Valerian - Natural Sleep Enhancer

One of the best natural sleep enhancer is a valerian root. Studies have shown valerian not only reduces the time required to fall asleep, but also limits nighttime awakenings due to its sedative properties.

It acts like natural Valium, reducing anxiety, says W. Chrisotopher Winter, M.D. Director of Martha jefferson Hospital in Charlottesville, Virginia. As the result, Valerian can be used for the relief of insomnia, stress-related anxiety, and nervous restlessness. It may also be taken to ease stomach and menstrual cramps, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), some of the restlessness that accompanies attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and migraine symptoms.

Valerian can be consumed in capsule, tea, tablet or liquid extract forms and can be bought in most health food stores or pharmacies.

For best results mix 1 teaspoon of valerian extract with a glass of water, and drink the mixture an hour before bed.