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Valerian Root Side Effects & Safety

Evidence:Moderate
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Safety Profile

Overall safety rating: Generally Safe

Potential Side Effects

  • Generally well tolerated
  • Headache (uncommon)
  • Gastrointestinal upset (uncommon)
  • Vivid dreams (occasionally reported)
  • Morning drowsiness at high doses (uncommon)
  • Distinct strong odor of capsules and tinctures (due to isovaleric acid)

Drug & Supplement Interactions

  • Sedative medications (benzodiazepines, zolpidem) — potential additive sedation
  • Alcohol — additive CNS depressant effects
  • Anesthesia — discontinue 2 weeks before surgery (may prolong sedation)
  • CYP3A4 substrates — valerian may mildly inhibit CYP3A4 metabolism
  • Other sedating herbs (kava, hops) — additive effects, often combined intentionally but monitor for excess sedation

Maximum Dose

Do not exceed: 900mg/day (no additional benefit demonstrated above 600mg)

Full Valerian Root Guide

References

  1. Meta-analysisBent S, Padula A, Moore D, Patterson M, Mehling W (2006). Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Medicine. DOI PubMed
  2. Meta-analysisFernández-San-Martín MI, Masa-Font R, Palacios-Soler L, et al. (2010). Effectiveness of Valerian on insomnia: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Sleep Medicine. DOI PubMed
  3. RCTLeathwood PD, Chauffard F, Heck E, Munoz-Box R (1982). Aqueous extract of valerian root (Valeriana officinalis L.) improves sleep quality in man. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior. DOI PubMed
  4. Meta-analysisShinjyo N, Waddell G, Green J (2020). Valerian Root in Treating Sleep Problems and Associated Disorders-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. Journal of evidence-based integrative medicine. DOI PubMed
  5. RCTRoh D, Jung JH, Yoon KH, Lee CH, et al. (2019). Valerian extract alters functional brain connectivity: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial.. Phytotherapy research : PTR. DOI PubMed
  6. Boniel T, Dannon P (2001). [The safety of herbal medicines in the psychiatric practice].. Harefuah. PubMed
  7. Dominguez RA, Bravo-Valverde RL, Kaplowitz BR, Cott JM (2000). Valerian as a hypnotic for Hispanic patients.. Cultural diversity & ethnic minority psychology. DOI PubMed