Phytotherapy in the Treatment to Reduce Hair Loss Due to Stress and Anxiety
Part II: Valerian, Passionflower and Lemon balm
Valerian (Valerian officinalis)
Valerian is one of the most ideal plants for anyone undergoing periods of stress as it helps to relax the nervous system. The active part of this plant is constituted only by its roots. It contains a series of essential oils for the treatment of stress, nervousness, and anxiety with sedative and relaxing effects.
Valerian officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. It has a long history of use as a herbal remedy for various ailments, including mood disorders and anxiety. This post examines the pharmacological properties of Valerian officinalis, focusing on its potential benefits for mood enhancement and anxiety reduction.
Pharmacological Properties:
Valerian officinalis contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including valerenic acid, valerianol, and various volatile oils. These compounds are believed to exert anxiolytic and sedative effects by modulating neurotransmitter activity in the central nervous system, particularly enhancing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transmission. Additionally, Valerian officinalis demonstrates antioxidant properties, which may contribute to its neuroprotective effects.
Potential Benefits for Mood Enhancement and Anxiety Reduction:
Numerous preclinical and clinical studies have explored the effects of Valerian officinalis on mood and anxiety. There is evidence to suggest that Valerian officinalis supplementation may lead to improvements in mood, decreased anxiety symptoms, and enhanced sleep quality in certain populations. Its pharmacological properties, including anxiolytic and sedative effects, suggest potential utility in managing mood disorders and anxiety-related symptoms. However, your doctor’s opinion is warranted for the correct optimal dosage and administration to achieve these effects.
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)
Passionflower, also known as Passiflora incarnata, is another herb with a history of use for its potential calming and sedative effects. It’s native to the southeastern United States but is also found in parts of Central and South America. However, due to its popularity and cultivation, passionflower is now grown in various regions around the world with suitable climates.
One of the most used plants to maintain mental activity during periods of stress is Passionflower. Unlike Valerian, the properties of Passionflower’s aerial parts are in the stems, leaves, and flowers. Passionflower shares similar therapeutic indications with Valerian.
Passionflower, pharmacological properties:
- Anxiolytic: Passionflower is renowned for its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. It contains compounds that interact with neurotransmitters in the brain, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.
- Sedative: Passionflower exhibits sedative properties, making it effective in promoting calmness and aiding in sleep. It can help alleviate insomnia and improve sleep quality without causing grogginess the next day.
- Antidepressant: Some studies suggest that passionflower may have antidepressant effects, possibly due to its ability to regulate neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation, such as serotonin and dopamine.
- Muscle Relaxant: Passionflower has mild muscle-relaxing properties, making it useful for relieving tension headaches, muscle spasms, and general muscle tension.
- Hypotensive: Passionflower may help lower blood pressure by promoting relaxation of blood vessels and reducing stress-related hypertension.
- Anti-inflammatory: Passionflower has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and asthma.
Overall, Passionflower is valued for its calming and therapeutic effects on the nervous system, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking natural remedies for anxiety, insomnia, and stress-related conditions.
Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis)
Lemon balm, scientifically known as Melissa officinalis, is an herb renowned for its calming properties. It contains compounds such as rosmarinic acid and flavonoids that have been studied for their potential to reduce stress and anxiety.
Research suggests that lemon balm may act on neurotransmitter systems in the brain, such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which plays a crucial role in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Additionally, lemon balm has been shown to have mild sedative effects, further aiding in stress reduction.
Lemon balm possesses adaptogenic properties, meaning it can help the body adapt to and cope with stressors more effectively. This may involve regulating stress hormone levels, such as cortisol, and supporting overall resilience to stress.
Moreover, lemon balm is often used in aromatherapy due to its pleasant scent, which is believed to have mood-lifting effects and promote relaxation when inhaled. These combined properties make lemon balm a popular choice in addressing stress and anxiety, both in traditional herbal medicine and contemporary research-backed approaches.
Overall, incorporating lemon balm into one’s routine may offer a natural and effective approach to stress management.
Lemon Balm, pharmacological properties:
- Anxiolytic (Anti-anxiety) Effects: Lemon balm has been studied for its potential to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It is believed to act on the central nervous system, possibly through its interactions with GABA receptors, which are involved in anxiety regulation.
- Antidepressant Effects: Some research suggests that lemon balm may possess antidepressant properties. It may help modulate neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in mood regulation.
- Cognitive Enhancement: Some studies suggest that lemon balm may improve cognitive function and memory. It may exert its effects through its interactions with acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory processes.
- Mild Sedative Effects: Lemon balm has mild sedative properties, which may contribute to its ability to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Overall, lemon balm is a versatile herb with several pharmacological properties that make it a popular choice for various health concerns, including anxiety, depression and cognitive function.
As with any herbal remedy, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using lemon balm, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
