4 potential side effects of Valerian root

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Valerian root is an herb best known for its effective treatment of sleep problems, such as insomnia. However, in certain cases, it can potentially have many unwanted side effects on health.

1. Valerian Root Overview

Valerian root is considered an effective remedy to help improve sleep problems, reduce anxiety, relieve menopausal symptoms and provide a sense of relaxation and well-being. This herb has been commonly used medicinally for thousands of years, and is often prepared as a capsule, liquid extract, or dried as a tea.
Valerian root comes from the herb Valeriana officinalis, which is native to Asia and Europe, along with several other countries such as the United States. Some research shows that Valerian root is an amazing herbal medicine when used to treat insomnia, but it can cause some unwanted side effects.

2. Valerian Root Side Effects

2.1 Nightmares During Sleep One of the most common side effects of using Valerian root is vivid dreams while sleeping.
A study was done looking for the side effects of Valerian and Kava - another herb that is also used to treat insomnia . Researchers gave 24 participants 4 ounces (120mg) of Kava per day for 6 weeks, then took a 2 week break, and continued to take 20 ounces (600mg) of Valerian daily for 6 weeks.

rễ Valerian — Sử dụng rễ cây Valerian có tác dụng đối với bệnh nhân mắc chứng mất ngủ

As a result, the majority of people using these two herbs did not experience any side effects, however about 16% of cases experienced nightmares during treatment for insomnia. by Valerian.
Valerian can cause nightmares because they contain essential oils, and compounds iridoid glycosides. These compounds have the ability to stimulate opioid receptors and serotonin production in your brain, providing a feeling of relaxation and helping to combat the symptoms of depression.

In addition, some studies also show that Valerian can increase the concentration of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, a substance that has a calming effect on the body and reduces nerve excitability.
Overall, these sedative properties are key factors in promoting deeper sleep, which in turn leads to vivid dreams. Therefore, scientists often recommend that people who are prone to unpleasant dreams should not use Valerian root, because it can cause nightmares.
2.2 Palpitations Palpitations are fast, pounding heartbeats, often triggered by stress, medication, exercise, or a medical condition. Although palpitations are not harmful to health, it can become a concern if you are not used to the condition.
Since the 16th century, people have commonly used Valerian root to treat heart palpitations, but ironically, there have been some cases of palpitations as a side effect of the use. , or stop using Valerian root. However, this information is anecdotal and not based on research. Therefore, scientists need to start doing more studies to determine specifically the potential side effects of this herb.

2.3 Dry mouth and upset stomach Valerian root may cause some mild to moderate gastrointestinal and oral effects. The use of this herb can increase intestinal activity, so for centuries in Europe, Valerian has been used to treat digestive problems, such as constipation. However, their laxative effect sometimes causes some unwanted symptoms, including diarrhea or an upset stomach.
In a 28-day study, with 391 participants taking various herbs to improve sleep, 18% of those taking Valerian root experienced diarrhea. and dry mouth.

Nguyên nhân gây đau dạ dày — Người gặp bệnh lý đường tiêu hóa có thể tham khảo sử dụng Valerian

2.4 Headaches and Mental Disorders Valerian root, if used for a long time, not only increases headaches, but also causes a number of other problems related to the brain, such as irritability Besides, some people feel more lethargic every morning after taking valerian root, especially in high doses, even if it can help them sleep well. more.If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should reduce the dose of Valerian to a more reasonable level.

3. Be careful when combining Valerian root with other drugs

As with other herbs, you should use caution when using Valerian root with other substances, or medications. Although serious side effects seem to be rare, Valerian root can interact with the following:
Antidepressants ; Alcohol; sedatives, eg sleeping pills, anticonvulsants, and benzodiazepines; cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins); Drug; Certain antifungal medications; Antihistamines; St. John's wort (St. John's wort). Also, you should not take Valerian root in high doses, or in combination with substances with similar effects, such as sedatives, or sleep aids.
Using this herb with the substances listed above may cause excessive drowsiness, or make depression worse. Moreover, Valerian root has the ability to slow down the breakdown of drugs by the liver, causing them to accumulate in the body. In particular, young children and women who are pregnant, or breastfeeding should also avoid using Valerian because there is no accurate information about their safety for these subjects.

rễ cây veral — Rễ cây Valerian có thể tương tác với một số loại thuốc khác nhau

Please note, these herbs are only a dietary supplement, and they are not intended to replace prescription medications. If you are confused with the choice of using Valerian root, it is best to seek advice and answers from a reputable health care professional.

4. Appropriate dosage when using Valerian root

The general dose of Valerian root recommended for the treatment of sleep problems is between 300-600 mg, which should be taken about 30-120 minutes before bedtime. You can use them as a substitute for teas, the dosage when brewing is from 2-3 grams of dried Valerian root with hot water.
Although these herbs are generally well tolerated by the body, in certain cases their toxicity can cause serious symptoms, including liver toxicity, headaches, ie chest pain, stomach upset, or tremors.
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Reference source: healthline.com

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This article is written for readers from Sài Gòn, Hà Nội, Hồ Chí Minh, Phú Quốc, Nha Trang, Hạ Long, Hải Phòng, Đà Nẵng.