Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Shiyan Ooi
,
School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester
Valerian root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and stress reliever, but it's essential to understand its potential side effects before incorporating it into your routine.
While valerian root is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as:
These effects are usually temporary and subside as the body adjusts to the supplement (National Institutes of Health).
Although rare, some individuals may experience more serious side effects, including:
Valerian root should not be combined with medications that affect the central nervous system, such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants, or sleep aids.
Valerian root may not be suitable for:
To minimize risks, follow these guidelines when taking valerian root:
Valerian root is a natural and effective sleep aid for many individuals, but it is essential to use it responsibly. Consult a healthcare provider if you have underlying health conditions or take other medications.
Dr. Shiyan Ooi
Dr. Shiyan Ooi is a medical doctor with over a decade of experience treating patients with chronic conditions. She graduated from the University of Manchester with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB UK) and spent several years working at the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom, several Singapore government hospitals, and private functional medicine hospitals. Dr. Ooi specializes in root cause analysis, addressing hormonal, gut health, and lifestyle factors to treat chronic conditions. Drawing from her own experiences, she is dedicated to empowering others to optimize their health. She loves traveling, exploring nature, and spending quality time with family and friends.