Valerian Root for Anxiety

The valerian plant originated in Europe, where dried roots of the plant have found use as a medicinal supplement since the seventeenth-century, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Modern herbalists still employ valerian as a treatment for anxiety.

Function

• Although its method of action is not fully understand, herbalists credit valerian root with increasing levels of a chemical called gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in your brain, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. This chemical has a sedating effect, which may relieve anxiety.

Clinical Evidence

• A 2009 study conducted by the Department of Psychology at the Eastern Oregon University in LaGrande, Oregon and published in the International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology, found that rats given valerian root showed fewer signs of anxiety than rats given ethanol (alcohol) or diazepam (an anti-anxiety drug). More research is necessary, however, to see if this is also true in humans.

Dosage

• The normal dosage of valerian root extract for anxiety is 220mg per day, reports the Tang Center for Herbal Medical Research at the University of Chicago. Valerian is only meant for short term use of less than six weeks once symptoms subside.

Warning

• Never combine valerian root with alcohol, sedatives, anticonvulsants, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, tricyclic antidepressants, narcotic pain relievers, anesthesia, antihistamines or statin drugs as the mixture could cause excessive sedation, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center. Also avoid using the herb with other sedating herbs like lemon balm and chamomile.

Considerations

• Avoid using valerian root if you must drive or operate heavy machinery. If you are pregnant or nursing or scheduled for surgery within the next two weeks, it is not safe for you to take valerian root for anxiety, warns RxList.