Does valerian help you sleep better? This is what science says Life

Many people rely on the properties of valerian to relax and sleep better. But does it really have these effects? Let’s see what the science says about this medicinal herb.

Valerian is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and some parts of Asia that has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient Greece. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, described its properties, and later physician and surgeon Galen prescribed it as a treatment for insomnia.

Although it is also used as a natural remedy for symptoms of anxiety, depression, or menopause, the most widespread use of valerian is as a treatment for insomnia. In fact, it is one of the most commonly used injections for good sleep in Europe and the United States.

But, is it true that valerian helps you sleep and rest better? Valerian root, which is the part that is used medicinally, she has Different Residential complexes It can help you sleep and reduce anxiety, such as Valerenic acid, isovaleric acid, and a variety of antioxidants.

Scientists aren’t completely sure how valerian works to promote sleep, but the main theory is that it increases levels of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a chemical messenger that helps regulate nerve impulses in the brain and nerves. the system.

According to Some scientific studiesAnd the Valerenic acid prevents the breakdown of GABA in the brain, resulting in a feeling of calm and serenity. Additionally, it also contains hesperidin and linaren, which are both antioxidants that They look like It has a calming property to improve sleep.

Various investigations Suggest to take valerian Staying asleep can improve your ability to fall asleep and get better sleep.

For example in Small study With people experiencing sleeping difficulties, 89% of participants felt better in taking valerian root extract, and in Another investigation Bedtime has been reduced thanks to the addition of 400 mg of valerian root.

however, It should be borne in mind that these are small studies based on participants’ perception, Not in objective criteria for sleep quality, such as heart rate or brain activity. For this reason, the evidence that taking valerian helps you sleep is considered inconclusive by some health professionals.