Herbal Superpowers: Everyday Plants with Hidden Health Benefits

Lisette Marie

29. Valerian Root: The Sleep-Promoting Root

Dried Valerian roots in wooden spoon on sackcloth background. Valeriana officinalis, Caprifoliaceae. Photo Credit: Envato @IrynaKhabliuk

Valerian root is a time-honored herb that is known for its ability to promote relaxation and sleep. It contains compounds that interact with brain receptors to reduce anxiety and calm the nervous system. Valerian root can help to improve sleep quality, reduce the time it takes to fall asleep, and alleviate insomnia. Unlike some sleep medications, it does not cause grogginess the next morning. Valerian root is most commonly consumed as a tea or in capsule form. Incorporating it into your evening routine can help you wind down and get the restorative sleep your body needs.

30. Ashwagandha: The Grounding Adaptogen

Ashwagandha. Photo Credit: Envato @stockimagefactory

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb, a class of plants that helps the body manage and adapt to stress. Used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha works by regulating cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. A daily dose can reduce anxiety, improve mental clarity, and boost resilience to everyday pressures. It’s also known to enhance stamina and physical performance, making it a great choice for both mental and physical wellness. Typically found in powdered or capsule form, ashwagandha is a grounding addition to your routine that helps you feel calm and centered.

BACK

(15 of 22)

<div class="ads ads-1 collapse-container group-display-adsense unit-2024-desktop-rail-336x600-long zone-slideshow-desktop-rail-bottom">
<script async src="https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-6736552601239305"
     crossorigin="anonymous"></script>

<ins class="adsbygoogle"
     style="display:inline-block;width:300px;height:600px"
     data-ad-client="ca-pub-6736552601239305"
     data-ad-slot="7087745678"></ins>
<script>
     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
</script>
<script>
  addBlurHandler('sdr-bottom', function (el, zone) {
    if (cf_utm_source === 'bing') {
        uetqApi('outbound_click', {
            'event_category': 'PPC',
            'event_label': 'Adsense',
            'event_value': '1'
        });
        console.log('Fired bing.');
    }
	
	if (cf_utm_source === 'google') {
		gtag('event', 'conversion', {
			'send_to': 'AW-17008664059/yUYKCMCtl7kaEPu7rq4_',
			'value': 0.0,
			'currency': 'USD'
		});
    	console.log('Fired Google Conversion.');
	}
	
    console.log('Fired pixel.');
});
</script>
</div>

OpenAI Playground 2025-05-13 at 10.55.45.png

<div class="ads ads-1 collapse-container group-display-adsense unit-2024-desktop-rail-336x280-sticky zone-slideshow-desktop-rail-sticky">
<script async src="https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-6736552601239305"
     crossorigin="anonymous"></script>

<ins class="adsbygoogle"
     style="display:inline-block;width:300px;height:280px"
     data-ad-client="ca-pub-6736552601239305"
     data-ad-slot="9869999824"></ins>
<script>
     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
</script>
<script>
  addBlurHandler('sdr-sticky', function (el, zone) {
    if (cf_utm_source === 'bing') {
        uetqApi('outbound_click', {
            'event_category': 'PPC',
            'event_label': 'Adsense',
            'event_value': '1'
        });
        console.log('Fired bing.');
    }
	
	if (cf_utm_source === 'google') {
	  gtag('event', 'conversion', {
		'send_to': 'AW-17008664059/yUYKCMCtl7kaEPu7rq4_',
		'value': 0.0,
		'currency': 'USD'
	  });
	  console.log('Fired Google Conversion.');
  	}

console.log('Fired pixel.');
});
</script>
</div>

29. Valerian Root: The Sleep-Promoting Root

30. Ashwagandha: The Grounding Adaptogen

MORE FROM HealthPrep