Do you want extra knowledge on hand when you browse for the right health supplement, and as you consider your long-term health? Of course you do, which is why this article is for you.
Welcome to Part 16 of our informative Healthy Living series, this time featuring subjects that begin with “V.” Here, we briefly examine the powerful benefits of the herbal product valerian, and then look at the most essential products for overcoming a viral infection. This is a particularly useful read heading into the fall season.
Natural Remedy: Valerian
Valerian (nomenclature: Valerian officinalis) is a plant that is native to Europe and Asia, and it is also naturalized within the United States. It has a long history of use that dates back to Greco-Roman times, primarily as a natural sedative. Valerian (brand name Valerin at Wonder Labs) has been studied and touted in modern natural medicine for its various benefits relating to sleep, stress, and other health factors. It is sometimes marketed under similar or alternative names.
Supporting sleep is probably the most renowned use of this herbal supplement. As a result, valerian is most commonly taken to support sound sleep, especially in those with insomnia. Taking between 300mg-600mg of valerian daily is recommended for fostering better sleep. It could take up to four weeks to experience the ideal benefits of valerian.
Reducing stress-induced anxiety could be achieved by taking valerian (i.e., Valerin). This benefit could help those undergoing stressful medical treatments to sleep better at night. Research shows valerian could also soothe symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder, and assist children struggling with hyperactivity and difficulty concentrating.
Easing menopause: Valerian can provide a specific benefit to aging women: easing menopause symptoms. Multiple studies show that valerian can reduce the mental and physiological symptoms of menopause. As you might figure, valerian can ease the stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances that occur during menopause. It can also help reduce recurring hot flashes.
Health Condition: Viral Infection
“Viral infection” is a broad term referring to multiple types of infection, all of which are caused by viruses. A virus, distinctly different from a bacterium, is a microscopic germ having a protein coating and a core containing genetic material (either RNA or DNA). A virus needs a host in order to live, and human cells are commonly the choice host of different viruses. Familiar viral infections, such as the common cold and the yearly flu, are usually treatable at home. Other types of viruses target the respiratory system or the digestive system, and these can necessitate medical treatment. There are standard medications and treatments for most viruses. Certain supplements have the general ability to combat viruses and mitigate viral infections.
Vitamin D is a crucial vitamin with many roles. This includes the production of proteins that kill viruses, especially those that invade and affect the respiratory tract. Viral respiratory tract infections are some of the most common. Large-scale studies show that remedying a deficiency in vitamin D with daily supplementation significantly reduces the risk of contracting a viral respiratory infection. Even if you are not deficient, a vitamin D supplement is helpful. Consuming at least 2500mg of vitamin D each day is recommended for this preventative purpose.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is an amino acid that produces a strong antiviral effect when it is metabolized. This is primarily because of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms it carries out in the body. As a result, it can reduce the mucus production and symptoms which result from viral respiratory infection. Some studies show that NAC mitigates the replication of the flu virus. These make NAC a strong candidate for preventing and treating a viral infection.
Vitamin C has been proven to be a key vitamin to speed up recovery from viral infections. One main reason for this is that vitamin C supports the immune system’s production of leukocytes, which are white blood cells that fight infections. Taking high doses of vitamin C at the onset of an infection can reduce the length and severity of symptoms.
When it comes to your health, knowledge is power. Now, you know that valerian (Valerin) is a natural and effective calming aid. And, you see that these two vitamins and NAC are three prime supplements for mitigating viral infections. Talk to your doctor before trying any supplement for the first time.