Valerian and passionflower—we've all heard of these plants, but what exactly are their benefits? We often forget that there are natural remedies to help us in our daily lives. The same is true for our animals, especially those who are anxious, fearful, or hyperactive. Among all the natural products available, valerian and passionflower have been used for millennia for their relaxing, anxiolytic, and even sedative properties. They are known to help both humans and pets improve their well-being. We'll tell you everything you need to know about these plants and how to use them.
How can you tell if your dog needs to relax?
Before giving your dog any dietary supplements, it's best to have a check-up with your veterinarian. This will help rule out any potential health problems. It's important to assess your dog's emotional state. Chronic anxiety or fear, just like in humans, will tire the animal. If it becomes chronic, it's considered a medical condition.
Anxiety is an emotional disorder that manifests in dogs and cats as a general feeling of insecurity. The animal will then be apprehensive about many situations, may feel uneasy, and be more tense and reactive in its daily life.
These emotional disturbances should not be ignored, as they are difficult for the animal to cope with. To determine if your pet is experiencing anxiety, phobias, or hyperactivity, you can observe its symptoms.
Symptoms of stress in dogs
- The animal becomes anxious in the face of trivial life events;
- The dog has difficulty adapting to life changes (moving, traveling , etc.);
- the animal suffers to the point of self-mutilation, creating lick wounds on its paws, lower back, and/or tail;
- He loses his appetite and loses weight;
- The dog seems depressed, hides, and tries to avoid you or a normal everyday situation;
- He tends to avoid certain situations to the point of putting himself in danger;
- Your furry friend has sleep problems, insomnia;
- He scratches himself constantly even though he is not infested with parasites;
- He is aggressive.
All these clues can therefore reveal your dog's emotional state.
Valerian, a relaxing plant
Valerian is a plant used for millennia for its sedative and relaxing properties. In recent years, science has shown that it relieves some of the nervousness and anxiety in both humans and animals. It can also help soothe the individual to the point of aiding sleep. It is therefore highly recommended for sleep disorders.Valerian is a remedy that soothes the nervous system. This plant helps lower nervous tension. The active ingredients, including valerenic acid , which inhibits the transmission of information in certain neurons, are found in the plant's root. It thus helps reduce anxiety . It also helps relax muscles, calm nerves, and contributes to better sleep.
The benefits of passionflower
Passionflower was used by the Aztecs in cooking and to treat ailments such as anxiety and heart problems. Some scientific committees have recognized that the passionflower plant can alleviate numerous problems, including:
- anxiety
- neuralgia pain
- muscle pain and spasms
- digestive problems
- sleep disorders
Passionflower is often used in conjunction with valerian. These two plants work synergistically and complement each other extremely well.
Are there health risks?
Valerian and passionflower are safe when the supplement dosage is followed. Some manufacturers have reported rare cases of hypersensitivity and inflammation of the blood vessels if these plants are given undiluted. Regarding BF Petfood products containing valerian and passionflower, all animals of any age can consume them as long as the recommended dosage is followed.
Where can I find valerian and passionflower?
Valerian and passionflower are available dried in their original form, or in capsules. They can also be incorporated into dietary supplements. It is in this latter form that these two plants are easiest to use and dose.
Valerian and passionflower are among the ingredients in the RELAX Biofood-BF Petfood range. The Relax food supplement is suitable for both dogs and cats, while the biscuits are specifically for dogs.
The tablets and biscuits come in a delicious treat-like form, making them easier for both dogs and cats to take. However, if your pet is a picky eater, you can crush the tablet into a powder and sprinkle it on their kibble or mix it into wet food. Don't hesitate to give them at the first signs of anxiety or to help prevent stressful situations such as moving house, the arrival of a new family member, a change in diet, and many others. Relax supplements can also be helpful during training sessions or socialization.
