Journal of Traditional Medicine & Clinical Naturopathy
Open Access

Valerian is a traditional herbal sleep remedy that has been studied with a variety of methodologic designs using multiple dosages and preparations. Research has focused on subjective evaluations of sleep patterns, particularly sleep latency, and study populations have primarily consisted of self-described poor sleepers. Valerian improves subjective experiences of sleep when taken nightly over one- to two-week periods, and it appears to be a safe sedative/hypnotic choice in patients with mild to moderate insomnia. The evidence for single-dose effect is contradictory [1]. Valerian is also used in patients with mild anxiety, but the data supporting this indication are limited. Although the adverse effect profile and tolerability of this herb are excellent, long-term safety studies are lacking.

Nervousness issues and rest issues are normal in everybody and are a reason for incessant interviews in essential consideration. These issues have huge effect on personal satisfaction and usefulness of people. The concentrates of valerian root have been generally utilized for quite a while by the populace and doctors, for their soothing impacts, mesmerizing and anxiolytic [2]. It is accordingly earnest to understand what the advantages and the dangers are of utilizing this substance for the treatment of ten sion and rest issues.

In trial tests we found that convergence can usually be achieved in a mean of three gyrations (s.d. +/-1.2). Most searches converge very quickly. Even in the most intractable cases, it is rarely the case that convergence is not achieved. However, it is better to keep going beyond 3 quantum units of evidence as each additional factoid generates a multiplier effect up until around 8 quanta’s, beyond which the utility begins to diminish [4]. To illustrate, to complete this brief note we relied on only five gyrations excluding self-citation.

The gyrational approach has humorously been likened to a dog chasing its tail. There is an element of truth in this characterization, but in this case the tail chasing is less a sign of obsessive-compulsive disorder and more a sign of myopia [5].

Objective Study

To investigate the efficacy and safety of valerian for the treatment of anxiety and sleep disorders. A research was carried out for clinical practice guidelines, systematic reviews (SR), meta-analysis (MA) and randomized controlled trials (RCT) in, sites of evidence-based medicine and Index das Revitas Medicos Portuguesa’s using the MeSH terms valerian, anxiety, and sleep disorders, and respective DeCS, analyzing. We used the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT) from American Family Physician to evaluate the level of evidence and assigning the strength of a recommendation [3].

The evidence is currently insufficient to recommend the use of valerian for the treatment of anxiety disorders. The evidence in insomnia is limited by the contradictory results of studies reviewed and their methodological problems, although it seems to have some effect in mild to moderate insomnia. Despite that, valerian is a safe substance. More RCT are needed, with samples of adequate size, with standardization of measures to assess quality of sleep and levels of anxiety and standardization of dose, type of preparation of valerian used and the time for its use. Sometimes referred to as “nature’s Valium,” valerian is a flowering plant whose roots are thought to induce tranquillity and a sense of calm. Valerian root may be dried and consumed in capsule form or steeped to make tea.

Its use can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was taken to relieve restlessness, tremors, headaches, and heart palpitations [4]. Today, it is most often utilized to treat insomnia and anxiety. Valerian is relatively safe, though it may cause mild side effects like headaches and digestive issues. You shouldn’t take it if you’re on any other sedatives due to the risk of compounding effects, such as excessive malaise and drowsiness [5].

There is less published research on the effects on other conditions. However, some studies suggest that valerian root can provide benefits for:

Menopause: One study in menopausal women found significant reductions in hot flash severity and modest reductions in hot flash frequency during eight weeks of treatment with 765 mg of valerian daily.

Menstrual problems: Women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or painful menstruation may benefit from valerian. One study found it improved physical, emotional and behavioural symptoms of PMS.

Restless legs syndrome: An eight-week study in people with restless legs syndrome showed that taking 800 mg per day improved symptoms and decreased daytime sleepiness.

Parkinson’s disease: A study found that treating mice with Parkinson’s disease with valerian extract led to better behaviour, a decrease in inflammation and an increase in antioxidant levels.