Valerian
( Valeriance officinalis)

General Description:  Perennial plant that produces cream-colored flowers.

Part Used:  Rhizome

Uses: 

  sedative

   lowers blood pressure

  insomnia

   restlessness

  relaxes smooth muscle

  mood swings

  night cramps

  menstrual pain

 

Actions:  Acts on CNS as sedative and mild hypnotic properties.  It effects the same neurotransmitters as benzodiazepines and barbiturates.   Anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and bactericide properties. 

Dosage:  Oil - topically 1-2 times/day

               Root - 2-3 g. in tea, several times a day

               Extract - 150-300 mg dried extract. 

               Tincture - 3-5 ml several times a day

Precautious/Adverse Effects: Rare, safe and approved for food use by the
FDA.  If chronically used, can experience GI upset, headache, uneasiness and cardiac disturbances. Safe in pregnancy, however always consult health care provider.

         Interactions with other Drugs:  anxiolytics, hypnotics, analgesics, and anti-epileptics.  

         Interactions with other Herbs:  Enhances effects of kava, passion flower, lemon balm, hops, poppy, and skullcap. 

Contraindications:  Schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. Also, hepatic impairment.  

Nursing Considerations:

 Tell patients to take 1 hour before bedtime if used for insomnia.

             It will not decrease night awakenings.

  Do not use concurrently with a sedative, may potentate effects.

  Has no effect with alcohol (Contradictory studies).

  Monitor liver function test.