Uses of Valerian Root Extract

Modern medicine takes a large number of hints from ancient recipes. One such ancient remedy is the valerian plant, which has been used medicinally throughout history, starting with the ancient Greeks. Today, valerian is available as capsules containing the dried root alone or in combination with other dietary supplements, in the form of extracts, and also in some teas. This root has a variety of medicinal uses, some of which have been confirmed as effective while others are still being studied.

Sleep Aid

• The most common medicinal use for valerian root extract is as a sleep aid. While American researchers have not conclusively determined exactly how or why, or even whether, valerian root helps with sleeping, Germany's Commission E (similar to the Food and Drug Administration) has approved valerian root to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. Valerian has an advantage over other sleep aids in that it has few side effects when used in moderation. Valerian root is a diuretic, so patients taking the supplement may have an increase in urination. Doctors and researchers also caution against taking valerian root with other sedatives or sleep aids, as patients who combine these medicines risk oversedation.

  Patients should also avoid taking valerian root extract while drinking alcohol, since its sedative effect may be amplified when combined with excessive alcohol consumption.

Anxiety

• Although researchers have not yet clearly identified all of the active chemical constituents of valerian root or definitely linked them to its sedative effects, they nevertheless make it a promising treatment for anxiety disorders. Extracts from the plant have been used successfully in treating anxiety, depression, stress and nervous conditions. Researchers have begun trying to use the herb to treat epilepsy, hysteria, delusions and other neuroses or severe, anxiety-based conditions.

Other Uses

• Ancient Greek physicians used valerian to treat even more ailments, having commonly recommended it for digestive problems, including gas, nausea, indigestion, cramping and ulcers. The U.S. Office of Dietary Supplements claims that 16th century physicians prescribed valerian root for nervousness, headaches and heart palpitations. Some scientists have recently studied valerian root as a treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), but research is inconclusive regarding its effects.