Valerenic acid serum concentrations were measurable for at least 5 h after the valerian dose. One subject showed a peak plasma value at 1 h and a second peak at 5 h.
The area under the concentration time curve AUC as a measure of valerenic acid exposure was variable 4. However, most of the research on valerian focuses on its use as a sedative, antioxidant, and antianxiety compound. As valerian root is an herbal supplement, dosages can be difficult to get right. Many factors may affect the quality of the root and supplements, such as the growing conditions, age, and preparation of the plant. Many people make a simple tea using about 3 grams of dried valerian root and 1 cup of boiling water.
They allow the root to fully steep for at least 10 minutes before drinking the tea. For extracts and supplements, different manufacturers will have their own recommended dosages based on their extraction processes or added ingredients. In general, the recommended dosage of a valerian supplement may be — milligrams a day.
However, some products may include stronger doses. Taking the herb about 30 minutes to 2 hours before bedtime may be best for sleep, depending on how intensely the person feels the effects of the herb. Taking lower doses throughout the day may have a gentler effect and help some people with anxiety symptoms.
However, there is not enough research on valerian root supplements to ensure that they are safe, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements ODS. The compounds in the plant may interact with some medications, which could put a person at risk of side effects or complications. For instance, valerian may interact with medications that have similar functions. This interaction could potentially increase the effects of other classes of drugs, such as:.
Additionally, valerian may interact with other dietary supplements, such as melatonin , kava kava , and St.
While some people will feel the effects of valerian root very quickly, many note that the herb works best when they take it for a week or two. Some side effects may occur when a person is taking valerian. People taking valerian who experience daytime sleepiness may wish to reduce their dosage. Valerian root may not be safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding, according to the ODS.
Similarly, very young children under the age of 3 years should avoid valerian. Even in older children, it is important to work with a doctor to find the minimally effective dosage in each case. But healthcare practitioners typically advocate short term usage, lasting up to six weeks, with a gradual tapering off to quit taking the herb, according to University of Maryland Medical Center 1.
The German government commission that regulates herbs has approved valerian as a gentle sedative 2. In general, valerian does not cause dependency or side effects but there are always exceptions and it is a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before taking it 2. The herb does seem to increase the effect of other sedatives, including alcohol and anesthesia. It may be unsafe to take before surgery. It has potential interactions with antihistamines and the statins used to lower blood pressure.
Pregnant and nursing women should not take valerian -- it has not shown adverse effects on fetal development but conclusive results will require more testing 2.
If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use valerian without talking to your health care provider. Valerian may slow down how quickly certain drugs are broken down by the liver. Many medications rely on the liver to break them down, so it's possible that in some cases, too much of these drugs could build up in the body. To be safe, ask your doctor before taking valerian if you are also taking any other medications.
The same is true of other herbs with a sedating effect, such as chamomile, lemon balm, and catnip. Because valerian is broken down by certain liver enzymes, it may interact with other drugs that are broken down by the same enzymes. These may include many different medications, including but not limited to the following:. Valerian may increase the effects of anesthesia.
If you are having surgery, it is important to tell your doctors, especially your surgeon and anesthesiologist, that you are taking valerian. The doctors may recommend you slowly lower the dose of valerian before surgery. Or, they may allow you to use valerian up to the time of surgery, making any needed adjustments to the anesthesia. Herbal medicines and perioperative care. Treatment of insomnia: an alternative approach.
Altern Med Rev. Effect of acupressure with valerian oil 2. J Tradit Complement Med. Balderer G, Borbely AA. Effect of valerian on human sleep. Psychopharmacology Berl. Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Med. Valerian does not appear to reduce symptoms for patients with chronic insomnia in general practice using a series of randomised n-of-1 trials. Complement Ther Med. De Feo V, Faro C. Pharmacological effects of extracts from Valeriana adscendens Trel.
Effects on GABA uptake and amino acids. Phytother Res. Critical evaluation of the effect of valerian extract on sleep structure and sleep quality. Ernst E. Herbal medications for common ailments in the elderly. Drugs Aging. Hyperactivity, concentration difficulties and impulsiveness improve during seven weeks' treatment with valerian root and lemon balm extracts in primary school children.
Efficacy and safety of herbal stimulants and sedatives in sleep disorders. Sleep Med Rev.
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