TRADE NAME: Valerian Root
OFFICIAL NAME: Valeriana officinalis
TYPE OF SUPPLEMENT: Sleep aid
WHAT IT IS: A flowering perennial, the name Valerian translates into ‘to be strong or healthy’ in Latin, and the plant it self is native to South Africa, Europe, and parts of Asia. The root is made into a supplement and is the part used for herbal medication. It is generally used for its sedative properties and currently used to treat insomnia.
HOW IT WORKS: In vitro, Valerian Root has been shown to moderate GABA receptors. The active ingredient is unknown, and might occur as a combination of the entire root.
PRIMARY AFFECTS: Valerian root is used as a sleeping aid which prevents morning fogginess and is non-addictive. It has also been used for relieving menstrual cramps, stomach aches, stress and anxiety, restlessness, irritable bowel syndrome, and migraines. In 2006, a meta-analysis review of all studies to date on Valerian root indicated Valerian may improve sleep quality without side effects.
EFFECTIVE DOSAGE LEVEL: Valerian Root should not be consumed for over 2 weeks. If taking capsules, 1 or 2 should be taken an hour before bed time, or twice a day with meals, depending on why it’s being taken.
SUPPLEMENT CONFLICTS: Valerian Root should not be taken if also using any forms of sedatives, anesthesia, or anti-anxiety medication without consulting healthcare personnel. It should also not be taken in combination with Skullcap (another anxiety herb) if a liver disease is present.
SIDE EFFECTS: Due to its sedative effects, Valerian Root should not be taken while driving or operating heavy machinery, and should not be used by pregnant or breast feeding women. Some people have reported headaches and mild cases of nausea. Some people have experienced reversed effects, feeling sudden anxiety, restlessness, nervousness, and heart palpitations. In some cases of long term use, some people have experienced serious withdrawal when abruptly discontinuing use, but usually only occurs when the root is not taken as directed.
