Maria Treben believes that many sleep disturbances, heart issues, and digestive system problems originate from chronic nervous tension. To calm the nervous system and ensure a peaceful sleep, she recommends a herbal mixture with sedative and balancing effects, prepared as a tea.
What Maria Treben Said:
Valerian calms the nerves, St. John’s Wort eases the soul, and Hypericum drives away sadness. This tea is a reliable aid on restless nights.
Maria Treben
Calming Recipe Recommended by Maria Treben
Herbal mixture (in equal parts):
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Valerian (root)
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St. John’s Wort (leaves)
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Hypericum (flowering plant)
Preparation:
Mix the herbs in equal parts and store them in an airtight glass container.
Usage:
Take 1 tablespoon of the mixture and pour over 250 ml of boiling water.
Let it steep for 10-12 minutes, then strain.
Administration:
Drink 1 cup in the evening, 30-60 minutes before bedtime.
In cases of heightened anxiety, 2 cups per day can be consumed, in the morning and evening.
Benefits
Valerian:
- Contains valerenic acid and iridoids with sedative, anxiolytic, and relaxing effects.
- Reduces the excitability of the central nervous system and helps with the onset of natural sleep.
- Does not cause dependence if used correctly.
St. John’s Wort:
- Calms palpitations, nervous agitation, and feelings of fear without reason.
- Supports the digestive system in stressful situations and reduces nervous bloating.
Hypericum:
- Known for its natural antidepressant effect, it balances serotonin secretion.
- Recommended in cases of anxiety, melancholy, and mood disorders.
What Do Modern Studies Say?
- Cochrane Database showed that valerian significantly reduces the time needed to fall asleep compared to placebo.
- Journal of Psychopharmacology supports the effectiveness of St. John’s Wort in mild to moderate depression, without the side effects of traditional antidepressants.
- Clinical studies have confirmed that St. John’s Wort improves memory, reduces agitation, and has calming effects in anxiety and insomnia.
Contraindications
- St. John’s Wort interacts with numerous medications (antidepressants, contraceptives, anticoagulants) so consult a doctor if undergoing treatment.
- It is not recommended to combine this tea with sleeping pills or synthetic sedatives.
- Contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical consultation.
- Valerian should not be consumed for very long periods without breaks (maximum 3-4 consecutive weeks, followed by a break).
Sources:
- Maria Treben: Health from the Pharmacy of the Lord
- Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Valerian for insomnia
- Journal of Psychopharmacology, Hypericum perforatum in mild to moderate depression
- Phytomedicine, Melissa officinalis in anxiety and cognitive performance
