Gastrointestinal: Upset stomach, nervous stomach

Genitourinary: Menopause/hot flashes, may decrease menstrual pain, PMS

Musculoskeletal: Muscle and joint pain, muscle relaxant

Neurologic: Mild tremors, tension headache, epilepsy, restless legs syndrome, chronic fatigue

Mental Health: Insomnia based on nervous problems (German Commission E), nervousness, anxiety, stress, restlessness, ADHD, promotes relaxation, depression

                                                      *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, stomach upset, excitability, anxiety, heart disturbance/arrhythmia, insomnia, dry mouth, vivid dreams, dulling of senses, withdrawal after long-term use (taper), rash, visual disturbances, rare cases of dystonia

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Do not take with alcohol. Potential interactions with medications metabolized by the P450 3A4 enzyme, including Xanax, Klonopin, and Ativan. Do not take it with other sedating medications.

FORMS: Extracts, tinctures, capsules, tablets, teas, powders, extracts

RECOMMENDED BRANDS

Note: Some brands are noted to be lower in active than claimed. A few that were tested were found to have high levels of lead. The following brands were tested for good quality and adequate quantity of active ingredients.

• NOW® Valerian Root 500 mg root powder per capsule (order through Fullscript link here)

• GNC Herbal Plus Valerian Root Extract 500 mg (order through Amazon link here)

• Nature's Way® Standardized Valerian capsules (available in many retail stores)

I only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like those to Amazon—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Plus, these links often offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.

DOSAGES: As directed

Reported doses – May NOT be supported by evidence reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label. 

Because the effects of long-term use have not been evaluated thoroughly, some providers will recommend the cyclic use of valerian - 4-6 weeks on - two weeks off - then 4-6 weeks on - two weeks off and so on. Or, it can be used on an as-needed basis.

• Anxiety: 100 mg by mouth 3 times daily with meals

• Depression: 530 mg by mouth one hour before bedtime

• Dysmenorrhea: 255 mg by mouth 3 times daily - start 1st day of menstruation

• Insomnia: 300-600 mg of EXTRACT or 2000-3000 mg ROOT POWDER one hour before sleep

• Menopausal symptoms: 225 mg by mouth 3 times daily or 530 mg by mouth 2 times daily

• Restless legs: 530 mg by mouth one hour before bedtime

• Stress: 600 mg by mouth daily before stress exposure

• Tension headache: 1060 mg by mouth at bedtime

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant or nursing a baby, please do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.