Herbal Monograph
Valerian
Valeriana officinalis L.
Caprifoliaceae (formerly Valerianaceae)
Time-honored nervine sedative for calming the nervous system and promoting restful, restorative sleep
Overview
Plant Description
Herbaceous perennial, 30-150 cm tall (typically 100-150 cm when flowering). Stems erect, hollow, grooved, sparsely hairy to glabrous. Leaves opposite, pinnately divided with 7-25 lanceolate leaflets; leaflets 2-8 cm long, coarsely toothed or entire, sessile to short-petiolate. Basal leaves long-petiolate with broader leaflets; upper leaves sessile with narrower leaflets. Inflorescence a dense, terminal, flat-topped or rounded corymb. Flowers small, 3-5 mm, white to pale pink, funnel-shaped with 5 lobes, slightly irregular; stamens 3, protruding. Fruit a small achene, 2-5 mm, crowned with a feathery pappus for wind dispersal. Rhizome short, vertical, 2-4 cm, covered with numerous slender, pale brown roots 10-20 cm long, with a highly characteristic strong, pungent odor that intensifies upon drying (due to formation of isovaleric acid from iridoid precursors).
Habitat
Damp meadows, woodland edges, riverbanks, ditches, and moist grassland. Prefers moist to wet, rich, loamy soil. Full sun to partial shade. Tolerates a range of soil pH but prefers slightly alkaline conditions. Hardy in USDA Zones 4-9.
Distribution
Native to Europe and western Asia. Natural range extends from Scandinavia south to the Mediterranean, east through the Caucasus to western Siberia. Naturalized in eastern North America. Widely cultivated commercially in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Poland, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (primarily Vermont, Oregon, and Wisconsin).
Parts Used
Root and rhizome (Valerianae radix)
Preferred: Dried root for infusions and capsules; fresh root tincture (1:5, 70% ethanol) preserves valepotriates; standardized extracts (valerenic acid content)
The root and rhizome are the sole medicinal parts recognized in all pharmacopeias and monograph systems (Commission E, WHO, EMA, ESCOP, USP). The fresh root has a relatively mild odor; the characteristic strong, pungent smell develops upon drying as valepotriates decompose and isovaleric acid is released through enzymatic hydrolysis. Both fresh and dried root preparations are used medicinally, though chemical profiles differ.
Key Constituents
Iridoids (Valepotriates)
Valepotriates were initially believed to be primary active compounds but are now considered less important for clinical activity because they decompose during processing and have very poor oral bioavailability. They are largely absent from finished commercial preparations (aqueous extracts, dried root products). Fresh root tinctures in high-alcohol menstrua retain more valepotriates. Despite instability, their degradation products (baldrinal, homobaldrinal) retain some biological activity.
Sesquiterpenes
Valerenic acid and its derivatives are now considered the most clinically relevant active compounds. Valerenic acid inhibits GABA transaminase (the enzyme that degrades GABA), increasing synaptic GABA levels. It also acts as a positive allosteric modulator at GABA-A receptors, specifically at the beta-3 subunit, which is distinct from the benzodiazepine binding site. This mechanism has been confirmed in animal models and provides a pharmacological rationale for sedative and anxiolytic effects. European Pharmacopoeia requires minimum 0.17% sesquiterpenic acids (expressed as valerenic acid) for dried root.
Volatile oil (essential oil)
Total volatile oil content of dried root is typically 0.3-2.1% (European Pharmacopoeia requires minimum 0.5% for Valerianae radix). Bornyl acetate content is used as a quality differentiator; higher-quality roots have higher bornyl acetate levels. The volatile oil fraction contributes to sedative activity in animal models but is not sufficient alone to explain clinical effects, supporting the concept that valerian's activity depends on multiple constituent classes acting synergistically.
Amino acids
The presence of GABA in valerian extracts is well-documented but its contribution to clinical effects remains uncertain. GABA has limited ability to cross the blood-brain barrier in adults, and the quantities present in typical valerian doses are relatively small compared to endogenous CNS GABA concentrations. The GABA-enhancing effects of valerenic acid (via GABA transaminase inhibition) are more likely to explain the GABAergic clinical effects than direct GABA supplementation from the plant material.
Lignans
Lignans represent an additional mechanism of action for valerian's sleep-promoting effects beyond the GABA pathway. Olivil and its derivatives show partial agonist activity at adenosine-A1 receptors, the same receptor system through which caffeine exerts its wake-promoting effects (as an antagonist). This may help explain why valerian appears to promote natural sleep onset rather than inducing sedation through GABAergic mechanisms alone.
Flavonoids
Flavonoid constituents may contribute to the overall sedative and anxiolytic profile through interaction with GABA-A/benzodiazepine receptor complex. The synergistic interaction between linarin and valerenic acid observed in animal models supports the phytotherapy principle that whole-plant extracts may be more effective than isolated compounds.
Herbal Actions
Promotes sleep and deep relaxation
The most well-established and historically consistent action of valerian. Promotes sleep onset and improves sleep quality without the hangover effects associated with synthetic sedatives when used at recommended doses. Mechanism involves multiple pathways: GABA transaminase inhibition by valerenic acid (increasing synaptic GABA), positive allosteric modulation of GABA-A receptors at the beta-3 subunit, adenosine-A1 receptor partial agonism by lignans, and possible 5-HT receptor interactions. Commission E approved for sleep disorders. Effects may require 2-4 weeks of regular use to fully manifest.
[1, 2, 3, 6]Supports and calms the nervous system
Acts as a nervous system trophorestorative and relaxant nervine. Calms nervous excitability, reduces nervous tension, and supports healthy nervous system function. Distinguished from simple sedation by its apparent ability to calm without significant CNS depression at therapeutic doses. Particularly indicated for nervous exhaustion, nervous tension headaches, and the nervous component of digestive disorders.
[1, 2, 13]Reduces anxiety
Reduces anxiety and nervous tension. Andreatini et al. (2002) pilot RCT compared valerenic acid extract to diazepam and placebo for generalized anxiety disorder; valerian significantly reduced psychic symptoms of anxiety. Mechanism likely involves GABA-A receptor modulation. The anxiolytic effect may be partially independent of the sedative effect, as some clinical observations suggest anxiety reduction without proportional sedation.
[3, 10, 13]Relieves smooth muscle spasm
Relaxes smooth muscle spasm, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract and uterus. Valeranone and other sesquiterpenes demonstrate direct spasmolytic activity on smooth muscle in vitro. This action underlies valerian's traditional use for intestinal colic, menstrual cramps, and muscle tension. Commission E approved for nervous gastrointestinal complaints including gastric cramps.
[1, 2, 13]Lowers blood pressure
Mild blood pressure-lowering effect observed in some traditional and clinical contexts, likely secondary to relaxant and anxiolytic effects rather than direct cardiovascular action. Not a primary indication.
[13]Relieves pain
Mild pain-relieving properties, particularly for tension headaches, menstrual cramps, and musculoskeletal pain associated with spasm or nervous tension. The analgesic effect is secondary to the antispasmodic and nervine actions rather than a direct analgesic mechanism. Traditional use for rheumatic pain and neuralgia.
[13]Therapeutic Indications
Nervous System
Insomnia and sleep disorders
The primary and best-studied indication for valerian. Commission E positive monograph for sleep disorders (Unruhezustande, Einschlafstorungen). WHO monograph: nervous excitability with difficulty falling asleep. EMA well-established use for relief of mild nervous tension and sleep disorders. Meta-analysis by Fernandez-San-Martin et al. (2010) of 18 RCTs concluded valerian might improve sleep quality without producing side effects, though quantitative assessment of efficacy was limited by heterogeneity. Bent et al. (2006) systematic review of 16 studies found that valerian improved sleep quality as reported by subjective measures, though objective sleep parameters (polysomnography) were inconsistent. Donath et al. (2000) sleep EEG study showed increased slow-wave sleep latency decrease and slow-wave sleep percentage increase after 14 days of treatment, suggesting improvement in deep sleep architecture.
[1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8]Restlessness and nervous agitation
Commission E approved for states of restlessness (Unruhezustande). EMA well-established use for relief of mild nervous tension. Long history of traditional use in European phytotherapy for nervous excitability, particularly when manifesting as physical restlessness, inability to relax, or racing thoughts. Used during both World Wars for soldiers suffering from nervous stress and shell shock (now PTSD).
[1, 2, 3]Generalized anxiety disorder and stress-related anxiety
Andreatini et al. (2002) pilot RCT of 36 patients with GAD compared valerenic acid extract (mean dose 81.3 mg valerenic acid/day) to diazepam (6.5 mg/day) and placebo over 4 weeks. Valerian significantly reduced psychic symptoms on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale compared to placebo. No significant difference from diazepam for total HAM-A score. EMA traditional use for relief of mild symptoms of mental stress. Further large-scale RCTs are needed.
[3, 10]Nervous tension headache
Traditional use for headaches arising from nervous tension, stress, and muscular contraction. The combination of nervine, antispasmodic, and mild analgesic actions provides a rational basis. Often combined with other headache herbs such as Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew) or Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile).
[13]Digestive System
Nervous dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome
Commission E: approved for nervous gastrointestinal complaints, specifically gastric cramps of nervous origin. The antispasmodic action on smooth muscle, combined with the nervine and carminative actions, makes valerian appropriate for digestive complaints driven by nervous tension. Traditionally combined with Matricaria recutita (chamomile) and Melissa officinalis (lemon balm) for nervous stomach complaints.
[1, 13]Musculoskeletal System
Muscle tension and spasm
Traditional use for skeletal muscle tension and cramping, particularly when associated with nervous tension or stress. The antispasmodic and nervine actions combine to address both the central and peripheral components of muscle tension. Historically used for muscle cramps, restless legs, and tension-related musculoskeletal pain.
[13]Cardiovascular System
Nervous palpitations and stress-related cardiac symptoms
Traditional use for heart palpitations and cardiac awareness related to anxiety and nervous tension. Does not have direct antiarrhythmic or cardiotonic activity; the benefit is through reduction of sympathetic nervous system overdrive and anxiety. Often combined with Leonurus cardiaca (motherwort) or Crataegus spp. (hawthorn) for this indication.
[13]Reproductive System
Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)
Traditional use for menstrual cramps based on the smooth muscle antispasmodic action. One small RCT (Mirabi et al. 2011, PMID: 21959068) in 100 female students found valerian 255 mg three times daily for 3 days significantly reduced pain intensity compared to placebo. Traditionally combined with Viburnum opulus (cramp bark) or Viburnum prunifolium (black haw).
[12, 13]Energetics
Temperature
warm
Moisture
slightly dry
Taste
Tissue States
cold/depression, wind/tension
In traditional Western herbal energetics, valerian is classified as warming and slightly drying. It is specifically indicated for conditions arising from nervous tension (wind/tension tissue state) and cold/depressive states of the nervous system. The warming, dispersing quality helps to move stagnant energy and relieve tension. The bitter taste reflects its action on the digestive system; the pungent and aromatic qualities reflect its volatile oil content and its ability to move and disperse. Matthew Wood describes valerian as suited to individuals with a 'heavy, oppressive' quality to their tension. IMPORTANT: Not all individuals respond well to valerian; approximately 5-10% of people report a paradoxical stimulating effect, which may relate to individual constitutional differences or the warming energetics being inappropriate for already warm/excess constitutions.
Traditional Uses
Greco-Roman classical medicine
- Hippocrates (c. 460-377 BCE) described valerian's properties
- Dioscorides (1st century CE) called it 'Phu' and recommended it as a warming and diuretic herb in De Materia Medica
- Galen (2nd century CE) prescribed valerian specifically for insomnia, calling it a sleep-inducing remedy
- Pliny the Elder mentioned it as a treatment for various complaints
"Dioscorides described Phu (Valeriana) as warming and diuretic, useful for side pains and as a poultice. Galen later specifically identified its sleep-promoting properties and prescribed it for insomnia, establishing the indication that would persist for nearly two millennia."
Medieval European herbal medicine
- Treatment of epilepsy and seizures
- Remedy for plague and pestilence (name 'All-heal' reflects its perceived broad utility)
- Nervous conditions and hysteria
- Heart palpitations
- Digestive complaints
"Medieval herbalists greatly valued valerian. Abbess Hildegard of Bingen (12th century) recommended it as a sedative and sleep aid. The name 'All-heal' (Valeriana derives from Latin 'valere' meaning 'to be well' or 'to be strong') reflected the breadth of conditions for which it was prescribed. The Pied Piper of Hamelin legend may reference valerian's well-known ability to attract rats and cats."
[13]
Traditional European herbal medicine (16th-19th century)
- Insomnia and sleeplessness
- Nervous disorders, hysteria, and anxiety
- Epilepsy (Fabius Columna reported his own epilepsy cured by valerian in 1592)
- Intestinal colic and flatulence
- Headache and migraine
- Heart palpitations
- Muscle cramps and convulsions
"Fabius Columna (Fabio Colonna), an Italian botanist, published in 1592 that he had cured his own epilepsy using powdered valerian root, bringing the herb renewed medical attention. Culpeper (17th century) classified valerian as warm, under the influence of Mercury, and useful for coughs, plague, and 'procuring sleep.' By the 18th-19th century, valerian was one of the most widely prescribed sedatives in European medicine before the introduction of bromides and barbiturates."
World War I and II military medicine
- Treatment of shell shock (now PTSD) and war neurosis
- Relief of nervous tension and anxiety in civilian populations during bombing raids
- General sedative for soldiers and civilians under extreme stress
"Valerian was widely used during both World Wars to treat shell shock (combat stress) in soldiers and to calm nerves of civilian populations enduring bombing raids, particularly in Britain during the Blitz. It was one of the most commonly dispensed herbal remedies in wartime Britain when pharmaceutical sedatives were scarce or reserved for more severe cases."
[13]
Ayurvedic medicine (as V. wallichii/jatamansi - Tagar)
- Insomnia (Anidra)
- Hysteria and nervous disorders (Apasmara)
- Epilepsy
- Digestive weakness
- Menstrual disorders
"In Ayurvedic medicine, Valeriana wallichii (Tagar) is used rather than V. officinalis, but for closely overlapping indications. It is classified as bitter, pungent, and warming (Ushna Virya). Used for calming Vata disorders (nervous system imbalances). Not identical to V. officinalis but demonstrates the cross-cultural recognition of Valeriana species as nervine sedatives."
[2]
Modern Research
Systematic review of valerian for sleep disorders
Systematic review of 16 controlled studies (total 1,093 participants) assessing efficacy of valerian monotherapy for improving sleep quality.
Findings: Qualitative analysis: 6 of 16 studies reported statistically significant benefit of valerian over placebo for at least one sleep outcome. Most studies reported subjective improvement in sleep quality. Quantitative synthesis was limited by heterogeneous study designs, preparations, and outcome measures. Authors concluded evidence suggests valerian might improve sleep quality without producing side effects, but methodological problems of many studies limit the strength of this conclusion.
Limitations: Significant heterogeneity in preparations, doses, treatment durations, and outcome measures. Many studies had small sample sizes. Inconsistency between subjective improvement reports and objective sleep measures (polysomnography). Varied preparations make it difficult to compare studies.
[6]
Meta-analysis of valerian for sleep quality
Meta-analysis of 18 randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of valerian for improving sleep quality.
Findings: Valerian was associated with a statistically significant improvement in sleep quality compared to placebo, though the effect size was modest. Dichotomous outcomes showed an OR of 1.37 (95% CI: 1.05-1.78) for improved sleep with valerian vs. placebo. No significant differences in adverse events between valerian and placebo groups. Authors concluded valerian might improve sleep quality without producing side effects, but available evidence does not allow for a clear quantitative estimate of clinical effectiveness.
Limitations: Significant heterogeneity across studies. Most studies used subjective sleep quality as the primary outcome. Blinding may have been compromised by valerian's distinctive odor. Publication bias could not be excluded. Many studies had methodological weaknesses.
[7]
Valerian effects on sleep EEG architecture
Double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study of valerian extract (single dose and 14-day treatment) on sleep structure using polysomnography in 16 patients with previously established psychophysiological insomnia.
Findings: After 14 days of treatment with valerian extract (600 mg/day), there was a significant increase in slow-wave sleep (SWS) percentage and a decrease in stage 1 (light sleep) percentage compared to placebo. Sleep onset latency showed a trend toward reduction. Single-dose administration did not produce significant changes in sleep architecture. These findings suggest valerian improves objective sleep quality after repeated dosing and provide evidence for gradual onset of action.
Limitations: Small sample size (n=16). Crossover design with potential carryover effects. Only one dose level studied. Results suggest effects require repeated dosing, which complicates clinical trial design.
[8]
Early clinical trial of aqueous valerian extract for sleep
One of the first rigorous clinical trials of valerian. Double-blind crossover study comparing aqueous extract of valerian root (400 mg) to placebo in 128 volunteers for effects on subjective sleep quality.
Findings: Valerian produced a significant decrease in subjective sleep latency scores and a significant improvement in sleep quality ratings compared to placebo (P < 0.001 for both). The effect was most pronounced in self-described poor or irregular sleepers. Habitual good sleepers showed less benefit. No hangover effect was reported the following morning. Night-time motor activity (measured by wrist actimetry) tended to decrease with valerian.
Limitations: Single-night assessment. Self-reported outcomes only. Aqueous extract may not represent the full range of commercially available preparations. Crossover design with potential order effects.
[9]
Valerian for generalized anxiety disorder (pilot study)
Randomized, double-blind, pilot study comparing valerenic acid-rich valerian extract to diazepam (6.5 mg/day) and placebo in 36 patients with generalized anxiety disorder over 4 weeks.
Findings: Valerian extract (mean valerenic acid dose 81.3 mg/day) significantly reduced the psychic factor of the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) compared to placebo (P < 0.05). No significant difference between valerian and diazepam for total HAM-A score. No significant changes were detected in the somatic factor. All treatments were well-tolerated.
Limitations: Very small sample size (n=36, 12 per group). Pilot study only; insufficient power to detect moderate differences. Short treatment duration (4 weeks). Single preparation and dose level. Has not been replicated in a larger trial.
[10]
Valerenic acid mechanism: GABA-A receptor modulation
In vitro electrophysiology study investigating the mechanism of valerenic acid and hydroxyvalerenic acid at GABA-A receptors using recombinant receptor subtypes expressed in Xenopus oocytes.
Findings: Valerenic acid was identified as a positive allosteric modulator of GABA-A receptors, acting at the beta-3 subunit. This binding site is distinct from the benzodiazepine binding site (alpha/gamma interface). Valerenic acid enhanced GABA-induced chloride currents in a concentration-dependent manner. The beta-3 subunit selectivity is notable because beta-3-containing GABA-A receptors are involved in sleep regulation and anxiety. Hydroxyvalerenic acid also showed modulatory activity.
Limitations: In vitro study using recombinant receptors; in vivo relevance requires confirmation. Concentrations used may not reflect brain concentrations achievable after oral dosing. Single study; requires replication.
[16]
Valerian-hops combination for sleep improvement
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of a fixed valerian-hops combination (500 mg valerian + 120 mg hops extract per dose) in 184 adults with mild insomnia over 28 days.
Findings: The valerian-hops combination produced a modest but statistically significant improvement in sleep quality compared to placebo based on a validated sleep diary measure. Sleep quality improvement was greater at 28 days than at 14 days, supporting the concept of gradual onset of action. The combination was well-tolerated with adverse events similar to placebo.
Limitations: Combination product; cannot attribute effects specifically to valerian or hops. Modest effect size. Subjective outcome measures only. Industry-sponsored.
[11]
Valerian for dysmenorrhea
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of valerian root extract (255 mg three times daily) for primary dysmenorrhea in 100 female students, taken during the first 3 days of menstruation over 2 consecutive cycles.
Findings: Valerian significantly reduced pain severity at the end of the intervention compared to placebo (P < 0.05). The reduction in pain intensity was clinically meaningful. No significant adverse effects were reported.
Limitations: Small sample size (n=100). Short treatment duration (3 days per cycle over 2 cycles). Single-center study in a specific population (students). Subjective pain outcomes.
[12]
Preparations & Dosage
Infusion (Tea)
Strength: 2-3 g dried root per 150-200 mL water
Pour 150-200 mL of boiling water over 2-3 g (approximately 1-2 teaspoons) of coarsely cut or crushed dried valerian root. Cover and steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain. The infusion will have a strong, characteristic odor and somewhat bitter taste.
One cup (150-200 mL) 30-60 minutes before bedtime. For daytime anxiety, 1 cup 2-3 times daily.
For sleep: single dose before bedtime. For anxiety/restlessness: 2-3 times daily.
May be used for 2-4 weeks initially. If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks, consult healthcare provider. Long-term use (up to several months) appears safe based on traditional use, but periodic reassessment is advisable.
Not recommended for children under 12 years (EMA). Some practitioners use reduced doses for children 6-12 under professional guidance.
Aqueous infusion extracts GABA, some amino acids, and water-soluble constituents but is less effective at extracting valerenic acid and valepotriates (which require alcohol). The strong odor may be off-putting; combining with Melissa officinalis (lemon balm) or Matricaria recutita (chamomile) improves palatability. WHO and ESCOP monograph dosage form.
Tincture
Strength: 1:5, 70% ethanol (dried root) or 1:2, 60-70% ethanol (fresh root)
Macerate dried valerian root in ethanol-water menstruum. Typical ratio 1:5 in 70% ethanol for dried root, or 1:2 in 60-70% ethanol for fresh root. Macerate for 2-4 weeks, shaking daily. Press and filter.
3-5 mL (approximately 60-100 drops) up to 3 times daily. For sleep: single dose of 3-5 mL 30-60 minutes before bedtime, optionally preceded by an earlier dose at dinner.
For sleep: 1-2 doses in evening. For anxiety: up to 3 times daily.
2-4 weeks initially. Reassess if used longer term.
Not recommended under 12 years (EMA). Some practitioners use 0.5-1.0 mL for children 6-12 under professional guidance.
Tinctures extract a broader range of constituents than aqueous preparations, including valerenic acid, valepotriates (especially from fresh root), and lipophilic compounds. Fresh root tincture preserves more valepotriates due to their instability in dried material. The high alcohol content (70%) is necessary for adequate extraction of sesquiterpenes.
capsule-powder
Strength: Standardized extract: typically DER 3-6:1, standardized to 0.8% valerenic acid. Crude powdered root: 400-900 mg per capsule.
Dried, powdered valerian root in gelatin or vegetable capsules. Ensure product is from a reputable manufacturer with quality control for valerenic acid content.
300-600 mg dried root extract (standardized to 0.8-1.0% valerenic acid) taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Alternatively, 2-3 g of non-concentrated dried powdered root in capsules. WHO recommends 2-3 g of drug, 1-3 times daily.
For sleep: single dose before bedtime (may add a second dose at dinner). For anxiety: 2-3 times daily.
2-4 weeks for initial assessment. Effects may improve with continued use over 2-4 weeks.
Not recommended under 12 years (EMA).
Capsules bypass the strong taste and odor. Most clinical trials used standardized extracts in capsule or tablet form. The delay in onset (2-4 weeks for full effect in some studies) should be communicated to patients to prevent premature discontinuation.
Standardized Extract
Strength: DER 3-7.4:1 (extraction solvent ethanol 40-70% v/v). Standardized to minimum 0.17% sesquiterpenic acids (European Pharmacopoeia) or 0.4-0.8% valerenic acids for extracts.
Commercially prepared extracts standardized to valerenic acid content. Various extraction methods produce different constituent profiles. Follow manufacturer's specific dosing guidelines.
400-900 mg of extract (standardized to 0.4-0.8% valerenic acids) taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime. EMA: dry extract (DER 3-7.4:1, ethanol 40-70%), 144-288 mg, 1-2 times daily. Higher doses (up to 1200 mg) used in some clinical trials.
For sleep: 1-2 doses in the evening/at bedtime. For anxiety: divided doses 2-3 times daily.
2-4 weeks initially. Donath et al. (2000) showed sleep architecture improvement after 14 days.
Not established for most standardized products. Not recommended under 12 years (EMA).
Standardized extracts provide the most consistent dosing and were used in the majority of clinical trials. Products standardized to valerenic acid content are preferred for evidence-based practice. Common commercial extract ratio is approximately 4-5:1. Products include LI 156 (Sedonium), Valdispert, and various pharmacopeial-grade extracts.
Glycerite
Strength: 1:5, 60% glycerin
Macerate dried or fresh valerian root in vegetable glycerin-water mixture (typically 60-75% glycerin). Glycerites are alcohol-free alternatives suitable for children (under practitioner guidance) and those avoiding alcohol.
3-5 mL up to 3 times daily.
For sleep: 1-2 doses in evening. For daytime anxiety: up to 3 times daily.
2-4 weeks initially.
Under professional guidance only. Typical: 1-2 mL for ages 6-12.
Glycerites extract a narrower range of constituents than ethanolic preparations. Less effective at extracting valerenic acid compared to ethanol-based tinctures. Sweet taste of glycerin helps mask the bitter flavor. Suitable when alcohol must be avoided.
[13]
Essential Oil
Strength: Undiluted essential oil (for diffusion) or 2-3% in carrier oil (for topical application)
Steam-distilled essential oil from dried root. FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY in aromatherapy applications. Add 3-5 drops to a diffuser, or dilute in carrier oil (2-3% dilution) for massage application.
Aromatherapy: 3-5 drops in diffuser at bedtime. Topical: 2-3% dilution in carrier oil for temple or chest massage.
As needed, typically at bedtime.
As needed.
Not recommended for children under 6 years. Reduced concentration (1%) for ages 6-12.
The essential oil has a very strong, distinctive odor that many find unpleasant. Aromatherapy with valerian essential oil has limited clinical evidence but is consistent with traditional use. Not for internal use. Some preliminary research suggests inhalation of valerian volatile compounds may have mild sedative effects.
[13]
Safety & Interactions
Class 1
Can be safely consumed when used appropriately (AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook)
Contraindications
Although allergic reactions to valerian are rare, patients with known sensitivity should avoid all preparations.
EMA: not recommended for children under 12 due to insufficient data on safety and efficacy in this age group. Some traditional herbalists use valerian in children aged 6-12 at reduced doses under professional supervision. The AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook does not list a pediatric age restriction.
Drug Interactions
| Drug / Class | Severity | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam, alprazolam, etc.) (Benzodiazepines / CNS depressants) | moderate | Both valerian and benzodiazepines modulate GABA-A receptor function, potentially producing additive CNS depressant effects. Valerenic acid acts at the beta-3 subunit (distinct from the benzodiazepine alpha/gamma site), but functional synergy is theoretically possible. |
| Barbiturates and other sedative-hypnotics (zolpidem, zaleplon, eszopiclone) (Sedative-hypnotics) | moderate | Potential additive CNS depression through overlapping GABAergic mechanisms. |
| Alcohol (ethanol) (CNS depressants) | minor | Potential additive CNS depression. Alcohol and valerian both have GABAergic effects. |
| CYP3A4 substrates (CYP3A4 substrates) | minor | In vitro studies show weak inhibition of CYP3A4 by valerian constituents. However, clinical pharmacokinetic studies in humans have not confirmed clinically significant CYP3A4 inhibition. |
| Anesthetics (general anesthesia) (Anesthetics) | theoretical | Theoretical concern for additive CNS depression during and after surgery. |
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy
insufficient data
Lactation
insufficient data
EMA: not recommended during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. No adequate human studies of valerian use during pregnancy. In vitro cytotoxicity of valepotriates raises theoretical concern, although valepotriates are poorly absorbed orally and largely absent from processed commercial products. No teratogenic effects have been observed in animal studies at standard doses. The AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook does not list valerian as contraindicated in pregnancy but notes insufficient data. Traditional use during pregnancy was common historically, but modern evidence is inadequate to confirm safety. Advise against use during pregnancy and lactation unless the benefit clearly outweighs theoretical risks, and only under healthcare provider supervision.
Adverse Effects
References
Monograph Sources
- [1] German Commission E (Bundesinstitut fur Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte). Commission E Monograph: Valerianae radix (Valerian Root) -- Positive. Bundesanzeiger (Federal Gazette) (1985)
- [2] World Health Organization. WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 1: Radix Valerianae. World Health Organization, Geneva (1999) : 267-276
- [3] Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC), European Medicines Agency. European Union Herbal Monograph on Valeriana officinalis L., radix. European Medicines Agency (2016)
- [4] Gardner Z, McGuffin M (eds.). American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook, Second Edition. CRC Press, Boca Raton (2013) : 869-873
- [5] Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, Gruenwald J, Hall T, Riggins CW, Rister RS (eds.). The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical Council, Austin, TX (1998) : 226-227
Clinical Studies
- [6] Bent S, Padula A, Moore D, Patterson M, Mehling W. Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Med (2006) ; 119 : 1005-1012 . DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2006.02.026 . PMID: 17145239
- [7] Fernandez-San-Martin MI, Masa-Font R, Palacios-Soler L, Sancho-Gomez P, Calbo-Caldentey C, Flores-Mateo G. Effectiveness of Valerian on insomnia: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Sleep Med (2010) ; 11 : 505-511 . DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2009.12.009 . PMID: 20347389
- [8] Donath F, Quispe S, Diefenbach K, Maurer A, Fietze I, Roots I. Critical evaluation of the effect of valerian extract on sleep structure and sleep quality. Pharmacopsychiatry (2000) ; 33 : 47-53 . DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-7972 . PMID: 11172878
- [9] Leathwood PD, Chauffard F, Heck E, Munoz-Box R. Aqueous extract of valerian root (Valeriana officinalis L.) improves sleep quality in man. Pharmacol Biochem Behav (1982) ; 17 : 65-71 . DOI: 10.1016/0091-3057(82)90264-7 . PMID: 7036579
- [10] Andreatini R, Sartori VA, Seabra ML, Leite JR. Effect of valepotriates (valerian extract) in generalized anxiety disorder: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study. Phytother Res (2002) ; 16 : 650-654 . DOI: 10.1002/ptr.1027 . PMID: 12410546
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Last updated: 2026-02-26 | Status: review