Valeriana officianalis — better known as valerian root — is an herbal supplement with sedating effects. While it is generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration, valerian can cause unwanted effects in some users. Rarely, valerian has been linked to liver damage. Understanding the effects of valerian can help you better assess the risks and benefits of using it. To reduce the likelihood of complications, ask your doctor before taking valerian if you have liver disease.
Identification
Valerian is a plant that grows wild in Asia, Europe and North America. While it’s been used for centuries to treat a number of ailments, valerian’s most common modern use is the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. It contains a variety of compounds, such as valerenic acid and valepotriates, that researchers think are partially responsible for its medicinal effects.
Adverse Effects
Valerian root can cause adverse effects in some users. According to E Med TV, people taking multiple herbs including valerian have experienced liver damage, though it’s not clear whether valerian is to blame. People with pre-existing liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis may be more likely to experience these complications when taking valerian. The Beth-Israel Medical Center states that the valepotriates in valerian root may be toxic to the liver, though most commercial brands are not believed to contain these compounds. Combining valerian root with other potential liver toxins such as alcohol may intensify its harmful effects on the liver. Less severe side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, dizziness and stomach upset are more likely to occur when taking valerian.
Application
Abstaining from valerian use is the only way to completely avoid all risk of liver damage and other adverse effects. Talk to your doctor before using valerian if you have a liver condition such as cirrhosis, and avoid combining valerian with alcohol or other sedatives. Valerian root may cause harmful interactions with certain substances, so ask your physician before using it if you take other supplements or medications regularly. Stop using valerian immediately and seek medical attention if you develop symptoms of liver failure, such as yellowing of the skin, dark urine or severe abdominal pain.
Considerations
As with all dietary supplements, valerian is not tested for safety or effectiveness by the FDA, so potency or purity may be unreliable. Choosing brands that carry the U.S. Pharmacopeia safety seal can help reduce the risk of contamination or other quality issues.
