Valerian is frequently recommended by herbalists and healers to treat a variety of physical and mental conditions. The herb is commonly found in over-the-counter supplements to improve sleep and mood. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, valerian is generally regarding as a safe herb for most people, although you should contact your doctor prior to taking any herbal supplement.
History and Profile
Valerian has been used for thousands of years in herbal medicine practices around the world. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, valerian has been valued for its calming and sedative effects since the 2nd century A.D., and 16th-century herbalists prescribed valerian to treat nervous disorders and anxiety. The word valerian comes from the Latin root word "valere," meaning to strengthen or make strong. The plant is grown for commercial purposes throughout the world, although it is native to Europe. The root of the valerian plant is either freeze-dried and ground for use in capsules and teas or pressed to make fresh juice.
How it Works
Researchers aren't entirely sure how valerian works, but believe it has sedative, calming properties. The sedative effects of valerian may be attributable to its effects on the inhibitory neurotransmitter known as gamma aminobutyric acid, or GABA. Valerian appears to increase amounts of GABA, which has a relaxing and calming effect on your nervous system.
Potential Benefits for ADHD
Not a lot of scientific research has been performed on the benefits of valerian for ADHD. However, due to its calming effects, valerian is commonly recommended for people with ADHD. in addition, a 2002 study by A.J. Francis and R.J. Dempster, published in the journal "Phytomedicine," reported that valerian decreased sleep problems in children with symptoms of hyperactivity. In their book "Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child," authors Janet Zand, ND, Robert Roundtree, MD and Rachel Walton, MSN, reported that a small German study found benefits of using valerian on ADHD patients, including an improvement in learning capabilities and a decrease in aggressiveness and restlessness.
Potential Benefits for Depression
Valerian is sometimes prescribed for depression, especially for those who experience insomnia or other sleep difficulties stemming from their depressive symptoms, although not enough scientific evidence exists to validate its effects on other depressive symptoms. Valerian may help improve symptoms of depression such as nervousness or irritability, but can exacerbate depression if taken chronically.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Valerian
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Valerian
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- "Phytomedicine"; Effects of Valerian, Valeriana Edulis, on Sleep Difficulties in Children with Intellectual Deficits; AJ Francis and RJ Dempster; May 2002
- "Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child"; Janet Zand, ND, Robert Roundtree, MD and Rachel Walton, MSN; 2003
- "A Field Guide to Western Medicinal Plants and Herbs"; Steven Foster and Christopher Hobbs; 2002
