Valerian
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, is an herb that can be taken as a tea or a supplement. It is commonly used for its sedative and anxiety-reducing effects.
Quick Answer
What it is
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, is an herb that can be taken as a tea or a supplement. It is commonly used for its sedative and anxiety-reducing effects.
Key findings
- Grade C: Insomnia Signs and Symptoms (Insomnia)
- Grade C: Menopausal Symptoms (Insomnia)
- Grade C: Fatigue Symptoms (Sleep Health)
Safety
No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.
ℹ️ Quick Facts: Valerian
Quick Facts: Valerian
- Best Evidence:Grade C
- Conditions Studied:9
- Research Outcomes:20
- Key Effect:Insomnia
Detailed Outcomes
Evidence by Condition
Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)
Research Citations (12)
Related Supplements
Saffron
5 shared conditions · 390 outcomes
Saffron is a spice with antioxidant properties derived from the flowering plant Crocus sativus. When used as a supplement, saffron seems to be effective at reducing symptoms of depression and possibly anxiety.
Magnesium
5 shared conditions · 248 outcomes
Magnesium is an essential dietary mineral that is involved in energy production, nervous system function, blood pressure regulation, and blood glucose control. A lack of magnesium in the diet — which is common in modern societies — is associated with an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health conditions.
Lavender
5 shared conditions · 57 outcomes
Lavender is a plant in the Lamiaceae (mint) family. It is an aromatic plant, and its essential oil is often used in aromatherapy for relief of stress and anxiety.
Ginkgo Biloba
5 shared conditions · 173 outcomes
Ginkgo biloba is the most commonly ingested herb for brain health. While it may boost cognition in older populations, this effect is not very reliable or generalizable.
Vitamin D
4 shared conditions · 308 outcomes
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our skin synthesizes when exposed to the sun. It benefits us in many ways, from bone health to mood.
Lemon Balm
4 shared conditions · 55 outcomes
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a bushy perennial herb in the mint family that has been used in food for over two thousand years. Oral ingestion of lemon balm may help reduce anxiety and depression and improve sleep. Supplementation with lemon balm can also improve blood lipids and blood pressure. When applied to the skin, lemon balm may help with cold sores.
Vitamin B6
3 shared conditions · 12 outcomes
Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for health. After ingestion, it is converted into a coenzyme that supports the function of numerous enzymes in the body important for brain and cognitive development, immune function, and metabolic processes. Although deficiencies are rare, people on specific medications or with distinct medical conditions may require supplementation.
Passionflower
3 shared conditions · 14 outcomes
Passionflower is a woody, flowering vine used as a calming supplement for both anxiety and sleeping disorders. There are many different forms of the supplement, including tea, liquids, capsules, and tablets. It is generally well-tolerated with limited side effects.