Valerian root is an herbal remedy with sedating properties. It is primarily used for sleep disorders, but one of its purported benefits is for calming mild tremors. Research is lacking to confirm this benefit, notes the website MedlinePlus, a service of the National Library of Medicine. Before taking valerian or any other botanical remedy, consult a qualified health care provider.
History
People have been using valerian as a medicinal herb since ancient times, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Second-century physician Claudius Galen prescribed valerian for insomnia, and valerian was used in the 16th century for relieving nervousness, trembling, headaches and heart palpitations.
Current Uses
The most common current use for valerian root is treating sleep disorders, particularly insomnia. Study results are mixed for the herb's effectiveness, but some evidence indicates that it works, according to MedlinePlus. Herbalists also recommend valerian for a wide range of other conditions, including anxiety, psychological stress, restlessness, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome, muscle and joint pain and mild tremors. Insufficient evidence is available to rate the effectiveness of valerian root for any of these purposes.
Tremors
Although everyone has some degree of tremors when they move their hands, tremors tend to become more common as people age, according to MedlinePlus. Stress, fatigue, fear, excessive alcohol intake or alcohol withdrawal, caffeine, prescription medicines and cigarettes all can make this prevalent type of tremor worse. If you experience tremors that don't go away over time, consult a doctor to see if there may be an underlying medical problem.
Safety
Authors of an article published in the August 2001 issue of "Harefuah" reviewed studies on herbs commonly used to treat psychiatric disorders, including valerian root. They found several reports on side effects associated with valerian, including tremors of the hands and feet. Valerian root has also been connected with headaches, abdominal pain, chest tightness and toxic effects on the kidneys. MedlinePlus concludes that valerian root is likely safe for most people when taken on a short-term basis of a month or less, but cautions that long-term effects are unknown.
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