Valerian is used in the alternative medicine as the possibly effective help in treating the sleep problems (or insomnia). Some other uses that are not proven with the research includes treating stress, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, depression, tremors, chronic fatigue syndrome, menopause symptoms, epilepsy, and many other conditions. It isn’t sure whether valerian root is quite effective in treating other medical condition. The medicinal use of the product hasn’t been approved yet by FDA. The valerian root for sleep must not be used on behalf of medication that is prescribed by your doctor. Valerian is commonly used for the sleep disorders, particularly inability to sleep. In manufacturing, oil and extracts made from the valerian root are also used as the flavoring in the foods & beverages.
Valerian often is sold as the herbal supplement. There’re not any regulated manufacturing standards for herbal compounds and marketed supplements that are found contaminated with the toxic metals and other drugs. The herbal and health supplements must be bought from the reliable source just to minimize any risk of contamination.
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Valerian Root and Its Side Effects
You need to get emergency medical aid if you’ve these signs of the allergic reaction: difficulty in breathing; hives; swelling of lips, face, throat or tongue. Even though not all the valerian root side effects are observed, it appears to be safe when it is taken for the short time frame (four to eight weeks approximate).
Stop taking valerian and call doctor if you have:
Any liver problems– upper stomach pain, nausea, tired feeling, itching, dark urine, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of eyes or skin) and clay-colored stools.
Common side effects will include:
- Upset stomach;
- Headache;
- Dry mouth;
- Thinking problems;
- Strange dreams;
- Daytime drowsiness.
- Feeling excited and uneasy;
Interactions of Valerian Root
Valerian might also impair your thinking and reactions. So, you need to be careful when you are driving and doing anything that wants you to stay alert. You can avoid using valerian root with herbal and health supplements that will cause you drowsiness. It includes 5HTP, catnip, California poppy, gotu kola, chamomile, kava, Jamaican dogwood, St. John’s wort, yerba mansa, melatonin, skullcap (scullcap), and more.
Avoid alcohol. It will increase drowsiness that is caused by the valerian root.
Taking this drug with any other medicines and making you sleepy will worsen the effect. You need to consult with your doctor before you take valerian root with the sleeping pill, muscle relaxer, narcotic pain medicine, and medicine for depression, anxiety, and seizures. Valerian has lesser side-effects compared to other sleep medications that are available in the drug store.
Studies also show valerian “decreases time that it takes to sleep and improves your sleep quality as well.” Unlike lots of prescription sleeping pills, the valerian root has much lesser side effects (such as drowsiness and strange dreams).
How it works?
Valerian appears to act like the sedative on nervous system and brain.