Valerian is a sweetly scented perennial that is native to Europe and parts of Asia. It has been prized since the Bronze Age as a remedy for a number of ailments including sleeplessness, restlessness, headaches and anxiety. The use of Valerian Root has continued into modern ties, even being used by the British as a calming agent during the German Bombing Raids. Today any health food stores sell Valerian Root Extracts and Powders as a mild sedative for people who experience generalized anxiety. Valerian Root is also a popular pet care supplement for separation anxiety and nervousness.

How it Works

Despite the fact that it has been used by healers for over 2,000 years, very little modern research has been done on Valerian Root’s ability to promote calmness. Research that has been done has found that valerian root does have some mild sedative and tranquilizing properties. One small study has even found that it helped chronic insomniacs fall asleep faster and sleep more fitfully than the placebo group. While these small research studies have found that the Valerian Root Extract does work as a mild sedative, research still needs to be done to find out exactly how it works.

What research that has been done on the root’s ability as a sedative, anticonvulsant and pain reliever, has been focused on the GABA neurotransmitter receptor system. The GABA receptors help control neuronal excitability in the nervous system and are what over the counter sleeping pills (benzodiazepines) act upon. While there is some evidence that certain compounds found in Valerian Root do have the ability to interact with the GABA receptors, findings are still unclear.

Transitional Medicine

Despite enough rigorous scientific research to back it up, Valerian is often recommended to people who wish to wean themselves off of benzodiazapines such as Xanax and Klonopin. Being relatively safe with few if any adverse side effects, the herb can be seen a much less toxic alternative to these prescription medications. Aside from sleeping pills, Valarian Root has also been successfully used to help treat withdrawal symptoms of other drugs including alcohol and pain killers. It is listed as one of the primary ingredients in the herbal supplement Withdrawal Ease which is a supplement designed to curb the symptoms of Opiate Withdrawal.

Dangers

Valerian Root is conserved relatively safe with little side effects. Since it does cause drowsiness, you should not take it before driving. Taking too much may cause mild nausea and fogginess.
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