Anxiety is a common psychiatric symptom that may stem from generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorders, phobias and other conditions. Herbal treatments are used by many to treat mental health problems, such as anxiety, under the belief that these treatments are safer because they are natural. Although valerian root may be effective for treating daytime anxiety, there is not enough evidence to demonstrate that it has a clear effect.
What Is Valerian Root?
Valerian is a plant native to Europe that can grow up to 2 feet in height. It has straight stems with umbrella-shaped heads and dark green leaves. Although valerian is often grown for decoration, the roots of this plant can be harvested and pressed into fresh juice. Alternatively, these roots can be freeze-dried and made into a powder that can then be stored in capsules or tablets.
Valerian Mechanism
Valerian is thought to affect the body by increasing levels of a chemical known as gamma-aminobutyric acid or GABA. GABA, which is primarily found in the brain, decreases neural activity. Valerian root naturally contains a certain amount of GABA, though it is not known if it can get into the brain. Increasing GABA levels in the brain typically reduces anxiety and can also have a sedative effect.
Effectiveness For Anxiety
Despite the fact that many people use valerian root as a treatment for anxiety, there are few well-designed studies that tested its effectiveness for this psychiatric disorder. A 2009 review in the "Cochrane Collaboration" found that there was only one randomized control trial, which is a type of well designed clinical study, that tested the effectiveness of valerian root for treating anxiety. This study did not find any significant anxiety-reducing effect of valerian root in human volunteers.
Limitations
Although this article in the "Cochrane Collaboration" suggests that valerian root may not be effective for daytime anxiety, more research is needed as their analysis is based on only one study. If you take valerian root, avoid driving heavy machinery or doing other tasks which require alertness as this herb may make you drowsy. Talk to your doctor before taking valerian root or any other herbal supplement.
