Valerian root is a herb that has been used for centuries to treat problems such as insomnia,
anxiety, and headaches. Historically, valerian roots were often used in England during World War II
to relieve stress and anxiety at that time.
Nowadays, valerian root is one of the most popular herbal sleep aids in Europe and in the United States
and is also available as a food supplement in the form of capsule and syrup. Valerian root is generally
dried and sold as tea.
The researchers are not entirely sure how valerian root works to improve sleep because there has
not been much research on this. However, there is one theory that says valerian root can increase
the level of neurotransmitters called gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA. Large amounts of GABA
can cause drowsiness.
Although not much research has been done, some researchers say that consuming valerian root tea
can help improve sleep quality without adverse side effects. They concluded that valerian root can
improve overall sleep quality by shortening the time needed to fall asleep and prevent them to
jolted awake while sleeping at night.
