How to make Valerian Tea? 


Nowadays, several teas are available. Each has its own remarkable health benefits. Blue and black tea were the only teas we knew, and their caffeine level made them unhealthy. White tea, pink tea, blue tea, and other shrubs throughout Asia, Europe, and China have antioxidant and anticoagulant qualities. Valerian tea, too.

Origin of Herb Valerian

The valerian is a flowering perennial that grows in both Asian and European regions (Valeriana officinalis, Caprifoliaceae). During summers, when the plant is completely grown and may reach a height of 1.5m, it produces fragrant pink or white flowers (5 feet). Several kinds of insects, notably hoverflies of the genus Eristalis, are drawn to these blossoms. It serves as a food source for the larvae of several species of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), along with the grey pug.

What is Valerian Tea

Although the main element in commercially available valerian tea products is often Valerian, they may also contain a variety of other herbs. Although native to Europe and China, the valerian plant (Valeriana officinalis) also flourishes in North and South America. The plant is well-known for its distinctive odor, which many compare to the stench of dirty socks.

According to some reports, Valerian, also known as a "magic sleep potion," is Europe's most popular sedative available without a prescription. Yet, only some people drink valerian tea. Some customers purchase the substance as a tablet or capsule.

Several people say that valerian tea has a woodsy flavor. The plant thrives in wet, grassy places, giving the tea an earthy flavor. The taste of valerian tea becomes more potent as the brewing time increases.

Health Benefits of Valerian Tea

  • The Hippocratic Oath was named after the Greek physician Hippocrates, who employed valerian root to alleviate insomnia. People have used it for several purported health benefits ever since.

  • For ages, herbalists have recommended valerian root to treat insomnia and sleep disorders. However, modern scientific research has not supported the suggestion that valerian root has a slight calming effect. Several studies point to the impact, although more investigation is required. The research results indicated that valerian root extract might improve sleep quality.

  • Researchers still need to fully understand how valerian root improves sleep. They think there are several different contributing variables. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is one way Valerian raises GABA levels in the brain.

  • GABA functions as a neurotransmitter that blocks unneeded nervous system activity. According to studies, increased GABA levels in the brain have been linked to quicker sleep onset and higher sleep quality.

  • Britain used valerian root to combat the effects of bombing during World War Two. It was used to cure anxiety by doctors in the 1500s. Some preliminary research suggests that valerian root may have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties; nevertheless, further study is required. There is insufficient evidence that valerianic acid in valerian root may help reduce anxiety. 

  • Valerian root decreases menopausal hot flashes. Hot flashes cause sweat, quick pulse, and abrupt warmth. Hormonal heat flashes Hot flashes affect 80% of menopausal women and 90%–100% of ovarian removal patients. These may cause sleeplessness and other difficulties. Hormones diminish hot flashes. These treatments may not help high-risk breast cancer, heart, blood clot, and stroke patients. Valerian root may aid alternative treatment searchers.

  • Premenstrual symptoms are lessened. 90% of menstruate people report premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. Around the time of their menstruation, some people get PMS that is so severe that it interferes with their ability to lead everyday lives. According to one study, valerian root may lessen the severity of PMS symptoms on both the physical and emotional levels.

How to Prepare Valerian Tea

The most common way to purchase valerian root tea, often known as valerian tea, is in tea bags, but you can also find some retailers who offer the loose-leaf version. This herbal tea is made the same way as most other types of tea.

  • Determine tea quantity. If using pre-portioned tea bags, follow the package and use one per serving. Nevertheless, valerian content varies per herbal blend. Loose Valerian or herbal blends may be measured. You may follow the packing guidelines; however, the dosage will depend on your goals. Insomnia studies indicated valerian tea with 2-3g of dried root works.

  • Pour boiling water into an infusion cup. Nevertheless, pouring boiling water over valerian tea may reduce its therapeutic elements. Before pouring, let the water cool. If using a single-serving tea bag, pour water into the cup. Use a loose tea kettle, infuser, or a tea bag in a cup to make valerian tea.

  • Tea should be steeped. According to the directions on the tea packaging and taste preferences, cover the pot and let the tea simmer for the required period. The ideal steeping time for Valerian is between 10 and 15 minutes.

  • Time your tea consumption. Valerian tea should be freshly brewed just before consumption for optimal efficacy. The less effective it might be, the longer it stays, already brewed, on the counter or in the refrigerator.

  • Valerian tea should be ingested between 30 minutes and 2 hours before bed to alleviate insomnia. Depending on how your body processes the active ingredients in valerian tea, the timing that fits you within that range is different. If you fall asleep too soon or experience insomnia after bed, try making and drinking valerian tea earlier or closer tonight.

Side Effects of Valerian Tea

The valerian root was deemed the best promising remedy for sleep and insomnia after assessing 11 herbal remedies. Yet, there are conflicting and primarily based on anecdotal evidence of its efficacy. However, some people experience side effects, and these differ significantly across people.

  • Valerian may create vivid dreams due to its iridoid glycosides and essential oils. These medicines relieve depression by stimulating your brain's opioid receptors and serotonin synthesis. Several studies believe Valerian increases GABA, which relaxes the body.

  • In the 16th century, valerian root was utilized to treat heart palpitations. Ironically, valerian root users and abstainers have experienced heart palpitations. Yet, these stories are anecdotal.

  • Valerian root's oral and digestive effects vary. Some said it boosted their bowel motions. Europeans have used Valerian for centuries to alleviate digestive disorders, including constipation.

  • Valerian root relieves headaches, but some users report worsening symptoms and mental fogginess. Repeated or high doses of this herb tend to induce most of these adverse effects. More headaches and cognitive difficulties like irritability and unease may be indicators. Some individuals, particularly those who take valerian root in high doses, feel lethargic the morning after.

Updated on: 07-Mar-2023

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