Valerian Root Pills & Cardiac Problems

Most individuals who use herbs and other alternative medications do so in an effort to improve their health and promote overall well-being. It never is wise, however, to begin any alternative treatment without first consulting a health care professional.

Identification

• Valerian is a perennial plant found in Asia and Europe, and is sold in the United States as a dietary supplement made from the root of the plant. According to the National Institutes of Health, valerian has been in use since the time of ancient Greece to promote sleep and relaxation.

Misconceptions

• Many people feel that since herbal supplements are over-the-counter remedies, they pose no health threat. However, the White House Commission on Complimentary and Alternative Medicine Policy reports that most of these remedies lack proper clinical or scientific study, and that claims should not be made about their safety without substantial proof.

Cardiac Warnings

• According to the National Center for Health and Wellness, some people report heart palpitations and anxiety when using valerian root. Cardiac symptoms of this nature this should not be ignored. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics reports that irregular heartbeat experienced over a long period may cause enlargement of the heart or heart failure. For this reason it is imperative that a person consult their doctor before using valerian root or any other herbal supplement.