Valerian: Uses, indications and precautions when using

Valerian is most commonly used for sleep disorders, especially insomnia. Although valerian is thought to be relatively safe, side effects such as headache, dizziness, stomach problems or insomnia can occur. Valerian may not be safe to use if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is an herb native to Asia and Europe. Now it is also grown in the US, China and other countries. Valerian root contains several compounds that may promote sleep and reduce anxiety.
Therefore, valerian root has been used to treat sleep problems (insomnia). Valerian is also used by mouth to treat anxiety and psychological stress, but there is little scientific research to support these uses. Therefore, consult a medical professional before using products containing Valerian extracts.

Take this product by mouth, usually 30 minutes to 2 hours before bedtime or as directed. Because dosages vary in studies involving valerian, and some studies aren't rigorous, it's not clear which dosage is most effective or how long you should take a particular dose. This herbal product should not be used continuously for more than 4 weeks. Your dose may need to be gradually reduced for 1 to 2 weeks before stopping completely.
If you're thinking about taking a herb that contains valerian, check with your doctor to make sure it won't interact with other medications or supplements you're taking and that it's safe to take. with any medical condition or medical condition you have.

Valerian can cause headaches, upset stomach, boredom, irritability, restlessness, arrhythmia, and even insomnia in some people. Some people feel sluggish the morning after taking valerian, especially when taking the drug in higher doses. The long-term safety of valerian is unknown. The drug can cause withdrawal symptoms when discontinued after long periods of time. To avoid the possible side effects of stopping valerian after long-term use, it's best to reduce your dose slowly over a week or two before stopping completely.

Pregnant or nursing women: There isn't enough reliable information to know if valerian is safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding.
This medicine has not been evaluated to determine if it is safe for children under 3 years of age. If you have liver disease, avoid valerian. And because valerian can make you drowsy, avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery after taking it.
Surgery: Valerian can affect the central nervous system. Anesthesia and other drugs used during surgery also affect the central nervous system. Stop taking valerian at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Some drug interactions between Valerian and other drugs such as:
Alcohol: Taking large amounts of Valerian with alcohol can cause drowsiness Alprazolam: Taking valerian with alprazolam may increase the effects and side effects of alprazolam such as: sleepy. Sedatives (CNS depressants): Taking valerian along with sedatives might cause too much sleepiness. Taking valerian along with sedatives used in surgery may cause prolonged sedation. Some sedatives include pentobarbital, phenobarbital, secobarbital, thiopental, fentanyl, morphine, propofol. Sedatives (Benzodiazepines): Some of these sedatives include alprazolam, clonazepam, diazepam, lorazepam, midazolam, temazepam, triazolam. Some drugs are metabolized and broken down by the liver. Valerian might decrease how quickly the liver breaks down certain medications. Taking valerian along with certain medications that are broken down by the liver might increase the effects and side effects of some medications. Before taking valerian, talk to your doctor if you are taking any medications that are metabolized by the liver such as lovastatin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, fexofenadine, triazolam, and many others. Herbal supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration in the same way as drugs. Remember, natural herbal medicine does not always mean safe. Persistent insomnia is often a sign that something is wrong with your body, such as poor sleep habits or a physical or psychological condition. If you continue to have insomnia, talk to your doctor about possible causes and appropriate treatment strategies.

Reference source: webmd.com