How to Take Valerian Root for Health

Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) is a flowering plant native to Europe and parts of Asia that also has been introduced to North America. It is also known as garden valerian and all-heal. The following steps will help you decide whether or not to take this herbal supplement.

Instructions

• 1

  Read about the history of valerian as a medicine. It was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans as a sedative and was described by Galen and Hippocrates. It also has been used as an anti-convulsant and pain reliever.

• 2

  Examine valerian's use as a treatment for anxiety, insomnia and a muscle relaxant. It is sold as a dietary supplement and not subject to regulation by the Food and Drug Administration.

• 3

  Look at the scientific studies that have been conducted on valerian. The results strongly support valerian's effect as a sedative (most often through the reduction of sleep latency), although the mechanism of action is not understood and the FDA does not classify it as a medication.

• 4

  Study the side effects of valerian root. Valerian is considered safe and side effects are rare. Valerian should not be taken in combination with other sedatives. Valerian can be considered a good herbal choice for treating mild insomnia.

• 5

  Take no more than the recommended dosage of valerian. The most common dosages range from 300 to 600 mg to be taken within two hours of bedtime. A tea can also be made with 2 to 3 grams of dried valerian root.