Background
- Valerian is a plant native to Europe and Asia; it also grows in North America.
- Valerian has been used medicinally since the times of early Greece and Rome. ...
- Today, valerian is promoted for insomnia, anxiety, depression, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause symptoms, and headaches.
- The roots and rhizomes (underground stems) of valerian are used for medicinal purposes.
What are the risks of taking Valerian?
Valerian may cause headache, stomach upset, mental dullness, excitability, uneasiness, heart disturbances, and even insomnia in some people.A few people feel sluggish in the morning after taking valerian, especially at higher doses. Some people experience dry mouth or vivid dreams.
What are the health benefits of Valerian?
What Is Valerian Root Used For?
- Insomnia. Valerian root is probably best known as a remedy for insomnia. ...
- Anxiety. Valerian root is touted by some as a safe and natural alternative to prescription anxiety drugs, most especially those like Xanax (alprazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam), Valium (diazepam), and Ativan (lorazepam) ...
- Hot Flashes. ...
Is Valerian the same as Valium?
Valerian root is also known as nature’s Valium. It has been used to treat sleep disorders in Europe for decades. While it has been used in traditional medicine for over 2,000 years, the early Romans were the first people to use it — they made perfume from its flowers.
What is Valerian and who is taking it?
Valerian root is a common ingredient sold in dietary supplements. Proponents claim it cures insomnia and nervous tension caused by anxiety. Valerian has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy. It may be just what you need to finally get a good night’s sleep. There are several valerian root products on the market today.
What parts of the valerian plant are used?
The parts used include the root and the rhizomes. Dig plants that are at least two years old in the spring or fall. Be careful not to damage the roots as you dig. Some folks believe that the stronger the smell, the stronger the constituents of the plant, and by damaging the roots, the aromatics may be compromised.
What parts of valerian are edible?
The seeds are edible and the leaves have been used in the past as a condiment. Leaves can be used to make a tea as well as the root. Be sure to use in moderation.
What part of valerian is used for tea?
rootPeople make valerian tea from the root of the valerian plant. Valerian root has mild sedative properties and people can use it as a sleep aid and to treat anxiety.
How do you harvest and use valerian?
Roughly chop the roots into small pieces or use a mortar and pestle or spice grinder to turn the dried root into a powder. Dried valerian root can be stored in an airtight container for up to two years. The best way to use dried valerian root is to make herbal tea.
Can you chew valerian root?
As you probably already know, growing valerian from seed is often done for its root. It can be chewed, dried and powdered, made into teas, and extracted for its oils. It's leaves when crushed, were once used as a poultice to relieve headaches.
Can you eat valerian root?
Share on Pinterest Valerian root can be consumed in many forms, including as a tea. Valerian dietary supplements are usually made from the plant's roots, but can also derive from its stems. Dried roots, other plant materials, or valerian extracts may be consumed in several forms, including: teas.
Is valerian root hard on the kidneys?
According to a study on valerian, different doses of this medication could cause no increase in blood urine nitrogen and creatinine (compared to sham group). Therefore, the extract of this herb was not likely to have toxic effects on rat kidneys [37]. Scientific studies on valerian have begun on humans since 1970 [33].
Is it OK to drink valerian tea every night?
Valerian has been used safely in doses of 300-600 mg daily for up to 6 weeks. The safety of long-term use is unknown. Valerian is usually well-tolerated. Some common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, stomach upset, mental dullness, and vivid dreams.
What happens if you take too much valerian?
For anxiety, take 120 to 200 mg, three times per day. Your last dose of valerian root should be right before bedtime. The recommended dosage for anxiety is generally lower than the dosage for insomnia. This is because taking high doses of valerian root during the day can lead to daytime sleepiness.
How do you cut valerian?
Cut back to 6 to 8 inches in late summer to stimulate new growth and help overwintering. Don't prune again until spring clean-up. Water when very dry. Divide in spring or fall every 1 to 3 years.
How do you use fresh valerian leaves?
Rinse leaves to remove dirt, pat dry and arrange on dehydrator trays. They can go in the dehydrator with the roots but will be done after about 3 hours. Store the roots and leaves in separate glass jars. Valerian can be ground with a mortar and pestle and used in teas or to fill capsules.
How do you clean valerian root?
On small roots, like valerian, I use my fingers and lots of water. On larger roots, like dandelion, burdock, or yellow dock, I use a root veggie brush and lots of water. Using water is the single best way to get rid of all of the mud, clay, and small stones. And the earthworms.
Can I use the leaves from the valerian plant?
You can also dry the valerian leaves. Many people like to use dried valerian leaf in a sleep tea. They are said to have a milder effect then the roots. To dehydrate, take the leaves you have set aside earlier and remove them from their stalks.
Are valerian flowers poisonous?
Is the valerian plant poisonous? The valerian plant is non-toxic to pets and humans.
Is valerian plant poisonous?
Although valerian is thought to be fairly safe, side effects such as headache, dizziness, stomach problems or sleeplessness may occur. Valerian may not be safe if you're pregnant or breast-feeding. And it has not been evaluated to determine if it's safe for children under 3 years old.
Is white valerian edible?
It can be cultivated in pots or for cut flower. The flowers are edible and can be added fresh to salads or cooked as vegetables.
Before Taking This Medicine
You should not use valerian if you are allergic to it.Before using valerian, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use valerian...
How Should I Take Valerian?
When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in t...
What Should I Avoid While Taking Valerian?
Valerian may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.Avoid using valerian with othe...
What Other Drugs Will Affect Valerian?
Taking this medicine with other drugs that make you sleepy can worsen this effect. Ask your doctor before taking valerian with a sleeping pill, nar...
Before Taking This Medicine
You should not use valerian if you are allergic to it.Before using valerian, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use valerian...
How Should I Take Valerian?
When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in t...
What Should I Avoid While Taking Valerian?
Valerian may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.Avoid using valerian with othe...
What Other Drugs Will Affect Valerian?
Taking this medicine with other drugs that make you sleepy can worsen this effect. Ask your doctor before taking valerian with a sleeping pill, nar...
What Is Valerian Root Used For?
Alternative healthcare providers believe that valerian root can treat a variety of health conditions, including insomnia, anxiety, headaches, digestive problems, menopause symptoms, and post-exercise muscle pain and fatigue. The evidence supporting these claims is generally mixed.
What is the purpose of valeric acid?
It is believed that one of the purposes of GABA is to control fear or anxiety experienced when nerve cells are overexcited.
How long does Valerian root take to work?
The effects of valerian root are said to be noticeable within one to two hours. It is usually best to take a dose 30 minutes or two hours before bedtime. To make valerian tea, add 2 to 3 grams of dried valerian root (roughly 1 to 2 teaspoons) to one cup of hot water and allow to steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
What enzyme breaks down Valerian?
Valerian is broken down in the liver by an enzyme known as cytochrome P450 (CYP450). Theoretically, it could interfere with the effectiveness of medications that are also broken down by CYP450, including: 8
What herbs are used to treat anxiety?
A 2015 review from Harvard Medical School contends that of 12 traditional herbs used to treat anxiety (including hops, gotu kola, and gingko), valerian was the "most promising candidate" for treating anxiety associated with bipolar disorder.
Where does Valeriana originate from?
Valerian, also known as Valeriana officinalis, is a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. The root of the plant has long been used as a herbal remedy to treat insomnia. 1 The use of valerian root dates back to the Greek and Roman Empires and was noted by Hippocrates to treat headaches, nervousness, trembling, and heart palpitations.
Is Valerian root safe for anxiety?
Anxiety. Valerian root is touted by some as a safe and natural alternative to prescription anxiety drugs, most especially those like Xanax (alprazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam), Valium (diazepam), and Ativan (lorazepam) that act on GABA receptors.
What herbs can help with menstrual cramps?
If you suffer from menstrual cramps, be sure to read how valerian and other herbs can help and try out this tea by The Hippy Homemaker. For an even yummier flavor in your tea, add a pinch of cinnamon chips or peppermint leaf to your herbal mixture.
What is Valerian root used for?
Do you have your herbal first aid kit ready for summer? Keep versatile valerian root on hand to soothe sore muscles and bruises, to relieve a chesty cough, or to help you fall asleep.
What is black cherry cough syrup good for?
This black cherry cough syrup tastes great and is perfect for soothing coughs and sore throats.
How long has Valerian been used?
Valerian is more than a garden beauty, however. It has a documented use spanning more than 2000 years!
What is a valerian plant?
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a lovely garden plant with pinkish-white aromatic flowers. A perennial to Zone 4, valerian thrives in sun to partial shade, is easily propagated, and requires little care. Plant it in the back of your garden, though, since it can grow up to six feet tall!
Can you use Mullein to calm a cough?
If you’ve used mullein to calm a cough, you might want to add valerian and make “Dad’s Cough and Bronchial Concoction.” Making this during the summer will help you prepare for the upcoming cold and flu season.
Does tincture help with headaches?
Struggle with headaches? This “headache ease” tincture can help get the pain under control. Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? Check out the handy list of herbal substitutions in the post.
What is valerian?
Valerian is a flowering plant, the root of which is dried and used as an herbal remedy.
What should I avoid while taking valerian?
Valerian may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.
What other drugs will affect valerian?
Taking valerian with other drugs that make you sleepy can worsen this effect. Ask your doctor before taking valerian with a sleeping pill, narcotic pain medicine, muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.
What to do if valerian doesn't improve?
Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with valerian does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.
What are the types of infections?
any type of infection (including HIV, malaria, or tuberculosis ); anxiety or depression; asthma or allergies; cancer; erectile dysfunction; heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD ); high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a heart condition; migraine headaches;
What are the side effects of a syringe?
headache; upset stomach; thinking problems; dry mouth; feeling excited or uneasy; strange dreams; or. daytime drowsiness. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
Is Valerian a regulated product?
Valerian is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs.
How should I take valerian?
When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.
What should I avoid while taking valerian?
Valerian may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.
What other drugs will affect valerian?
Ask your doctor before taking valerian with a sleeping pill, narcotic pain medicine, muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.
How to report Valerian root side effects?
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. Valerian Root side effects (more detail)
What is Valerian used for?
What is valerian? Valerian is a flowering plant, the root of which is dried and used as an herbal remedy. Valerian has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating sleep problems ( insomnia ).
How long before surgery can you stop Valerian?
If you need surgery, stop taking valerian at least 2 weeks ahead of time. Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with valerian does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What are the types of infections?
any type of infection (including HIV, malaria, or tuberculosis ); anxiety or depression; asthma or allergies; cancer; erectile dysfunction; heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD ); high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a heart condition; migraine headaches;
How does it work ?
Valerian seems to act like a sedative on the brain and nervous system.
How long does Valerian extract last?
120 mg of valerian extract, with 80 mg of lemon balm extract before bedtime for up to 30 days, or. 374-500 mg of valerian extract plus 83.8-120 mg of hops extract before bedtime for 2-4 weeks, or. 300 mg of valerian extract, 80 mg of passionflower extract, and 30 mg of hops extract before bedtime for up to two weeks.
What is Valerian used for?
Valerian is most commonly used for sleep disorders , especially the inability to sleep ( insomnia ). Valerian is also used orally for anxiety and psychological stress, but there is limited scientific research to support these uses.
What is the purpose of the CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION?
CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances.
What organ breaks down medications?
Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver.
Can Valerian cause sleepiness?
Valerian might also cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Taking large amounts of valerian along with alcohol might cause too much sleepiness. Valerian can decrease how quickly the liver breaks down alprazolam. Taking valerian with alprazolam might increase the effects and side effects of alprazolam such as drowsiness.
Is Valerian safe to take?
Side Effects. When taken by mouth: Valerian is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when used in medicinal amounts short-term. Valerian has been used with apparent safety in studies lasting up to one month. The safety of long-term use is unknown.
Where Valerian Is Found
Valerian is endemic in Europe and some parts of Asia. They grow in average garden soils and are often found along riverbanks and marshy grasslands. The herb is non-native in the US but proliferated in the northern parts due to its adaptability to cooler climates.
How To Identify Valerian
Valerian is an invasive flowering perennial plant that grows up to 2 meters. It can grow tall and slender but its stems may flop in full shade. This deciduous plant has a clumping habit with a rapid growth rate. Its trumpet-like star flowers contain both types of reproductive organs.
How To Grow Valerian
Valerian propagates through seeds and root division. Some nurseries and garden stores may sell both seeds and full-grown valerian plants. Often, you will find valerian seeds for planting in some online stores. This hardy plant can grow in a variety of conditions but may thrive abundantly in moist and swampy areas.
Plant Care and Maintenance
Overwatering is not an issue with valerian since it can survive in wet and marshy areas. In summer, regular watering is necessary to keep them healthy.
How To Harvest Valerian
After one year, valerian root is ready for harvest. But most herbalists prefer two-year-old plants when the roots are of good size. Harvesting the plant for its oil is best done in early fall. During this season, the roots have the highest concentration of oil.
What Valerian Root Is Good For And Natural Remedies Made From It
Valerian is a powerful nervine, an herb that has therapeutic effects on the nervous system. Its most effective medicinal function is in treating insomnia and neurological disorders. Its root compound works on the nervous system to promote deep relaxation and relieve anxiety. It is also an effective medicine for mood swings, paranoia, and phobias.
What Parts Of The Valerian Are Used For Remedies
In herbal medicine preparation, the root of the valerian is considered the most valuable. It is the source of essential oils that are obtained and processed for commercial use.
What is the common name for Valerian?
Dioscorides and Galen must have felt the same way, since they referred to valerian as “Phu.”. Other common names for valerian include: garden valerian, all-heal, cut-finger, and garden heliotrope. (Valerian is in the Valerianaceae family, not the Heliotrope family.)
What does Valerian smell like?
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is on the other end of the fragrance spectrum. Although some people like the smell of valerian (I’m one of them), many say that it reminds them of “dirty sweat socks.”. Dioscorides and Galen must have felt the same way, since they referred to valerian as “Phu.”. Other common names for valerian include: garden ...
What is Valerian in Harry Potter?
It was generally regarded as a feminine element. Its powers were believed to be love, sleep, purification, and protection.
Why did the Greeks hang bundles of valerian in their windows?
The ancients Greeks would hang bundles of valerian in their homes, especially in their windows, to keep evil entities from entering. The Celts believed hanging it their homes would keep lightening from striking.
How to harvest Valerian?
I like to harvest valerian on warm fall day, after the first frost. The parts used include the root and the rhizomes. Dig plants that are at least two years old in the spring or fall. Be careful not to damage the roots as you dig. Some folks believe that the stronger the smell, the stronger the constituents of the plant, and by damaging the roots, the aromatics may be compromised. To get more root production, deadhead the flowers during the summer. Cats love valerian, so you can expect every feline in close proximity to join you during your harvest. When you clean the roots, take care not to rub, scrub, or scrape them to avoid damage. This is tricky, but it can be done.
Why did Hertha use a whip?
The Nordic goddess Hertha is said to have used valerian as a whip to encourage the stag she rode to greater speeds! (The stag’s bridle was said to be made of hops.)
How tall is a sage plant?
The plant can reach five or six feet tall, has opposite compound leaves with seven to ten leaflet pairs. The stem is hollow, and the flowers are small and pinkish/white with a sweet smell.
Why is Valerian important?
Valerian is most recognized for helping to ease insomnia, anxiety, and nervous restlessness. It became popular in Europe in the 17th century. In addition to being medicinal this is also edible. This plant was in the Valerianaceae family but is now in the Caprifoliacaeae family. When dried, this plant smells horrible.
How many pairs of leaflets are there in a pinnate leaf?
Leaves grow opposite and stalked. The blade is pinnate with 6-11 pairs of terminal leaflet. Leaflets have toothed margins and the terminal leaflet is not really broader than the lateral leaflets.
How tall does Valerian grow?
Distinguishing Features. Valerian is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and grows (on average) up to 1 metre (3’) tall. Although it is a garden plant, it also grows wild in damp grasslands. Straight, hollow stems are topped by umbrella-like heads.
When do corollas bloom?
The corolla is slightly unequal. The calyx is small and collar-like. It has three stamens. Flowers are fragrant. Flowers bloom in June and July.
Can you use leaves as a condiment?
The seeds are edible and the leaves have been used in the past as a condiment. Leaves can be used to make a tea as well as the root. Be sure to use in moderation.
