What is the effect of Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)?

From the Guidelines

Valerian is not recommended as a treatment for sleep onset or sleep maintenance insomnia in adults due to lack of evidence supporting its effectiveness. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine clinical practice guideline suggests that clinicians not use valerian as a treatment for sleep onset or sleep maintenance insomnia in adults [ 1 ]. This recommendation is based on the lack of strong evidence supporting the use of valerian for insomnia treatment.

Some key points to consider when evaluating the use of valerian for insomnia include:

• The potential for valerian to interact with other medications, particularly sedatives [ 1 ]
• The lack of standardization in valerian extracts, which can affect potency and efficacy [ 1 ]
• The potential for valerian to cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances [ 1 ]

In light of these considerations, the most effective approach for managing insomnia is to use evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) or pharmacological agents like suvorexant, eszopiclone, or zolpidem, which have been shown to be effective in improving sleep outcomes [ 1 ]. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for insomnia, as they can help weigh the potential benefits and risks of different treatment options.

From the FDA Drug Label

INDICATIONS: For temporary relief of muscle spasms, tension and stress. The main use of Valerian is for the temporary relief of muscle spasms, tension, and stress 2.

From the Research

Valerian Studies

• The use of valerian for anxiety and sleep disorders has been studied in several research papers 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
• A study published in 2011 found that the evidence is insufficient regarding the efficacy of valerian in the treatment of anxiety disorders, but it seems to have some effect in mild to moderate insomnia 3.
• Another study published in 2024 found that valerian has a good safety profile, but the results showed no evidence of efficacy for the treatment of insomnia 4.
• A systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2006 found that valerian might improve sleep quality without producing side effects, but the available evidence is limited by methodologic problems and publication bias 5.
• A study published in 2003 found that 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 6.
• A systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2020 found that valerian could be a safe and effective herb to promote sleep and prevent associated disorders, but the quality control processes need to be revised 7.

Efficacy of Valerian

• The efficacy of valerian for anxiety disorders is uncertain, with some studies finding no evidence of efficacy 3, 4.
• The efficacy of valerian for sleep disorders is also uncertain, with some studies finding some evidence of effectiveness, but the results are limited by methodologic problems and publication bias 3, 5, 7.
• Valerian may be effective in improving subjective sleep quality, but the evidence is inconsistent 3, 5, 6, 7.

Safety of Valerian

• Valerian is generally considered safe, with few side effects reported in studies 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
• Valerian has a good safety profile, with no severe adverse events associated with its intake in subjects aged between 7 and 80 years 7.