
- neurosis of the cardiovascular system;
- spasms of the digestive system;
- tachycardia;
- climacteric syndrome;
- intestine and stomach intestines.
But there are a number of contraindications to the use of valerian root:
- chronic or acute enterocolitis;
- hypotension (low blood pressure);
- risk of myocardial infarction, stroke;
- individual intolerance;
- chronic liver disease;
- decreased performance, drowsiness.
Careful approach to Valerian therapy follows the elderly and pregnant women.