Side Effects of Valerian Root

Valerian root comes from the root rhizome of the valerian plant. The plant comes from Europe, South Africa and parts of Asia and is used for a number of medicinal purposes. Valerian root is considered to be an effective treatment against psychological conditions, such as insomnia, anxiety, mood irritability, depression, exhaustion, delusions and hysteria. It is also used to alleviate symptoms from headaches, muscle and joint pains (including arthritis), heart conditions (by normalizing arrhythmias) and stabilizing blood pressure. Although the herb is generally considered safe to use, there are some side effects and adverse reactions that can be attributed with its usage.

Effects

• Side effects include nausea, stomach irritability, headache, vision disturbance, altered heartbeat and increased feelings of sleepiness and drowsiness. Some individuals may also have an adverse reactions to the herb and undergo increased levels of anxiety and panic.

Additional Side Effects

• Although unlikely, people taking Valerian root can experience dark urine and excessive urination, undergo migraines, stomach cramping, disturbances in their sleep cycle insomnia and mood swings.

Features

• The above symptoms may be experienced as withdrawal reactions in the cases of individuals who suddenly stop taking Valerian root and there has been evidence suggesting the manifestation of these symptoms after using the root for an extended period of time.

Precautions

• Individuals who are breast feeding, pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, have a history of liver disease or diabetes are advised against using Valerian root, as serious adverse reactions can occur.

Drug Interactions

• Prior to taking Valerian root, it is important to notify your doctor of any medications (both prescription and nonprescription) that you are taking or have recently taken, especially those which can result in feelings of drowsiness like sleep medications, tranquilizers, anti-anxiety or anti-psychotic medications, narcotic pain relievers or muscle relaxers, antihistamines and anti-seizure medications.

Potential

• Valerian root is also thought to have a positive effect when it comes to in treating a number of nerve disorders, attention deficit disorder, peripheral neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, sciatica, neuralgia and shingles.

Dosages and Usage

• Valerian root comes in the forms of tablets, capsules and liquid extracts and is usually taken orally approximately one hour prior to going to bed. Unless otherwise prescribed, Valerian root should not be used for a time period exceeding two weeks and the specific dosage varies according to the manner in which the supplement is being taken.