If you suffer from anxiety or other nervous disorders that interfere with daily activities you may be on a quest for a treatment. Valerian is an herb that is used as a natural remedy to treat symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, depression and other nervous disorders. This herb is a less harsh treatment than prescription drugs used to treat anxiety such as benzodiazepines including Xanax. Talk with your doctor about trying valerian as a natural treatment for your condition before taking prescription medications. Avoid taking valerian and Xanax together, unless advised by your doctor.
Valerian
The roots of the valerian plant are crushed and used as medicine. It has been used historically since the second century A.D. The University of Maryland explains that, valerian has similar effects to those of benzodiazepines because it is believed that valerian increases the amount of amount of gamma aminobutyric acid or GABA in your brain. This brain chemical provides a psychological soothing effect by helping stabilize nerve cells. UMMC states that it may take close to a month for valerian to have an effect. This herb is available in fluid extract form, capsule or tablet form and as a tea.
Xanax
Xanax is a prescription medication and its primary use is to alleviate anxiety. It also helps reduce symptoms associated with panic disorders and anxiety related to depression. Xanax is chemically designed to increase the production of GABA in your brain. This drug provides a sense of well-being while relaxing and calming your nerves. Xanax has potential for addiction and should be closely monitored by your physician. Only take the dose directed by your doctor. Exceeding your prescribed dosage may lead to extreme fatigue, confusion, weakness, feeling light-headed or fainting.
Interactions
Valerian and Xanax are both sedating. If you combine valerian with Xanax or other benzodiazepines it will increase the sedative effects. This can lead to extreme drowsiness and feeling faint. If you wish to combine these two treatments talk with your doctor about adjusting your Xanax dose to incorporate valerian and have your use closely supervised. Valerian can increase other effects of Xanax, such as muscle weakness and loss of coordination and balance. Therefore, if your doctor advises a combination of both, do not drive or operate heavy machinery during use. Your mental alertness may also be compromised if you use valerian and Xanax together.
Warning
Valerian produces similar results to xanax but its effects are weaker. In accordance, it also has significantly lower risk of side effects. The few side effects associated with valerian include an opposite reaction causing increased restlessness and anxiousness. If you are pregnant or breast feeding you should not take either valerian or Xanax. Xanax can cause serious side effects that include unusual risk-taking behavior, depression or suicidal thoughts, hallucinations and seizure. You should also let your doctor know if you have a breathing condition, such as asthma, before taking Xanax.
