Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a traditional medicinal plant with roots in European and Asian herbal practices. It has been traditionally used to address sleep disturbances and mild insomnia, reflecting its historical use in folk medicine. Scientific evidence suggests that Valeriana species may have anxiolytic and sedative effects, potentially due to their modulation of neurotransmission and reduction of oxidative stress; however, the clinical outcomes are variable and require further investigation. While studies indicate potential benefits for insomnia, more research is needed to confirm these findings. Safety data shows no major issues recorded, but its use should be monitored carefully due to potential risks. There are currently no reported drug interactions with Valeriana officinalis, though this does not preclude the possibility of future discoveries in this area.
- Traditionally for
- sleep disturbances / mild insomnia
- Traditions
- Western phytotherapy
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
Traditional use
What the science says
- The study found that hydro-alcoholic extracts from Valeriana officinalis and Chelidonium majus showed promising wound healing rates in Wistar rats, though more investigations are needed.
- Valeriana officinalis demonstrated anxiolytic and sedative effects in clinical studies, but its use requires careful monitoring due to potential risks.
- Valeriana species modulate neurotransmission, reduce oxidative stress, and influence hepatic and gastrointestinal functions, showing potential for insomnia treatment but with variable clinical outcomes.
- Valerian extract in drinking water reduced corticosterone levels and tended to lower the heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in laying quails, without impacting productivity or overall egg quality.
Frequently asked questions
What is Valeriana officinalis?
Valeriana officinalis (Valeriana officinalis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What is Valeriana officinalis traditionally used for?
Traditional sources record Valeriana officinalis for: sleep disturbances / mild insomnia. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.
Which traditions use Valeriana officinalis?
Valeriana officinalis appears in these traditions in our sources: Western phytotherapy.
What does the scientific evidence say about Valeriana officinalis?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Valeriana officinalis; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: The study found that hydro-alcoholic extracts from Valeriana officinalis and Chelidonium majus showed promising wound healing rates in Wistar rats, though more investigations are needed.
How strong is the evidence for Valeriana officinalis?
The strongest finding for Valeriana officinalis carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Valeriana officinalis safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Valeriana officinalis in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Valeriana officinalis interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Valeriana officinalis in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Valeriana officinalis?
Valeriana officinalis is also known as: Валериана лекарственная, valériane officinale.
Is Valeriana officinalis a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Efficacy and Safety of Herbal Supplements with Anxiolytic, Antidepressant, and Sedative Action: A Review of Clinical Data and Toxicological Risks. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effects of drinking water valerian extract and stocking density on stress, performance, and egg quality in laying Japanese quails. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Valeriana species and insomnia: multi-organ mechanisms and translational perspectives. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Wound Healing Traits of Chelidonium Majus and Valeriana Officinalis Hydro-Alcoholic Extracts on Surgical Wounds in Wistar Rats. literature abstract metadata
- T1 WHO monograph: Radix Valerianae © WHO — attribution