List of Herbal Relaxants
- In order of effectiveness. And remember that I only write about what I know from personal experience.
- Valerian root
- Hops
- Catnip
- Chamomile
All of these can be used fresh or dried, chewed or brewed. They are also available in tinctures and tablets. The choice is a matter of personal preference, but I prefer my herbs fresh whenever possible. Drying dissipates the volatile oils and so do storage and heat, reducing the effectiveness of the herb.
As with so many herbal remedies, the taste of most relaxants is pleasant to the people who were introduced to them as infants and unpleasant to those who did not taste them until later in life. The best example is valerian root. It is a delicacy to the initiated and totally unpalatable to others. It is good to get infants introduced to various flavors early in life to prevent taste prejudice later.
The Question of Addiction
- People have mentioned that some of these relaxants may be addictive. I have never seen any evidence of that. Certainly, everyone in my family has loved the taste of valerian root since early childhood, but none of us have a problem staying away from it. I effortlessly abstained from it for 15 years simply because I did not want to waste my money on an expensive remedy which no longer worked for me. I therefore hav no reason to believe it to be addictive. Let's say it is no more addictive than candy is to a person with a sweet tooth.
Dusty is upset with me. She figures that she knows more about catnip than I do, so what am I doing writing about it. And what am I doing publishing a poem about one of the previous owners of her garden!
Cat Lover versus Dog Lover Poll
Related Articles
- Cats in Kids' Gardens
- This article was written by Dusty the Garden Cat especially for children.
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