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Valerian

Also called: Valeriana officinalis

A root used for centuries to help people fall asleep. Its earthy smell is strong, so most people take it as a capsule.

Supplements can interact with medications and aren't right for everyone, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with a chronic condition. Ask your provider before you start.

Studied for

  • Trouble falling asleep
  • Restlessness
  • Mild anxiety

Found naturally in

  • Valerian root, traditionally brewed as tea

Label red flags

  • Sleep blends that hide the valerian amount

Check with a provider

  • Taking sedatives, sleep medicines, or alcohol (effects add up)
  • Driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you
  • Liver problems (rare liver injury has been reported)
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding (not enough safety data)

Supplements that contain it

3 products in Dr. Lesher's dispensary list valerian on the label.

Parts of the body it affects

Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.

Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0

Dr. Lesher, ND

Ready to find the root cause?

Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.

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