Valerian is an herb that is primarily used as a supplement to help treat insomnia. Although it is not exactly clear as to how valerian works, it may affect a certain brain chemical that produces a naturally calming effect. If you have epilepsy or liver disease, talk to your healthcare provider before taking it. Possible side effects include headaches, excitability, and morning drowsiness.
Valerian is an herbal supplement that is commonly used to treat
insomnia, although it is sometimes claimed to be helpful for other purposes as well. Valerian is a perennial plant that has been used medicinally for various health conditions since ancient times.
It is not exactly clear how valerian works to treat insomnia or other health conditions. There are a variety of different active compounds in valerian, and researchers are not sure which of these compounds are responsible for the sedative-like properties of the supplement. Some of the compounds seem to increase gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical in the brain that has a naturally calming effect.
Some studies have shown that valerian is effective at treating insomnia, although further research is needed to establish how best to safely and effectively use the supplement for this condition. There is not enough evidence to recommend valerian for other uses at this time.
Dosing Information for Valerian
Valerian is available in a large range of doses. For many uses, the safe and effective doses of valerian have not yet been established. However, general dosing information is available based on clinical studies and years of experience with these products.
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