Valerian drops provide one of the most flexible ways of taking this popular nerve tonic supplement.
Developments have been such in recent years that there is now a broad spectrum of herbal Valerian root products available.
These products can not only be purchased in a wide variety of forms, but some are specific to both children and pets.
Although a potential drawback to Valerian drops may be due to the taste, there are many different brands of differing strengths available.
Some of these are reportedly milder and therefore more palatable than others. Equally the drops allow as much or as little to be consumed relative to the situation and individual.



- Helps alleviate stress & anxiety
- Promotes better sleep & daytime alertness
- Boosts relaxation by enhancing GABA signalling
Valerian Drops and Children
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Many parents have taken to using Valerian drops as a direct alternative to prescription medication for kids who are hyperactive.
Others find that drops reduce anxiety in children without the need for further medical or therapeutic intervention. Reports are also positive in respect of helping children achieve better quality sleep with occasional use.
Negative issues surrounding the product do not generally relate to adverse side effects. The main problem that can arise is that some children do not like either the taste or the smell. This can be overcome by trying different brands or mixing drops with fruit juice.
Valerian drops for children are available as a specifically formulated product, with lower potency. Dosages and frequency of treatment guidelines include not only the age of the child but also their weight. This allows for a more precise dosage to be administered.
It is usually recommended on the product that the drops are not given to children under 3 year of age, according to the European Scientific Cooperative of Phytotherapy. This statement is made in light of the fact that trials have not been undertaken to assess possible risks.
Types of Liquid Valerian Drops
Valerian drops can be purchased both preserved in alcohol or water. For some, the alcohol-based tinctures will not be appropriate.
The main issue for adults as well as children, is that of taste and smell. Few products containing Valerian will be aromatically attractive or pleasant to taste.
Some proprietary supplements can now be bought in combination. Valerian drops are widely available combined with hops. As with all hop supplements, the flower is the main component of such products. It also appears that the aroma and taste are preferable to that of Valerian on its own.
Another combination supplement available is that of Passion flower. This particular blend rarely produces any negative reviews.
Multiple Combinations
Liquid valerian drops are also available which contain multiple herbal extracts conducive to better quality sleep and nerve health.
Herbs utilized in such products include: Skullcap, Kava, California Poppy, Passion flower, German Chamomile and Mugwort.
Cautions are issued in respect of supplements which usually contain Kava. This supplement has been associated with possible liver issues. As such, combination products such as this usually carry instructions not to continue usage longer than 1 month.
Valerian Drops and Cats
Cats have long since been known to find the scent of Valerian attractive. The pet industry has now taken advantage of the anti-anxiety properties induced by the herb in the animal population. Supplements are available in both tablets and drops which are said to reduce anxiety and agitation in a wide variety of situations.
Traveling, anxiety complex, thunderstorms and fireworks are issues which can cause disruptions in the moods of your pet. Valerian drops appear to be particularly useful in calming agitated animals under such circumstances.
The convenience of placing a few drops of Valerian extract on pet bedding during a thunderstorm is known to relax an anxious cat. Similarly, drops can be sprinkled on bedding placed in a traveling box. This has the effect of pleasantly distracting a pet during a journey it may normally find stress.
There is also a surprising number of references to the use of Valerian and Skullcap in treating or preventing epilepsy in animals. In this scenario, both cats and dogs, who are more prone to such seizures, are positively affected. It can be used as both a preventative and restorative measure.
It seems that many veterinarians have embraced the benefits of these herbal supplements. Many are willing to direct owners in the use of these alternative medications in conjunction with prescribed anticonvulsants.
Liquid Valerian Forms and Flavors
Today there are a wide variety of Valerian supplements available and you can purchase the product in many forms suitable for your requirements. Additionally, Valerian root comes in convenient combination with other herbal supplements.
Some will find tablets meet their needs more conveniently. Others will opt for teabags and infusions. Valerian drops combine both convenience with flexibility. In many cases, the benefits are further enhanced, such as with children or pets, due to ease of administration.
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Article last updated on: May 9th, 2018 by Nootriment