Valerian Root

Medicinal Benefits of Valerian Root Tea

Valerian root tea, made from the roots and rhizomes of the Valeriana officinalis plant, has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health concerns, with its most prominent benefits supported by traditional use and some scientific studies.

Key Medicinal Benefits:

• Promotes Better Sleep and Treats Insomnia
  Valerian root tea is widely recognised for its mild sedative properties, making it one of the most popular herbal remedies for insomnia and sleep disturbances. It may help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep, improve sleep quality, and promote deeper sleep cycles. While evidence is mixed and often based on small studies, many people report subjective improvements in sleep.

• Reduces Anxiety and Stress
  Valerian root may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain, which calms nerve activity and promotes relaxation. This calming effect can also help manage daily stress and nervous restlessness.

• Eases Menopausal and Menstrual Symptoms
  Some studies suggest that valerian root tea can help reduce hot flashes in menopausal women and may alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and painful menstruation. Its relaxing effect may also benefit those experiencing mood swings or irritability related to hormonal changes.

• Supports Digestive Health
  Valerian root tea may help ease mild digestive complaints such as indigestion, stomach cramps, bloating, and constipation by relaxing smooth muscles in the digestive tract.

• May Help with Restless Legs Syndrome
  Preliminary research suggests that valerian root could improve symptoms of restless legs syndrome and decrease associated daytime sleepiness.

Safety and Precautions:

• Valerian root tea is generally considered safe for short-term use by most adults, typically up to 4–8 weeks.

• Common side effects include headache, dizziness, stomach upset, mental dullness, vivid dreams, and drowsiness.

• It may cause excessive sedation if combined with alcohol, sleep aids, or other sedative drugs.

• The safety of valerian during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not established, so it should be avoided in these populations.

• Long-term safety is unknown, and abrupt discontinuation after chronic use may cause withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety or irritability.

Valerian root tea is most commonly used for sleep and relaxation, but may also offer relief for anxiety, menopausal symptoms, and mild digestive discomfort. While generally safe for short-term use, it should be used with caution and not combined with other sedatives or alcohol.

Citations:

1. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/valerian
2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/valerian-tea
3. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-valerian-root
4. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/valerian
5. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/valerian-root
6. https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/valerian-root
7. https://www.republicoftea.com/blog/tea-culture/8-valerian-root-tea-benefits/tc-039/
8. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/valerian.html
9. https://healthtea.ie/product/valerian-root/
10. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-870/valerian