What is Valerian?

Valerian root extract is available as a supplement in capsule or liquid form. It can also be consumed as a tea. Valerian has been used as a medicinal herb since the times of ancient Greece and Rome.

What are the benefits of valerian?

Hippocrates described its sleep- promoting properties, and it was later prescribed as a remedy for insomnia. Interestingly, the name “valerian” is derived from the Latin verb valere, which means “to be strong” or “to be healthy”. Valerian root extract is available as a supplement in capsule or liquid form. It can also be consumed as a tea.

Other Names: Garden Valerian, Garden Heliotrope

Origin: Native to Europe and parts of Asia

Insomnia

Valerian seems to act like a sedative on the brain and nervous system. Valerian can also help improve sleep when combined with other herbs, including hops, passionflower and lemon balm.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that sends chemical messages through the brain and nervous system. The role of this neurotransmitter is to inhibit or reduce the activity of neurons (nerve cells). Valerenic acid has been found to inhibit the breakdown of GABA in the brain, to produce feelings of calmness and tranquility. Thus, it has been shown to increase GABA levels in the brain which can reduce the amount of time taken to fall asleep, it can also improve the quality of sleep. This is the mechanism by which anti-anxiety medications such as Valium work. Valerian root also contains the antioxidants hesperidin and linarin, which appear to have sedative and sleep-enhancing properties [i] [ii].

Anxiety and psychological stress

The aforementioned mechanism on GABA also helps to calm anxiety via the regulation of nerve cells. Research suggests that valerian root may help ease anxious feelings that occur in response to psychological stress [iii] [iv].

Pain relief and muscle relaxant, menstrual pain

Naturally a sedative and an antispasmodic, Valerian root acts as a powerful muscle relaxant. Valerian appears to work directly on the nervous system as a natural pain reliever [v]. Early research shows that taking 255 mg of valerian three times daily for two menstrual cycles reduces pain and the need for other pain relievers during menstruation [vi].

Typical use of valerian

Tincture: 2-4mls up to 3 times per day. or before bed, or as recommended by a herbal practitioner.

Valerian Root Tea: 1-2 tsp of cut herb root to one cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes then enjoy before bedtime.

Precautions

Do not exceed recommended doses and always check the advice as per the product packaging.

Pregnancy or breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information to know if valerian is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Please stay cautious and avoid use.

Interactions

Valerian can enhance the sedative effects of drugs like benzodiazepines and alcohol, potentially leading to excessive drowsiness. Valerian may also interact with anticoagulant medications and affect the effectiveness of drugs metabolised by the liver. Please seek medical advice before combining valerian with medications to ensure safety and effectiveness.

A note on surgery

Anesthesia and other medications used during surgery also affect the central nervous system. Therefore, the combined effects might be harmful. It is advisable to stop taking valerian at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.