Valerian Root Side Effects

Valerian, also known as the garden Valerian and garden heliotrope, is a perennial flowering plant, characterized by sweetly scented flowers, either pink or white in color. The plant native to Europe and northern Asia was introduced in North America by Europeans. It adapted to the damp areas of the American continents very well. In the northern hemisphere, the plant blooms between June and September. The herb is used to treat various medical conditions, prominent one being insomnia.

Valerian Root Uses

With several benefits to its credit, Valerian plant has been used by mankind for over a 1,000 years. In pharmacology, the roots of this plant are processed to produce capsules, which can be used for various effects including sedation and anxiolytic. Being in the concentrated form, the capsules are quite beneficial to health. The root of the Valerian plants tends to relax the central nervous system and decrease the levels anxiety and stress. One of the most prominent benefits of Valerian roots is its use as sleep enhancer. This benefit is acknowledged by millions of people across the world.

Valerian Root Side Effects

Although it's one of the best natural sleep aids, not everything is good about the herb! Valerian side effects are also very popular among individuals. The very fact that the herb tends to relax the central nervous system shows that the herb can have side effects when the individual gets used to it and also upon withdrawal. Although the herb is non-toxic, studies have revealed that long term use of valerian can trigger a series of side effects in an individual. Valerian root side effects may vary from person to person. The common side effects of Valerian are:

• Drowsiness.
• Inability to concentrate.
• Sleepiness during the day.
• Diminishing short-term memory.
• Headaches

In order to avoid these side effects of Valerian, the person should ensure that he gets sleep for at least 6 to 8 hours after taking it.

More Severe Side Effects of Valerian

More importantly, people who are taking prescription medications, such as Xanax and Valium, should avoid Valerian, as it tends to interact with such medications. One of the most common Valerian root side effects, liver damage is most often noticed in people who indulge in alcohol abuse while taking Valerian root extract to tackling sleep disorders. Owing to lack of evidence, medical science doesn't support some Valerian root side effects. Dreams and hallucinations are important examples of this. Being in concentrated form, Valerian root extract side effects are more severe than Valerian side effects. An individual can experience Valerian tea side effects, which include loss of muscle function and heart problems, when he is addicted to Valerian tea.

Dependence of Valerian roots can be harmful for the body, but sudden withdrawal from the same can also trigger some serious complications. Valerian side effects do tend to disturb your healthy lifestyle, but that is not a compulsion. At times, you may observe some side effects of Valerian, which would not disturb you at that point of time, but may prove to be harmful over the course of time. And hence, it's important to consult a doctor when any of the aforementioned Valerian side effects are observed.

Valerian root is indeed one of the most effective herbs when it comes to calming the central nervous system and anxiety symptoms, but owing to the above mentioned Valerian root side effects one should be cautious when taking it. For instance, either taking it continuously for 2 weeks or abruptly ceasing the use of the same, both tend to have adverse effects on the body and hence are best avoided. Many people are affected by these side effects of Valerian roots, but being a bit cautious with the usage of the same can make it an incredible herb.