Do you find it hard to sleep at night? Are you tossing and turning on your bed, wishing you’d get a sound sleep? If this problem has bothered you during menopause, check out how Chamomile and Valerian Herbs can help you to alleviate the symptom.
Chamomile and Valerian Herbs
In Egyptian History, Chamomile was used as an offering to the gods. It is an aromatic plant that grows white flowers that look like small daisies. German and Roman Chamomile are two common types of herb, but they mostly have the same actions in the body. The flowers are said to be the most potent part of this herb.
Valerian herb is a similar plant with white or pink flowers that smell good as well. However, its roots smell pungent in a way. But, you don’t have to be scared of its smell. The roots are the most beneficial part of this herb and are often paired with Chamomile flowers to promote relaxation and sleep.
How They Work
Both of these herbs are considered tonic agents. They bring the body to a healthier and more relaxed state. They work directly on the estrogen receptors and the brain in general. When used together, they can act as a mild sedative. Even if you are in pain, these herbs can help you relax and decrease the level of pain.
These herbs are known to be great remedies for insomnia or difficulty of sleeping. If you find it hard to sleep at night, you can consume a cup of chamomile and valerian tea, an hour before you go to sleep. Both herbs are also good for anxiety management. If you feel restless, nervous or upset, chamomile and valerian will help you calm down.
Chamomile and Valerian in Menopause
Menopause brings about certain problems to women and that includes sleeping difficulties. Both the herbs have phytoestrogenic functions that fight off this symptom. Phytoestrogens attach to estrogen receptors and work as estrogens or inhibit its function.
Moumita Das mentioned in her book, “Chamomile: Medicinal, Biochemical and Agricultural Aspects”, that Chamomile’s nutrients bind to estrogen receptors. They either act like estrogen and cause relaxation of the body or inhibit excessive estrogen functions and balance the ratio between estrogen and progesterone.
One study has gathered results about Valerian herb as an effective means of treating hot flashes in menopause. Aside from its sedative property that promotes sleep, your sleeping patterns will be regulated even more. Valerian Herb is capable of reducing your hot flashes, which could add to your sleeping problems.
Other Uses of the Herbs
Chamomile oils are also used in aromatherapies to promote relaxation. Most of the time, chamomile is added to cosmetic products including face or body powders, lotions, essential oils and even shampoos and conditioners.
Valerian is also used as a treatment for pain. As a pain reliever, it does not cause dependency, which is considered to be a good treatment option.
Possible Side Effects
Chamomile infusion may irritate the eyes. Avoid its application near the eyes. Also, proper precautions should be done in individuals who are sensitive to both herbs.
If you have continuously taken Valerian supplements for a certain duration, it is advised to stop its use gradually. You can use lower doses every week until you can fully get off the supplementation. Suddenly stopping your Valerian supplements from a continuous administration might cause withdrawal symptoms, such as headache and insomnia. However, these happen rarely.
Buying Chamomile and Valerian Root Products
Both herbs can be home-grown plants. You can look for them in the market as whole plants to keep in your garden. Their dried forms are also available in ready-made tea bags so you can just prepare your tea easily. These herbs are also produced into oil formulas. These are often used for massage to promote sleep and rest.
Chamomile and Valerian root preparations are very easy to find online. Just decide on which type of preparation you want to avail and different websites will be able to provide you with various products.
Did you have a good night’s sleep with Chamomile and Valerian Herbs? Share your experiences with us in the comment box below!
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Gita is the founder of My Menopause Journey. Since 2014, she has been supporting midlife women by sharing hard-earned learnings from her own experience. To advance her knowledge, Gita puts a lot of her time and effort into understanding the broad spectrum of women’s health. She immerses in extensive research about the physical, mental and emotional aspects of menopause. Gita believes in the life-changing power of healthy, holistic living — this is where she anchors her message to all women. Learn more about her marvelous mission in About us - My Menopause Journey.