Uses of the Valerian Herb

Valerian, a perennial, invasive plant, is native to North America, primarily in the Northeast and Pacific West. Aside from being an ornamental flower and sometimes annoying weed, valerian often finds use as an herbal treatment. It offers a range of benefits, although do not take valerian without consulting your physician.

Sleep Disturbances

Valerian has long been in use as a treatment for sleep problems, and it has government approval in Germany for easing sleep disturbances triggered by nerves. An article published in the September 2005 issue of the "Journal of Women's Health" reports on studies that confirm this plant's use for improved sleep. Some side effects may occur, including nausea, dizziness and headaches, although this is rare.

Epilepsy

Seizures caused by epilepsy often respond to pharmaceutical treatment, although valerian may offer a natural option to ease attacks. Evidence in the November 2004 issue of "Epilepsia" notes that because of the inability to ensure a standard chemical makeup, researchers estimated that valerian would never find widespread use to prevent convulsions. Despite this, research continues. A study published in the February 2010 edition of the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" indicates that animal studies confirm valerian's effectiveness for reducing seizures. Further research is needed to determine if valerian can be useful for those with epilepsy.

Uterine Cramps

Whether you suffer from premenstrual syndrome or some other condition, uterine cramps can cause mild to severe pain, and valerian may offer some benefits. In a study published in the February 2009 issue of "The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology," researchers conducted laboratory tests on human uterine muscle and concluded that valerian relieves uterine contractions and theorize that it may treat cramps related to dysmenorrhea or pelvic pain associated with menstruation.

Anxiety

General anxiety may find effective relief through the use of valerian. An article in the October 2006 "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews" notes that a small study of 36 patients confirms that taking valerian over a four-week period is useful for mild anxiety, although traditional pharmaceuticals offer better results for more severe types. An additional study published in the February 2006 issue of "Phytotherapy Research" notes that valerian mixed with other herbs may prove more effective, although further studies are necessary to confirm these findings.

Dosage

You can take valerian in a variety of forms, including tea, tincture, powdered extract and tablet. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 250 to 600 mg of powder or tablet per day, although you may need to take more for anxiety -- 200 mg taken three to four times each day. Tea is made by steeping hot water with 2 to 3 g of dried valerian, and tincture mixtures use 1 to 1 1/2 tsp. of valerian. Speak to an herbalist or naturopath for recommended dosages.