Valerian officinalis is most widely used in folk and official medicine. It has been used for healing since ancient Greece. Modern pharmacology produces various preparations based on it, among them valerian tinctures, extract, teas, which do an excellent job with nervous disorders and diseases of the cardiovascular system.
Chemical composition of the plant
The stems and rhizomes of the plant contain a huge amount of useful substances. These are polysaccharides, tannins, a multiple list of organic acids - among them are malic, formic, acetic, palmitic and others. In addition, valerian contains a unique essential oil, which includes valerioborneol ester, isovaleric acid, proazulene and other substances.
Useful properties of valerian
This plant has an excellent sedative, sedative, antispasmodic, tonic and choleretic effect. A drug such as valerian extract can reduce the excitability of the nervous system, increase the secretion of the gastric tract, relax smooth muscles andexpand the coronary vessels. It is used as a primary and auxiliary remedy for many diseases. Diseases such as hypertension, migraine, tachycardia, epilepsy are among the ailments in which this medicinal plant is an indispensable remedy. Valerian extract has the strongest sedative properties and is indicated for insomnia, hysteria, and nervous excitability. This drug is also indispensable for the he alth of women in menopause. Equally important is the value of valerian in the treatment of diseases of the digestive system.
Valerian plant preparations
For medicinal purposes, the roots of the plant are harvested, the most favorable time for their collection is the end of summer and the beginning of autumn. Water and alcohol infusions, soothing teas are made from valerian, it is part of many medicines. Valerian extract has amazing properties. The price of this drug is small, but the effectiveness is high. In addition, the herb will be an excellent bathing agent, such treatments will help you completely relax and rejuvenate.
Contraindications
However, we should not forget that valerian extract has contraindications. It is important to observe the correct dosage of the drug, since improper intake and prolonged use lead to constant drowsiness, decreased performance and the appearance of a depressive state. Do not take the drug uncontrollably in old age,especially with the threat of a stroke or heart attack, as well as with chronic enterocolitis, in the first three months of pregnancy and with individual intolerance. In case of nausea, tachycardia, various allergic reactions, lethargy, you should stop taking valerian extract. It is also not recommended to use this tool when driving a car, work that requires concentration.