What does valerian root actually do in the body?
It seems to act like a sedative in the brain and nervous system. Valerian has been used as a traditional medicine dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times. People commonly use valerian for insomnia. Side effects of valerian include headache, stomach upset, mental dullness, excitability, uneasiness, and vivid dreams. Some may experience withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, irritability, heart disturbances, insomnia, and in rare cases, hallucinations, if stopped abruptly after chronic use.There have also been a few reports of withdrawal symptoms in people who stopped taking valerian abruptly after long-term use. Rarely, the use of valerian may cause liver damage. Because of this, patients with liver disease should avoid using valerian-containing products.Researchers have found taking valerian root regularly for up to 28 days doesn’t cause problems for most adults. However, people taking sedatives or other anti-anxiety or sleep medications should avoid valerian root. There’s a chance these drugs could interact or become too sedating when combined.For insomnia, some doctors suggest 300–500 mg of a concentrated valerian root herbal extract (standardized to at least 0. Non-standardized dried root products, 1.
What does valerian do to your brain?
Results from an in vitro study using synaptosomes suggest that a valerian extract may cause GABA to be released from brain nerve endings and then block GABA from being taken back into nerve cells [23]. In addition, valerenic acid inhibits an enzyme that destroys GABA [reviewed in 24]. VA interaction with the GABAAergic system is similar to that of benzodiazepines (6). Sesquiterpenes and valepotriates were identified as having varying levels of antidepressant activity (7) (38). Chronic treatment of rodents with valepotriate-rich extract increased norepinephrine and dopamine levels (38).
What is the main use of valerian?
Historically, valerian was used to treat insomnia, migraine, fatigue, and stomach cramps. Today, valerian is promoted for insomnia, anxiety, stress, and depression. The roots and rhizomes (underground stems) of valerian are used for medicinal purposes. This herbal product should not be used for more than 4 weeks. To reduce the chance of possible side effects when stopping extended use of valerian, do not suddenly stop taking it. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased over 1 to 2 weeks before stopping completely.