It owes its sedative action to powerful active compounds.
Difficulties in falling asleep, night awakenings or non -restorative sleep: insomnia affects many people and can quickly impact the quality of daily life. Fortunately, natural solutions exist. Among them, a plant with sedative virtues facilitates falling asleep and promises a restorative night. “Several studies, notably that published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine have shown that it improves sleep quality by reducing sleep time and prolonging the deep sleep phases”immediately underlines Élodie Kadima, sophrologist and member of the Medoucine network.
This plant owes its sedative action to powerful active compounds. “It contains valépotriates, valued acids and flavonoids which act directly on the central nervous system”she continues. These substances stimulate the production of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that reduces the excitability of neurons and promotes a state of relaxation conducive to falling asleep.
You may have recognized it, it is Valerian, an ancestral plant recognized for its soothing virtues. To fully enjoy its effects, the sophrologist recommends consuming it in infusion about 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. “The active compounds reach their maximum concentration in the body after 30 to 60 minutes. It is therefore important to respect this timing to optimize its relaxing action”she says. For a reinforced effect, Valerian can be associated with other plants with relaxing virtues: “She gets married very well with passiflore, linden or lemon balm for soothing synergy and even deeper sleep”recommends the sophrologist.
If Valerian is generally well tolerated, some precautions are essential. “In high doses, it can cause diurnal drowsiness, headache or digestive disorders in some people”warns Élodie Kadima. It also advises against its use in pregnant women, children under 12 and people with liver disease or taking sedative medicines. “It is always preferable to request the advice of a healthcare professional before using it in addition to medical treatment.”
