Valerian root is a popular dietary supplement reputed to have a number of calming effects. It has been used to induce sleep and to treat certain chronic disorders such as anxiety and epilepsy. Exactly how it affects the nervous system is not entirely clear, as its use for these conditions has not been well researched. However, this doesn't keep valerian from being one of the more popular supplements on the market. Consult your doctor before using it.
What is Valerian Root?
Valerian root is a popular herb reputed for calming effects. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the herb valerian has been used for this purpose since the second century. Valerian root supplements are often taken for sleep disorders, though they have also been used to calm the nerves, to treat seizure disorders and to settle gastrointestinal distress. Today, it can be purchased by anyone over the counter, without a doctor's prescription. While it may be sold as a supplement on its own, valerian is also often combined with other calming herbs such as lemon balm. It is available in capsule, tea or powder forms.
Valerian and the Nervous System
How valerian works is a bit of a mystery, but it is thought to affect the nervous system. Valerian may increase the amount of calming substances present in the brain, working in a similar but less intense way as many common prescription sedatives. Valerian may also inhibit some of the chemicals in the brain that can counteract the more calming substances. While it can be used as a sedative for anxiety, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports that valerian's most common use is for insomnia.
Research
Like many dietary supplements, valerian's effectiveness has not been researched to the same extent as more mainstream medications. However, it does show promise as a safe sleep aid. The studies are mixed; however, according to the UMMC when taken regularly for several weeks, valerian does improve sleep patterns with few side effects. Some studies reviewed by Medline Plus showed significant improvements while others show little difference between valerian and a placebo. While it does have the potential to calm the nervous system, it may or may not be an effective sleep aid.
Precautions
Even though it has relatively few side effects, you must take precautions when taking valerian. For instance, because it does have a sedative effect, it is likely to cause drowsiness. You should follow similar precautions as you would with any other sleep aid, such as not driving or operating heavy machinery, while taking valerian. In addition, you should not combine valerian with other sedatives as this may enhance their effect on the nervous system. These include alcohol, prescription sleep aids and anti-anxiety medications. Always check with your doctor before taking any dietary supplement, even one that is considered relatively safe like valerian.
