Is Valerian safe?
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Safety of Valerian: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Valerian Safety
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a popular herbal remedy commonly used to treat sleep disorders and anxiety. Despite its widespread use, questions about its safety and efficacy remain. This article synthesizes findings from multiple studies to provide a clear understanding of valerian's safety profile.
Safety Profile of Valerian
General Safety and Adverse Events
Multiple studies have consistently reported that valerian is generally safe for use, with rare adverse events. A systematic review of 37 studies found that valerian is associated with only rare adverse events, supporting its safety as a sleep aid. Another comprehensive review involving 60 studies also concluded that there were no severe adverse events associated with valerian intake in subjects aged between 7 and 80 years. Additionally, a randomized trial involving 405 participants reported no serious adverse events and no significant differences in minor adverse events between valerian and placebo groups.
Safety in Special Populations
Valerian has also been studied in specific populations, such as children with intellectual deficits. A randomized trial found that valerian treatment led to significant improvements in sleep quality without any reported adverse effects, suggesting its safety in this vulnerable group. Furthermore, a review on the interaction potential of valerian with anticancer drugs concluded that there is no specific evidence questioning its safety, even in cancer patients.
Comparative Safety with Other Treatments
In a study comparing valerian-hops combination and diphenhydramine for treating mild insomnia, both treatments were found to be safe with no significant residual effects or rebound insomnia upon discontinuation. This indicates that valerian is as safe as other commonly used over-the-counter sleep aids.
Efficacy and Safety in Anxiety Disorders
While valerian is primarily used for sleep disorders, its safety in treating anxiety disorders has also been explored. A review of a randomized controlled trial involving patients with generalized anxiety disorder found no significant differences in side effects or dropout rates between valerian, diazepam, and placebo groups, further supporting its safety.
Impact on Cognitive and Motor Functions
Concerns about valerian's impact on cognitive and motor functions, such as driving, have been addressed in a study that evaluated the effects of a one-time 1600mg dose of valerian. The study found no significant differences in driving simulator performance or subjective sedation effects between valerian and placebo, indicating that valerian does not impair cognitive or motor functions at this dosage.
Conclusion
Overall, the evidence strongly supports the safety of valerian as a herbal remedy for sleep disorders and anxiety. It is associated with rare adverse events and does not significantly impair cognitive or motor functions. However, while valerian is safe, its efficacy, particularly for sleep disorders, remains inconclusive and warrants further investigation.
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