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Valerian
Valeriana officinalis
A listing is not a recommendation.
Origin: Europe · Tradition: European herbal practice (for sleep) · Food & herbs
What it is
A traditional sleep herb using the root. It is sold as a supplement or tea. The scent is strong.
A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)
- Do not use it for a long time on your own judgement in place of a sleep medicine. Start with sleep hygiene.
- If you use it, choose a product of clear quality, and watch for sleepiness the next day.
- Do not combine it with other sedatives or with alcohol.
Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice
- Sleeplessness
- Stress or unease
Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)
C: Preliminary, small, or lower-quality studies, or mixed results. These notes should not be over-read
NCCIH states that valerian has not been shown to be useful for insomnia. MSK also organises the evidence as mixed.
Sources
Safety notes
Sedation the next day, the liver, and interactions. Report it before surgery.
If you are unsure, or if you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicine, consult a qualified professional.
Situations in which this is better avoided
- Combining it yourself with other sedatives
- A first use before driving or operating machinery
- Liver disease: consult a professional