What happens when you consume valerian root for a long time? Can it lead to addiction? This article outlines the benefits of valerian root, potential risks, and how to use it. Read on.
What Is Valerian Root?
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a perennial plant native to Europe and Asia, and also grows in North America. Its roots are sold as a dietary supplement in the US (1). It has a strong earthy odor while its flowers have a mild scent. Valerian root extracts are also used in personal care products, cosmetics, aromatherapy, and veterinary practices. It was also used in perfumes in the 16th century. However, it is majorly used to minimize insomnia (sleeplessness) (2). Let us understand how valerian root works. Keep scrolling.
How Does Valerian Root Work?
Valerian root works similar to Xanax (alprazolam), where it inhibits the breakdown of GABA (gamma-Aminobutyric acid) in the brain. This promotes calmness and sleep. Active constituents in valerian root — valeric acid and valerian extract — exert this action. A study suggests that valeric acid and valerian extract act by binding to the GABA-A receptors (receptors that respond when GABA is released). Both the agents enhance the response to GABA and show a significant sedative action (3),(4). The benefits of valerian root are not just limited to promoting sleep quality. Keep scrolling to learn about all of its benefits.
Major Benefits Of Valerian Root
1. May Help With Better Sleep
Sleep plays a major role in many bodily functions (5). Hence, chronic insomnia can impact one’s overall health and well-being. Studies show that herbal medicines like valerian root may be effective in promoting sleep and preventing related disorders (6).
2. May Help Treat PMS
Premenstrual syndrome is associated with a few other health complications. Valerian root extract may reduce the emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. The regimen can be beneficial if started on the 21st day of the menstrual cycle and continued for seven days (7).
3. May Help Alleviate Menstrual Problems
Research suggests that the antispasmodic effects (ability to suppress muscle contractions) of valerian may help reduce menstrual pain. It may also reduce the need for other pain relievers if taken three times a day for two cycles (8).
4. May Help In The Treatment Of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. Its major contributor seems to be oxidative stress. Studies suggest that valerian shows promise in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease by decreasing oxidative stress (9).
5. May Help Treat Anxiety Disorder
Valerian is found to help reduce anxiety. Its extract contains valerenic acid that is known to exert its anxiolytic (anxiety-relieving) action on GABA-A receptors. GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, whose deficit leads to anxiety (9). Though valerian root offers important benefits, it also may pose certain potential risks. Keep scrolling to know more.
Possible Risks And Side Effects Of Valerian Root
The side effects of valerian root or its extracts are based on anecdotal evidence. These include:
Headache
Valerian roots are used for relieving headaches. On the contrary, consuming valerian root is reported to aggravate headaches in sensitive individuals. These headaches were observed to be severe in the morning. This effect is mostly associated with the herb’s long-term intake.
Dizziness
Imprudent use of valerian root may make one sleepy or drowsy. Sleepiness, mood swings, and increased drowsiness may occur with the intake of high doses of valerian root.
Stomach Pain
Excess intake of valerian root is also associated with stomach pain. The pain may also be accompanied by mild digestive problems like constipation or diarrhea. Diarrhea or stomach upset occurs mainly due to the laxative effect (emptying of bowels) of the valerian root. Note: All these side effects are usually mild and subside gradually after one discontinues the use of valerian. Consult a doctor if you experience severe side effects. You should follow certain special precautions while consuming valerian root. These may help reduce the risk of side effects.
Special Precautions And Warnings
Make sure you are not allergic to the active constituents in valerian root like valeric acid and valerian. Do not consume if you are taking other sedative medications. Do not consume alcohol if you are using valerian roots or supplements. Valerian’s safety in pregnant women and lactating mothers is not established yet. Better to avoid its consumption. Do not administer valerian to children. Consult a doctor before consuming valerian root if you have liver disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Do not consume valerian for extended periods as it can be addictive. Do not operate machinery or drive after valerian intake.
The valerian root, if used properly, can offer lasting results. The following tips can help you maximize its benefits.
How To Take Valerian Root To Maximize Benefits?
Do not consume valerian root in large amounts. Moderate consumption is the key to maximum benefits. Fresh valerian root may have enhanced benefits. Valerian root comes in various forms. Always go through the packaging of the product and follow the guidelines specified. You can consume valerian root as a supplement with your regular medicines. However, speak to your doctor before doing so. Use valerian only as necessary. Stop taking it once you see the desired result as it may be addictive. Stop its use if you see no improvement even after 2 weeks. Consult your doctor.
To Conclude
Which is better, melatonin or valerian root? Melatonin is considered a better option over valerian root because it exists within the body and offers rest in a more natural way. In addition, there is less chance of adverse effects. Can valerian root stop panic attacks? From one small study, the intake of valerian capsules that contains 530 mg of dried valerian root one hour before bedtime for one month helps prevent anxiety or panic attacks (10). Does valerian root slow your heart rate? Many anecdotal evidence suggests that valerian root is effective in maintaining blood pressure and heart rate in people after the surgery. However, limited data is available to prove these claims. Can you withdraw from valerian root? Valerian root doesn’t cause any withdrawal symptoms. However, it may cause a few, when it is used for long periods. Is 1000 mg valerian root too much? No. Doses higher than 1060 mg are generally considered too much valerian root. Does valerian root affect hormones? Valerian root is a phytoestrogenic herb that contains many volatile oils and phytoestrogens are estrogen-like complexes with estrogenic and anti-estrogenic properties (11). In addition, this can be effective in the treatment of hot flashes in menopausal women. Is valerian root a benzodiazepine? Valerian root has a mechanism of action similar to that of benzodiazepine. Is valerian root good for adrenal fatigue? Many anecdotal studies suggest that the intake of valerian root helps improve adrenal fatigue conditions. However, limited data is available to prove this claim. Does valerian root increase dopamine? Valerian root is believed to increase dopamine levels but there is no data available to prove this claim.
