Does Valerian Root Help With Sleep?

Are you searching for an answer to the question: Does valerian root help with sleep? On this page, we've collected the most accurate and complete information to ensure that you have all of the answers you need. So keep reading!

Results from multiple studies indicate that valerian — a tall, flowering grassland plant — may reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep and help you sleep better. Of the many valerian species, only the carefully processed roots of the Valeriana officinalis have been widely studied.

You may wonder, is it ok to take valerian root every night? Valerian has been used safely in doses of 300-600 mg daily for up to 6 weeks. The safety of long-term use is unknown. Valerian is usually well-tolerated. Some common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, stomach upset, mental dullness, and vivid dreams.

Similarly one may ask, how long before bed should you take valerian root? Adult. For insomnia, valerian may be taken 1 to 2 hours before bedtime, or up to 3 times in the course of the day, with the last dose near bedtime. It may take a few weeks before the effects are felt.

Besides above, which is better melatonin or valerian root? Valerian root is a milder option and doesn't affect sleep as much as it affects stress levels. It has fewer side effects but can still cause dizziness or some drowsiness. Melatonin is the stronger choice between the two.

Likewise, how well does valerian root work for sleep? Valerian root supplements have been found to help people fall asleep faster, improve their sleep quality, and spend more time in a deep sleep stage. However, some studies found that valerian root had no effect or a statistically insignificant effect.

Why does valerian root wake me up?

Research suggests that valerian root extract might contain gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is also found in the brain. GABA is thought to act as a natural nerve calming agent. Some drugs, such as Valium and Xanax, also work by increasing GABA activity in the brain.

Is valerian root hard on the kidneys?

According to a study on valerian, different doses of this medication could cause no increase in blood urine nitrogen and creatinine (compared to sham group). Therefore, the extract of this herb was not likely to have toxic effects on rat kidneys [37]. Scientific studies on valerian have begun on humans since 1970 [33].

Why does valerian cause vivid dreams?

Valerian may cause vivid dreams because it contains essential oil and compounds called iridoid glycosides. These compounds stimulate opioid receptors and serotonin production in your brain, producing relaxing and anti-depressive effects ( 6 ).

What medications should not be taken with valerian root?

Possible Interactions with: Valerian

• Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin (Dilantin) and valproic acid (Depakote)
• Barbiturates.
• Benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium)
• Drugs to treat insomnia, such as zolpidem (Ambien), zaleplon (Sonata), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and ramelteon (Rozerem)

How long does valerian take to wear off?

Various compounds present in valerian are metabolized through different mechanisms and at different rates, further complicating its use. However, it is apparent that clinical effects generally wear off after about 4–6 hours.

How can I stay asleep for 8 hours?

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Does valerian root slow your heart rate?

Early research suggests that taking 600 mg of valerian for 7 days reduces blood pressure, heart rate and feelings of pressure when under stress.

Can I mix valerian root and melatonin?

Avoid taking valerian and melatonin at the same time, as this is likely to result in increased side effects. Remember that "natural" is not the same thing as "safe." Sleep aid supplements can sometimes be helpful for short periods, but you should talk to your doctor if your insomnia continues.

Is valerian root like Xanax?

Valerian Root for Anxiety

Valerian root is touted by some as a safe and natural alternative to prescription anxiety drugs that act on GABA receptors, such as: Xanax (alprazolam) Klonopin (clonazepam)

Does valerian cause next day drowsiness?

In one study an increase in sleepiness was noted the morning after 900 mg of valerian was taken [14]. Investigators from another study concluded that 600 mg of valerian (LI 156) did not have a clinically significant effect on reaction time, alertness, and concentration the morning after ingestion [27].

What can I take instead of melatonin for sleep?

Sleep aids: The options

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Diphenhydramine is a sedating antihistamine. ...
• Doxylamine (Unisom). Doxylamine is also a sedating antihistamine. ...
• Melatonin. The hormone melatonin helps control your natural sleep-wake cycle. ...
• Valerian. Supplements made from this plant are sometimes taken as sleep aids.

What happens if you take to much valerian root?

While this herb is usually tolerated well, there are a few reports of possible valerian toxicity linked to more severe symptoms, including headaches, liver toxicity, chest tightness, abdominal pain, and tremors ( 10 , 16 , 17 , 18 ).

How much valerian root should I take for anxiety?

The amount of valerian a person should take varies, but the dose typically ranges from 400-900 milligrams (mg) at bedtime. The dosage may also depend on how much valerenic acid the supplement contains. Valerenic acid is considered to be one valerian's most powerful sedative components.

Does valerian raise blood pressure?

Valerian may have a sedative effect. It may have a stimulant effect for extreme fatigue. Valerian root may lower blood pressure and relax muscles.

Does Valerian Root Help With Sleep - What other sources say:

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