What is Valerian.

Valerian is a perennially growing plant found growing in Europe and some parts of Asia and introduced in Northern America. Its flowers are sweetly scented and are whitish or pink in color which bloom in the summer months. It is used as a over the counter natural sleep aid which helps to sleep and is used mainly to treat insomnia.

Picture of Valerian plant with flowers.

Valerian Extract.

A greenish brown powder which has an unpleasant odor is prepared from the dried roots of the valerian root. The main constituent of the valerian extract prepared from its root is a yellowish oil which has a sedative effect.

Valerian Preparations.

Valerian, the herb supplement is prepared from the root of the plant. It is available as valerian tablets, valerian capsules, valerian tea and tincture. Valerian tea should not be prepared in boiling water as this will destroy the oils in the valerian extract. Valerian supplements are available over the counter and do not need a prescription.

Uses and Benefits of Valerian.

Uses of valerian to treat certain disorders does not have much scientific evidence but it has proved effective in some cases. Use of valerian benefits to treat the following conditions:

• Sleep disorders and more commonly to cure insomnia.
• Anxiety and emotional stress.
• Hysteria
• Headaches  and migraine
• Stomach upset
• Mild tremors
• Hypochondria (fear of illness).
• Depression
• Epilepsy
• ADHD  (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).
• Fatigue of chronic nature
• Muscle and joint pain
• Menstrual cramps
• Symptoms of menopause such as hot flushes and anxiety.
• Oil made from valerian is used to add flavor to food and beverages.

Mechanism of Action.

Valerian has a sedative action on the brain and the nervous system.

Side Effects of Valerian.

Valerian has shown the following adverse effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Pruritus (itching)
• Stomach upset.
• Liver damage.

Safety of Valerian.

Clinical studies report that Valerian is considered quite safe for use even in children for up to 4 to 8 weeks. Valerian should not be taken for more than six months as long term safety is not yet established  One should  not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking valerian.

Contraindications of Valerian.

Valerian should not be taken

• If you are pregnant or breast-feeding as its safety is not yet established for such conditions
• Two weeks before any surgery because valerian slows down the nervous system and this combined with anesthesia can have serious complications.
• Persons with liver damage.
• Children under 3 years of age.
• Before driving or operating machinery.

Drug Interactions with Valerian.

Valerian can cause undesired effects when taken with the following medicines. Always talk to your doctor about your medical history before taking valerian.

• Valerian if taken with or after consuming alcohol can cause excessive sleepiness and drowsiness because of the synergistic action of the two.
• With sedatives such as benzodiazepines, valerian can increase drowsiness
• With CNS depressants such as Phenobarbital, thiopental, morphine and others.
• Alprazolam (Xanax) metabolism by the liver is slowed down when taken with valerian. Combination of both these medicines can increase drowsiness. Xanax is used to treat anxiety and panic attacks.

Dosage of Valerian.

For insomnia, Valerian is advised to be taken about 30 minutes to 2 hours before going to bed. It is advised in the following doses depending on the severity.

• 400 to 900 mg before bedtime for one month.
• 120 mg with lemon balm extract 80 mg thrice a day for one month.

Related posts:

1. Melatonin for Sleep – Uses, Side Effects and Contraindications.
2. Over The Counter and Natural Sleep Aids to Help You Sleep.
3. Alternative Treatments and Herbal Remedies for Depression.
4. Sleep Aids To Help You Sleep.