Do you sometimes have trouble sleeping at night? Do you toss and turn when you go to bed and feel like you've never slept? Or do you have times when you feel very anxious and heavy? At times like these, many of us think, "Okay, I need to drink something natural and get over this." That's when you probably hear the name Valerian . Maybe a friend told you about it, or you saw it on the internet. So today, let's talk about what valerian really is, does it have any benefits, and what are the risks?
What exactly is Valerian?
Simply put, valerian is a plant. The root of this plant is used medicinally. For thousands of years, people in Europe and Asia have used it as a sleep aid and a calming herb. Today, many people around the world use it as a treatment for insomnia and anxiety . You can find it in pharmacies in our country as an herbal supplement .
What do people use valerian for?
People seek out valerian for two main reasons.
Sleep problems (Insomnia)
Several studies have shown that the herb valerian may help some people with sleep problems. This means that it may help them get better, deeper sleep and fall asleep faster once they get to bed . However, it is not yet clear whether it works the same for everyone. It may work well for some, while others may not notice any difference.
Anxiety and Stress
The scientific evidence on whether valerian helps reduce symptoms of anxiety is somewhat conflicting. While some studies suggest some benefit, more research is needed to definitively prove it.
Therefore, if you have severe anxiety or depression, it is best to definitely see a doctor for advice rather than using something like valerian on your own.
How much (dose) of valerian should I take?
This is the biggest problem that many people have. There is no specific recommended dose (standard dose) for valerian.
In studies on insomnia , the most commonly used dosage is between 400 and 600 milligrams of valerian taken about two hours before bedtime.
But the biggest problem here is that since these are not strictly regulated by the government like regular medications, the amount and quality of valerian extract can vary from one brand to another. So, if you are thinking about using something like this, never make decisions on your own. Talk to your doctor and get his advice.
Can't this be obtained naturally from food?
No. Valerian is a root of a plant, not a fruit or vegetable that we eat every day. However, some manufacturers use very small amounts of valerian as a flavoring in food and drinks. However, it is not expected to have any medicinal properties.
What are the risks of taking valerian? (Be sure to read this section!)
Just because something is “natural” or “herbal” doesn’t mean it’s 100% safe. Valerian is no exception. You should definitely be aware of these risks before using it.
| Risk/side effect type | Description and what you need to know |
|---|---|
| Common side effects | Although short-term use is usually not a major problem, some people may experience the following: |
| Interactions with other drugs | This is the most dangerous part. Valerian can interact with other medications you may be taking. Therefore, if you are taking any other medication, never take valerian without consulting your doctor. |
| Special risks and warnings | – Avoid driving and operating machinery: Since valerian can make you feel drowsy, there is a higher risk of car accidents.
|
| Pregnant mothers, nursing mothers and children | Valerian is not recommended for pregnant and nursing mothers, and young children, as there is not enough data on its safety for these people. |
Take-Home Message
- Valerian is an herbal supplement used for sleep problems and anxiety, but it doesn't work the same for everyone.
- Since these are not regulated like regular medications, there may be issues with quality and standards.
- There is no specific dosage for valerian, so be sure to consult your doctor before using it.
- Valerian can cause side effects such as drowsiness and headache. Therefore, do not drive or operate machinery while taking it.
- Most importantly: Valerian can interact dangerously with other medications you may be taking (especially those that cause drowsiness) and alcohol.
- This is not at all suitable for pregnant mothers, nursing mothers, and young children.
- Don't be fooled by the word "natural." Before using any supplement, it's wise to talk to someone who knows about it, like your doctor.
Valerian, insomnia, herbal medicine, anxiety, sleep problems
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