Valerian Root Facts

Identification

• Valerian plants grow to approximately 2 feet tall. They have hollow stems and opposite dark green leaves. Fragrant light purple, pink or white flowers blossom in June. The root, which is light gray in color, has little odor when fresh, but older roots have a sharp or unpleasant odor, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Function

• Valerian root is used as a mild sedative. It reduces anxiety and restlessness and works as a sleep aid. Valerian root is also used to treat the pain from stomach or menstrual cramps. Although researchers are not sure exactly how valerian works, they believe that it increases a chemical in the brain called gamma aminobutyric acid, or GABA, that has a calming effect on the mind and body.

Considerations

• Valerian can increase the effects of certain medications such as tricyclic antidepressants and anti-convulsants; specific enzymes in the liver break down valerian, so the herb may interact with other medications such as anti-fungal drugs, antihistamines and cholesterol-lowering drugs that are broken down by the same enzymes. Valerian also increases the effects of anesthesia. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises patients to talk to their doctors before using valerian.