valerian
Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a traditional herb used in European and folk medicine for centuries. It has been traditionally employed to treat sleep disturbances and mild insomnia. Scientific evidence suggests that valerian may have anxiolytic and sedative effects, with some studies indicating potential benefits for insomnia treatment; however, the clinical outcomes are variable and more research is needed. Valeriana species influence neurotransmission, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate hepatic and gastrointestinal functions, which could contribute to its use in sleep disorders. While no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, it is important to monitor its use due to potential risks.
- 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 valerian?
valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What is valerian traditionally used for?
Traditional sources record valerian for: sleep disturbances / mild insomnia. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.
Which traditions use valerian?
valerian appears in these traditions in our sources: Western phytotherapy.
What does the scientific evidence say about valerian?
4 sourced findings are recorded for valerian; 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 valerian?
The strongest finding for valerian carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is valerian safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for valerian in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does valerian interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for valerian in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of valerian?
valerian is also known as: валериана, Valériane.
Is valerian 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