Valerian Root

Valerian is an herb found in Europe and parts of Asia. The root has been used for years for its medicinal qualities. Valerian root has often been referred to as “natures’ valium” due to its ability to offer calmness and reduce insomnia. It has similar relaxation effects as passion flower. It has also been used for many years to decrease hot flashes in postmenopausal women.

Another double-blind randomized controlled study found that valerian root can effectively reduce severity of tension-type headaches.

Valerian root's benefit in recovery after surgery is in its ability to promote decreased anxiety, and offer relaxation while improving post-surgical insomnia.*

Sources:

Jenabi E, Shobeiri F, Hazavehei SMM, Roshanaei G. The effect of Valerian on the severity and frequency of hot flashes: A triple-blind randomized clinical trial. Women Health. 2018;58(3):297-304.

Mineo L, Concerto C, Patel D, et al. Valeriana officinalis Root Extract Modulates Cortical Excitatory Circuits in Humans. Neuropsychobiology. 2017;75(1):46-51.

Taavoni S, Ekbatani N, Kashaniyan M, Haghani H. Effect of valerian on sleep quality in postmenopausal women: a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Menopause. 2011;18(9):951-955.

Azizi H, Shojaii A, Hashem-Dabaghian F, et al. Effects of Valeriana officinalis (Valerian) on tension-type headache: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Avicenna J Phytomed. 2020;10(3):297-304.

Chen JH, Chao YH, Lu SF, Shiung TF, Chao YF. The effectiveness of valerian acupressure on the sleep of ICU patients: a randomized clinical trial. Int J Nurs Stud. 2012;49(8):913-920.

Wagner J, Wagner ML, Hening WA. Beyond benzodiazepines: alternative pharmacologic agents for the treatment of insomnia. Ann Pharmacother. 1998;32(6):680-691.

*Disclaimer:  If you suffer from any medical illness or have medical concerns or questions, please speak with your healthcare provider. The information on wound healing found on this site is derived from peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies, links to which are available under “Sources.” However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.