DRUG INTERACTIONS
The Natural Standard cautions that valerian may increase the amount of drowsiness brought on
by other drugs or herbs. Berkeley Wellness specifically counsels that valerian not be taken with
alcohol, tranquilizers or barbiturates. Valerian interacts with anesthetics and so must be
discontinued before surgery.
SIDE EFFECTS
Valerian can cause mild side effects, such as occasional gastrointestinal effects, headaches,
dizziness, excitability, uneasiness, unsteadiness, low body temperature, tiredness the morning
after its use, and a “hangover” from large doses. Similarly, "valerian withdrawal" may occur if
the consumer stops using the drug suddenly after long-term high-dose use. This may entail
confusion and rapid heartbeat. Valerian is classified by the FDA as "generally regarded as safe,"
and some researchers refer to valerian as “quite safe.” Long-term use may result in insomnia.
Slight reductions in concentration and ability to perform complicated thinking may occur for
few hours after taking valerian. Use caution if driving or operating heavy machinery.
Brown et al. caution against use of valerian in pregnancy or in association with hepatic disease.
Safety for children has been more studied but is still controversial. Accordingly, it cannot be
recommended. In the absence of a standard extract, no recommendation can be made on
dosage.
CONCLUSION
Promising, but not yet proven. The split of the sources confirms that this is a controversial
supplement, even though it appears benign (except for the odor and taste).