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Valerian (纈草 xié cǎo)

Supplement

DisclaimerThis article is intended for informational purposes and is not intended to replace a one-on-one medical consultation with a professional. WLM researches and shares information and advice from our own research and advisors. We encourage every woman to research, ask questions and speak to a trusted health care professional to make her own best decisions.

What is it

Plant Based - made from either the roots or stem of a plant native to both Asia and Europe. Valerian is frequently taken together with Hops (flowering plant) and lemon balm (herb).

How does it help

It produces a mild sedating effect, and can aid in relaxation.

Insomnia - might be useful in managing Insomnia. It reduces the activity of a certain chemical in the brain that helps in calming down brain activity which helps induce sleep. However, clinical studies have shown no benefits or very modest benefits, which likely fall short of clinically meaningful improvement for insomnia.

Interactions

Valerian root may interact with antidepressants (SSRI/ SNRI) and anti anxiety medication.
If you are taking these types of medication, please speak with a healthcare provider before taking Valerian supplements.


Watch out with alcohol, it can have a compounding effect

Side effects

Although valerian is thought to be fairly safe, side effects such as headache, dizziness, stomach problems or sleeplessness may occur. Valerian may not be safe if you're pregnant or breast-feeding.

Scientific Evidence

What else you should know

According to Ayurveda, these symptoms are usually due to the buildup of wastes and toxins, referred to as Ama, in your body's tissues. Taking Tagar helps to remove these toxins (Ama) because of its Ushna (hot) potency which helps to digest Ama and control the symptoms of Menopause.

FAQs

What are supplements
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“Supplements” is an umbrella term encompassing vitamins, minerals, and botanicals that support our body’s functions

Source

Mirabi P, Mojab F. The effects of valerian root on hot flashes in menopausal women. Iran J Pharm Res. 2013 Winter;12(1):217-22. PMID: 24250592; PMCID: PMC3813196.

Behboodi Moghadam Z, Rezaei E, Shirood Gholami R, Kheirkhah M, Haghani H. The effect of Valerian root extract on the severity of pre menstrual syndrome symptoms. J Tradit Complement Med. 2016 Jan 19;6(3):309-15. doi: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2015.09.001. PMID: 27419099; PMCID: PMC4936757.

Taavoni, Simin MS1; Ekbatani, Neda BS1; Kashaniyan, Maryam MD2; Haghani, Hamid MS3. Effect of valerian on sleep quality in postmenopausal women: a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Menopause: September 2011 - Volume 18 - Issue 9 - p 951-955
doi: 10.1097/gme.0b013e31820e9acf

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/supplementing-your-sleep

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Written & Reviewed By
Dr BalKrishna Subedi
Dr BalKrishna Subedi
Women Like Me Team
Women Like Me Team
Last Updated
September 6, 2022 9:07 AM
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