Valerian, also known as Valeriana officinalis, is a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. The root of the plant has long been used as a herbal remedy to treat insomnia.
The use of Valerian root dates back to the Greek and Roman Empires and was noted by Hippocrates to treat headaches, nervousness, trembling, and heart palpitations.
Valerian contains a substance known as valerenic acid that is believed to affect gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain. It is believed that one of the purposes of GABA is to control fear or anxiety experienced when nerve cells are overexcited. By doing so, Valerian may act as a mild sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing drug).
What is passionflower?
There are about 500 known species of passionflower. This family of plants is also known as Passiflora. Studies suggest that certain species have medicinal benefits. For example, Passiflora incarnata may help treat anxiety and insomnia.
In Europe, people have used P. incarnata to treat restlessness and agitation. And some people use it to treat anxiety. The fruit is also used to flavor certain beverages.
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