Continuing on with our Mental Health Alternative herbs, I now come to Valerian (Sitka Valerian - Valeriana sitchensis), which is quite beautiful in flower form as you can see.

Valerian is the most widely used sedative in Europe, with more than 100 different preparations sold in stores and pharmacies alike. It can reduce and relieve in most cases, symptoms associated with nervousness and physical grief, such as headaches, cramping, palpitations of the heart, and low concentration levels.

Valerian and Valerian Root have been a mainstay of traditional Chinese medicine, as well as Indian Ayurvedic medicine, for thousands of years. Great staying power, huh?

Valerian is currently one of the top 10 herbs used around the world. In fact, along the same lines as it's use in Chinese medicine for so long, Doctors prescribed it exclusively before Valium came along for grief treatment as well as coping with emotional grief. 

There is a huge amount of scientific documentation to its effectiveness and overall safety. For daytime anxiety, take 50-100 mg two to three times a day.

CAUTIONS:
  • May cause hangover symptoms the next day.
  • Valerian has been reported to cause stimulant effects in about 5% of hte population.
  • Headaches, nervousness, palpitations and upset tummy are rare side effects.
  • NEVER combine any sedative with alcoholic beverages folks - it's just not wise to tempt fate!