Fibromyalgia is a disorder that is complex and not always easy to diagnose. Treatments exist to help patients manage the symptoms, and some individuals may want to explore herbal options to help treat their fibromyalgia. Valerian is one of these supplements that may be helpful. Before consuming valerian, consult your doctor as to whether this is safe for you.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome involving chronic, widespread pain. It consists of a variety of symptoms that usually occur together, such as pain, fatigue and sleep problems, but there is no one specific cause. The National Fibromyalgia Association, or NFA, adds that many fibromyalgia sufferers also have other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, lupus or arthritis. Approximately 10 million people in the United States live with this syndrome, making it one of the most common pain disorders, says the NFA. There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but treatment is multifaceted and can include pain medication, sleep regimens, psychological support and complementary treatments like yoga or massage.
Properties of Valerian
Valerian has been used since the second century to help relieve anxiety, nervous restlessness and insomnia, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The exact ways in which valerian works are not definitively known, but it is thought that this herb works on a chemical called GABA that is found in the brain. GABA regulates nerve cells and helps relieve anxiety, says the University of Maryland. This herb is considered safe for most people by the United States Food and Drug Administration and is typically used to help individuals with insomnia.
Benefits
Valerian may be beneficial to some individuals with fibromyalgia who have difficulty sleeping that has not been resolved by sleep regimens. This herb is a natural alternative to prescription sleep aids, some of which can cause serious adverse effects or create a dependency. Anxiety may accompany fibromyalgia, and in small doses so as to not cause sleepiness, valerian can help calm an individual and act in a similar way to alprazolam (Xanax) or diazepam (Valium), says the University of Maryland. To treat anxiety, the suggested dosage is 0.5 to 2 g daily of the dried herb; for insomnia, the suggested dosage is 400 to 600 mg of valerian extract one hour before bed, says Drugs.com.
Considerations
While valerian has been labeled safe, there is still the potential for this supplement to interact with medications your doctor has prescribed for your fibromyalgia. Medications like benzodiazepines, narcotic pain relievers or antidepressants may compound the effects of valerian, so ask your doctor whether it is safe for you to use valerian with any of the other medications you may be taking.
