Valerian Root Side Effects and Safety Warnings

Valerian root has been harvested, dried and prepared as a herbal remedy for thousands of years by cultures around the world.

It is most commonly taken to improve poor sleep quality and treat insomnia.

It is associated with reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and has also been used for chronic fatigue, menopause, epilepsy, and other nervous system disorders.

When taken properly, Valerian root side effects are few and far between, but there can be negative interactions and adverse reactions in certain cases.

Before using this supplement, it is important to educate yourself regarding the safety of Valerian herbal supplements and the correct way to use them.

Valerian Root

Herbal Supplement

Calmness

Mood

Sleep Onset

How It Works:

• Helps alleviate stress & anxiety
• Promotes better sleep & daytime alertness
• Boosts relaxation by enhancing GABA signalling

Dosage:

Between 300 - 900 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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What Does Valerian Root Do?

The National Institutes of Health’s, Office of Dietary Supplements states that as an herbal supplement, valerian offers a mild sedative effect for individuals dealing with sleep difficulties, insomnia, and tension.

Research is still underway regarding the mechanisms of action of Valerian for such conditions.

Useful components of the Valerian plant include the roots, horizontal stem segments and – to a lesser degree – the leaves.

In historical cases, the dried root of the Valerian plant was prepared into a tincture or tea. Today, the extracts from the dried plant roots are often formulated into capsules, pills, or tablets.

The mechanism of action for Valerian root involves interactions between the many phytochemicals found within the plant. Valerian root is often combined with other botanical ingredients such as hops for greater efficacy.

One study involved a combination of 400 mg of aqueous Valerian extract combined with 30 mg of hops. Results found that this combination enhanced the ability of some of the test subjects to fall asleep, as well as enhanced sleep quality and reduced the number of times they awoke at night.

Consumers should be aware that no large-scale human clinical studies or trials have specifically determined the level of efficacy that Valerian root can have for various conditions. Results are still considered inconclusive at this time.

However, tens of thousands of people around the world swear by its benefits for sleep and mood disorder– and the use of Valerian dates back to the time of Hippocrates and ancient Greece.

Valerian Root Side Effects

Valerian root has been used in numerous cultures around the world for centuries, lending credence to the tolerable nature of this herbal remedy. To reduce the chance of side effects, take Valerian as directed by your doctor, herbal practitioner, or pharmacist.

When using Valerian root capsules, pills, or tablets, side effects such as upset stomach and digestive discomfort can occur. Some individuals may find the use of Valerian tea or liquid tinctures as easier to tolerate and less likely to cause stomach issues.

When taken correctly, Valerian root side effects are generally mild and rare. However, there is a small chance of developing an allergic reaction. Watch for any signs of serious allergic reaction known as anaphylactic shock which may include the presence of hives, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, often accompanied by difficulty breathing. This is an emergency situation and requires immediate medical attention

Reduce the risk of side effects by using Valerian short-term, meaning no longer than a three to six months at a time. When using high doses as a sleep aid, some experts suggest that it should not be taken for more than 30 days.

Some of the more commonly reported side effects include upset stomach, headache, dry mouth, and at times, drowsiness. Some people taking Valerian root may feel a strange sense of anxiety or unease, while others may experience odd dream sequences.

Who should not Take Valerian Root?

As with many other over-the-counter or natural herbal remedies, there are some situations where people should avoid taking any form of Valerian.

Women who are pregnant or nursing should always talk to their doctor or obstetrician regarding the safety of over-the-counter supplements and herbal products before using them.

There have been no studies examining the effects of Valerian Root on pregnant or breast-feeding women and it is therefore recommended to avoid this herb out of caution.

Do not give Valerian root extracts to children without conferring with a pediatrician first. Children may be contraindicated based on the age and weight of the child as well as their health status. Dosages for children will also be much lower than those for adults and this is something which should be determined by a qualified physician.

Valerian interacts with GABA receptors in the brain, which is the same pathway activated by alcohol. To prevent over-stimulation of GABA receptors, it is advised to not use Valerian root with alcohol.

Valerian root may be contraindicated if you are already taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs for certain medical conditions. If you are being treated with prescription medication for the following conditions, avoid taking Valerian due to the risk of interactions:

• Anxiety
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol levels
• Autoimmune disorders (rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis)
• Allergies or asthma
• Migraine headaches
• Seizures
• Psychiatric disorders

This list is not all-inclusive and you should discuss any medications with your doctor before using Valerian.

Valerian root may interact with medications such as Benadryl, Cymbalta, tramadol, Xanax, and trazodone, as well as high doses of other herbs including St. John’s Wort.

Valerian root, when used properly and according to label instructions is regarded as safe. However, always talk to your doctor about Valerian root side effects and avoid situations where interactions may be present or contraindications may be indicated.

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