Gifts of Siberia: Valerian

A chapter on the soothing effects of valerian, bringing peace and harmony to people's lives...

When asked about the best sedative and most beneficial plant for our nervous system, valerian is often the first choice that not only comes to mind, but also provides assistance. It is widely known that during times of severe stress or anxiety, valerian can quickly calm us down and bring relief to the soul.

A familiar stranger

Valerian can be found in almost every home. However, when encountered in the wild, not many people can recognize it. This perennial herbaceous plant can grow up to 2 meters high. It bears small flowers with white-pink petals, which are clustered at the tops of stems in paniculate inflorescences. The flowers emit a fragrant scent, loved by members of the feline family.

Valerian, belonging to the subfamily Valerianaceae, is originally from the Mediterranean region. However, today it is cultivated in a remarkably wide range of areas. This plant thrives in moist soils, which is why it is commonly found along river banks, in swampy areas, and at the edges of forests. In total, there are over 200 species of valerian plants worldwide, with approximately 40 species found in Russia. Common valerian species found in Siberia include Valeriana alternifolia, Valeriana capitata, Valeriana petrophila, Valeriana zaissanensis, and Valeriana altaica. The most well-known and commonly used species of valerian for medicinal purposes is Valeriana officinalis. But what is interesting is that the term "Valeriana officinalis" encompasses multiple plant species with medicinal properties, sharing similar compositions and methods of application.

There is no consensus on the origin of the generic name. According to one version, it is derived from the Latin word "valere", which means "to be healthy". According to another theory, the plant is named after the Valeria district, which is believed to be its place of origin. Its name is also associated with the Roman emperor Valerian or the Roman physician Pliny Valerian. But one thing is certain: We are dealing with a highly ancient medicinal plant.

Valerian's curious healing powers

Healers of Ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, India, and the East already knew about the properties of valerian to have a beneficial effect on higher nervous activity. Valerian has long been attributed to the ability to soothe and strengthen the brain, and it has even been said to have the power to control thoughts. Official medicine only recognized the medicinal potential of valerian in the 19th century, and since then, it has continued to captivate the minds of modern scientists worldwide. This has led to numerous studies and dedicated research efforts to unlock its full therapeutic benefits.

Valerian is highly regarded in medical practice for its gentle sedative, antispasmodic, and choleretic properties. Medications derived from valerian are widely utilized across numerous countries for various purposes. They are commonly prescribed for conditions such as insomnia, nervous agitation, neurosis related to the cardiovascular system, asthma, epilepsy, gastrointestinal tract and thyroid gland disorders. In traditional folk medicine, this plant is used in various forms including decoctions, tinctures, powders, and extracts. It is often incorporated into herbal teas with gastric, sedative, and diuretic properties.

Where the sedative properties come from

The rhizome and roots of valerian are utilized for medicinal purposes as they contain a rich concentration of beneficial biologically active substances: Essential oils, organic acids, tannins, saponins, chatinin, and valerin, essential macro- and micronutrients such as calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, manganese, magnesium, and selenium.

Valerian's essential oils, including the esteemed borneol acetate, a complex ester of borneol and isovaleric acid, are highly prized for their role in imparting the sedative properties of the plant:

• Soothes the nervous system;
• Relaxes spasm of smooth muscles and coronary vessels;
• Reduces anxiety;
• Helps to lower blood pressure;
• Stimulates blood circulation;
• Helps normalize sleep

Moreover, valerian extract enhances the sensitivity of gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors, which are the primary inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain. This mechanism further contributes to the sedative effect of the plant, which manifests gradually and fully unfolds with a systematic and long-term course of treatment.

Valerian's well-documented ability to calm and soothe the central nervous system has made it a valuable ingredient in several of Siberian Wellness' products designed to promote emotional balance and support stress management:

– Valerian & Melissa – plant-based anti-stress complex;
– Stress Re.Live – an innovative organic complex that protects the nervous system, prevents stress, restores normal sleep, and elevates mood;
– Herbal Tea № 3 (Natural poise) – reduces anxiety, helps to cope with stress, and improves sleep quality.