Valerian
Valeriana officinalis and other species

The beauty of this anxiety remedy is that it is not addictive nor habit forming, unlike a lot of sedatives. There are no known side effects and German Commission E states that no restrictions are known for use during pregnancy and lactation. And it does not interact with other drugs. Can it get any better? Actually, yes it can!

Being antispasmodic as well as a nervine, it has been reported as relieving muscle spasms and pain. Valerian is useful in acute problems such as headaches. Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar likes a combination with white willow bark in a tincture for this purpose.

Some women find it helpful during menstrual cramping and tension. It relaxes the muscles when used in combination with other herbs such as cramp bark. Menopausal women find the herb useful for calming and relaxing them, as menopause can be a rough ride.

What actually makes this herb useful in natural sleep remedies? The roots contain essential oils that contribute to the relaxing effects. Even the smell is relaxing! However, these essential oils in the root make it smell like dirty socks, although that is no indication of the taste.

In order for it to be effective, enough needs to be consumed. And that is different for each person. Start off with small doses and gradually build up until you feel the relaxing effects.

German Commission E recommends 2 - 3 grams in a cup of tea once to several times a day. Or 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of tincture once to several times a day.

I have enjoyed this herb mainly in a tincture, but do use it in Herbal Sleep Remedy Tea.

This wonderful sleep aid is used widely throughout Europe and is approved by the German Commission E and World Health Organization for restlessness and sleeping disorders.