Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a herb native to Europe and parts of Asia. Valerian root has a long history of use as a sedative. Valerian root is also potent for anxiety, stress, and many other conditions, including sleep disorders, especially insomnia.
How Does Valerian Root Work?
Scientists are not exactly sure how valerian works in the body. However, research suggests its activity is related to the independent and synergistic actions of compounds found in the plant including; valepotriates, monoterpenes, lignans, flavonoids, and low levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
GABA is a chemical messenger that helps regulate nerve impulses in your nervous system. Valerenic acid and valerenol can modulate GABA receptors and increase the amount of GABA available in the central nervous system. Compounds in valerian may also interact with receptors for serotonin and adenosine, chemicals that play important roles in the regulation of sleep and mood.
What Are Some Health Benefits of Valerian Root?
Modern studies have been able to show that valerian root benefits people with anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, menstrual symptoms, and menopause. It can also help you combat everyday stress, balance hormones, and improve your quality of sleep.
Insomnia: Valerian root is often used in herbal blends that promote sleep, such as chamomile, hops, lemon balm, and passion flower. Valerian has muscle relaxant effects that can help release tension in your body. Meanwhile, its anti-anxiety benefits help your mind release tension and ease into sleep.
Anxiety symptoms: Because of its calming properties, people may take valerian root supplements to reduce stress and anxiety.
Depression: One small study showed that valerian root may be able to improve symptoms of depression as well. Among people undergoing dialysis, those who took a valerian root supplement had significant reductions in depression.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and Menopausal symptoms: People who experience PMS or painful menstruation may benefit from valerian. A study found that it improved physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms of PMS. Valerian may help reduce hot flashes in menopausal and postmenopausal people.
Headaches: Tension headaches develop when head and neck muscles contract in response to stress, anxiety, injuries, or depression. Researchers think that because valerian has pain-relieving and anti-stress effects, it may ease tension headaches.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS): A study of 37 people with restless leg syndrome (RLS) found that valerian significantly improved RLS symptoms and decreased daytime sleepiness.
What Are the Side Effects?
Most clinical studies have shown that the herb is well-tolerated and safe for short-term use. Side effects of valerian root, if any, tend to be mild and may include: headache, dizziness, itchy skin, and gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort.
What Are Some Drug Interactions?
Valerian root may interact with various medications, foods, and supplements. Valerian root interactions are not well-documented, but the herb is believed to potentially interact with:
· Benzodiazepines, such as Alprazolam, Diazepam, and Lorazepam
· Barbiturates, phenobarbital, morphine, and propofol
· Melatonin
How To Take Valerian Root
Valerian root supplements do not have well-established dosages. This is due to a lack of high-quality human research. Many valerian root capsules and tablets are in doses ranging from 300 to 600 milligrams (mg). In some studies, however, people have taken as much as 900 mg of valerian root extract without major side effects.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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