Valerian
Updated Oct. 13th, 2017
Valerian has been used traditionally for many years as a sedative and alleviator of anxiety. It has many benefits over the use of pharmaceutical sedatives and sleep aids. Valerian does not alter the brain waves that occur as a part of normal sleep patterns. Therefore the sleep that you get after taking valerian is just as restful as normal sleep.
Additionally valerian does not give you a “hangover” the morning after you use it. Valerian’s chemical components, the valepotriates, valerianic acids and pungent oils, relax the central nervous system by binding to the same receptors that are used by sedative medications. They also relax the gastrointestinal tract and skeletal muscles. Valerian can be used for restless leg syndrome and muscle spasms. It can also be used for stress and tension associated with PMS.
Dried valerian root can be made into a tea. Valerian can also be purchased in capsules or as a tincture. Water-soluble extracts of valerian contain more active ingredients than dried or alcohol-based formulas. Valerian may be found in formulas for relaxing the mind and body.
Due to valerian’s sedating action it may increase the effect of some anti-anxiety, anti-depression, anti-histamine, sleep inducing medications. Do not use valerian when performing activities that require alertness. Children can be harmed by some components of valerian including the valepotriates and baldrinal. Never give valerian to children under the age of three.
Thank you for this interesting article on valarian! My mother swears on valarian root for sleep, which makes sense given what you discuss about components of valerian including the valepotriates and baldrinal which can help to relieve anxiety. Interestingly, valarian has the opposite effect on me: it raises anxiety. Additionally, valarian causes me extreme thirst, heart palipitations and a need to urinate. I am so curious why this is!!! If you could add a list of valarian side effects/impacted organ symptoms that would be great! Maybe then I could figure out why I react so poorly to it
Hello Rachel,
Thank you for your comment and mentioning how valerian affects you, those are indeed side effects that may be experienced when taking valerian. Many known side effects include, headache, stomach upset, mental dullness, excitability, uneasiness, heart disturbances, and even insomnia. Therefore, you shouldn't worry; however this may not be a supplement that's compatible with you or with other supplements or medications you are taking. Perhaps speak with your health care provider to see if there's any contraindications among what you're taking and for a suggestion that would help with feelings of anxiety if you experience those feelings or insomnia due to those feelings. You can read this article about insomnia to see other suggestions for a restful nights sleep. Many find success with magnesium. https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/insomnia/
Have a healthy day.