However, Mischoulon and Rosenbaum emphasize the 2007 meta-analysis by Taibi et
al.,^5 with a subtitle that summarizes the evidence to date: “safe but not effective.” The
analysis included 37 studies, of which 29 were placebo-controlled. None of the rigorous
studies found any significant effect of valerian on sleep.^6
Lake and Spiegel (in the Ayurveda discussion authored by Prathikanti), state that seven
randomized, placebo-controlled studies support use of valerian for the treatment of
insomnia.
The Natural Standard is quite negative about the use of valerian for insomnia,
qualifying it as “C,” “unclear scientific evidence for this use.” The Natural Standard
recounts the history of valerian use in the United States from the mid-1800s to our era,
when it has been replaced by sedatives and analgesics. It remains popular in North
America, Europe and Japan.
The Mayo Clinic gives valerian a green light, and stating that: “Valerian appears to be
beneficial for insomnia ... and is generally safe at recommended doses.” However, the
clinic recommends using valerian in short courses of treatment, “no more than a few
weeks at a time.”
Weil recommends valerian pills or capsules for insomnia.^7
Berkeley Wellness, while discussing the positive trials, concludes that, “there is
inadequate scientific evidence to show the efficacy of valerian in treating ... insomnia.”
Berkeley Wellness concludes in particular that it has yet to be shown that valerian
affects the “quality” of sleep, for which a sleep laboratory would be required.
Valerian’s safety during pregnancy and breast-feeding is unknown. Brown et al. caution
against use in pregnancy or in association with hepatic disease. Safety for children has
been more studied but is still controversial.
- SUGGESTED BUT UNPROVEN USES: ANXIETY, HEADACHES, DEPRESSION, MENOPAUSAL
SYMPTOMS, SEDATION, IRREGULAR HEARTBEAT, AND TREMBLING
Brown et al., Brown et al. II, Mayo and Weil all support the use of Valerian for mild
anxiety. Mischoulon and Rosenbaum, the Natural Standard, and Berkeley Wellness do
