Alternative

Valerian Root

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Valerian Root, Valerian, Valepotriate, Valeric Acid

  • See Also
  1. Herbal Medicine
  • Indications
  1. Insomnia
  2. Proposed for anxiety (inconclusive data)
  • Physiology
  1. Sedative effects related to Valeric Acid component
  • Dosing
  • Insomnia (taken 30-120 minutes before bedtime)
  1. Best efficacy with continuous use >10-14 days
  2. Extract: 300-600 mg PO qhs
  3. Dried root: 2-3 grams in hot water 15 minutes PO qhs
  1. Improved Sleep Latency and quality
  2. References
    1. Stevinson (2000) Sleep Med 1:91-9 [PubMed]
    2. Ziegler (2002) Eur J Med Res 25:480-6 [PubMed]
  • Adverse effects (uncommon)
  1. Sleepiness on awakening (associated with 900 mg dose)
  2. Headache
  3. Gastrointestinal upset
  4. Withdrawal symptoms when stopped
    1. May be similar to Benzodiazepine Withdrawal
  • Drug Interactions
  1. No significant Drug Interactions
  • References
  1. Asher (2017) Am Fam Physician 96(2): 101-7 [PubMed]
  2. Hadley (2003) Am Fam Physician 67(8):1755-8 [PubMed]