Is valerian good for depression?

Have you ever felt so down that not even your favorite food could lift your mood? Does dragging yourself out of bed seem like an uphill task? You’re not alone! Depression is a buzz-killer, and dealing with it can be tough. Millions of people worldwide suffer from depression, and while there are several treatments available to manage this condition, many prefer natural ways to cope.

One such natural remedy gaining popularity in recent times is Valerian root. In this article, we’ll dive into what valerian root is, how it affects the brain chemistry when used as a supplement or tea and its potential impact on depression.

What Is Valerian Root?

Valerian root comes from the perennial flowering plant called Valeriana officinalis, native to Europe and Asia but now cultivated globally. For centuries valerian has been utilized for medicinal purposes as an herbal sleep aid; calming anxiety symptoms; as well as providing relief against headaches.

The roots have a pungent odor due to components such as valerenic acid — phenols responsible for creating relaxing effects once ingested pre-sleep. The herb also contains flavonoids thought linked with reduced neuronal cell losses in areas of our brains vulnerable during insulin resistance characteristic of neurodegenerative illnesses such Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).

With these properties only making up some aspects of why one might take valeric-root supplements — who knew the root had more benefits?. We’ll look at willow bark later next!

How Does Valarian Root Affect Brain Chemistry?

When looking at depressive behavior last year researchers discovered that certain chemicals studied by them showed promise using test subjects’ synapses. These specific tests saw GABA (an inhibitory sensor) alter functionality within two specific proteins thought important toward management chronic stress levels across time frames measured through studying mice under different conditions typically experienced over development.

We may translate the findings of studies to conclude that as a ‘GABA conveyor’ Valerian root would reduce stress and anxiety by supporting GABA signaling through neurons rather than binding them.

What Are The Potential Benefits Of Valerian Root For Depression?

Though it’s not an FDA-approved treatment for depression, valerian has been identified as possessing essential properties relevant toward potential management or soothing depressive moods instead.

Promotes Better Sleep Patterns

One common symptom observed in patients suffering from depression is sleep disturbance; whether difficulty falling asleep, interrupted sleep cycle or unrefreshed wake-up. With its sedative-hypnotic qualities, folks taking valeric supplements nights before bed have experienced more sound sleep.

Reduced Anxiety And Stress Level

Disruptions in social relationships occur most times compare notes with psychiatric diagnoses due to how stressful conditions can be which might generate unwanted chemical injuries across our bodies. Studies show that high oral dosages of supplementing valeric root resulted in lower perceived stress over time when compared against placebo results using experiment groups set at relatively similar calorie intake (e.g., already existing diets among participants).

Mild Anti-Depressant Effects

Several clinical trials investigated the possibility of ingesting this herb supplement being useful for staving off mild-to-moderate types of depressions overtime lessen effects prompted from intensity forms across time periods under different settings. Since chronic inflammation contributes significantly to mental health issues such as cognitive fog and sadness faced during depression spelled over days on end – Countless articles support positive anti-inflammatory responses resulting indirectly after ingesting valerica-root.

These are just some potential benefits that can be attributed to Valarian usage planned into your meals ordinarily anytime soon! Plus don’t forget there’s willow bark still sitting awaiting public attention!

Is It Safe To Use Valerian Roots?

While generally harmless, like all medicines used today, we must proceed with caution. Valarian may have some risks and side effects depending on the individual’s condition when taken.

Side Effects Of Valerian Root

–       Dizziness
–       Upset stomach 
–       Headaches 
–       Daytime drowsiness.

Note that certain people taking medication for insomnia or other depression-related disorders have reported feeling agitated moments after consuming extracts from the herbal root in several testing environments.

Therefore we must consider consulting a healthcare provider before embarking on any self-healing journey using valeric supplements down the line!

Drug Interactions With Valerian Roots

Suppose you’re currently prescribed to take sedatives, anti-anxiety drugs, alcohol or antihistamines as part of your treatment plan be cautious if combining these compounds alongside this supplement-mediated therapy (likely self-prescribed). Research proves that using both simultaneously can heighten one’s level of sedation beyond what might cause harmful actions being carried out such as driving under influence just-like circumstances — And need I remind you about ‘I had one drink-you know it’ situations we recount often?!

How Can You Ingest Valerian?

Valerian supplements are available in powders, syrup forms and capsules at most health stores near relevant pharmacies sold cheaper price points overall today! Or perhaps aiming for simplicity try making your tea by steeping valeric plants easily accessible paired Golden-Rod leaves increasing herbaceous flavors inside soups along with roasted corn muffins contrasted against mild Gouda cheese spread.

In conclusion, limited studies show promise regarding valerica root’s efficacy toward staving off low-to-moderate levels of depression signs but demonstrating potential positive anti-inflammatory effects indirectly through lessened symptoms stemming fro neurodegenerative illnesses too; always check-in w/your assigned medical professional before delving into potentially trigger-happy drug interactions resulting from ignoring prescription instructions foolishly without first receiving medical guidance directed specifically around your health conditions.

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