10 Precautions To Take When Using Valeriana Officinalis (Valerian)

Valeriana officinalis has some precautions to consider before using it medicinally, such as consulting with a healthcare professional, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may stimulate the uterus and cause contractions.

It's also essential to start with low doses and gradually increase as needed, as taking high doses can lead to drowsiness, headaches, and stomach upset.

Failing to do so may result in unpleasant side effects, such as feeling overly sedated or experiencing gastrointestinal issues.

This article explains in details the 10 most important precautions to take when using Valeriana officinalis medicinally.

1. Use under healthcare professional guidance

When using Valeriana officinalis medicinally, it's important to take with food only.

This precaution is crucial because taking valerian on an empty stomach can cause stomach upset, nausea, and dizziness due to the herb's sedative properties.

When taken with food, valerian's active compounds are better absorbed and processed by the body, reducing the risk of adverse effects and ensuring a more effective therapeutic outcome.

2. Use under healthcare professional guidance

When using Valeriana officinalis medicinally, it's important to start with low dose slowly.

This precaution is crucial because valerian can have a sedative effect and interact with certain medications, such as sedatives, antidepressants, and blood thinners.

Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it allows the body to adjust to the herb's effects, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions or unintended sedation.

3. Use under healthcare professional guidance

When using Valeriana officinalis medicinally, it's important to avoid in pregnancy first trimester.

This precaution is crucial because valerian can stimulate uterine contractions and potentially cause miscarriage or premature labor. Additionally, the herb may alter estrogen levels, which could impact fetal development during this critical period.

To ensure a healthy pregnancy outcome, it's recommended that pregnant women consult with their healthcare provider before using valerian supplements.

4. Use under healthcare professional guidance

When using Valeriana officinalis medicinally, it's important to consume responsibly at all times.

As this herb can cause drowsiness and sedation, combining it with other sedatives or alcohol may exacerbate its effects, potentially leading to impaired cognitive function and increased risk of accidents.

Additionally, valerian may interact with certain medications, such as antidepressants and blood thinners, so caution is advised when taking it in conjunction with prescription drugs.

5. Use under healthcare professional guidance

When using Valeriana officinalis medicinally, it's important to consult a doctor for medical history.

This precaution is crucial because valerian can interact with certain medications, such as sedatives and blood thinners, which may exacerbate existing conditions or increase the risk of adverse effects.

Additionally, individuals with liver or kidney disease, epilepsy, or bleeding disorders should exercise caution when using valerian to ensure safe and effective treatment.

6. Use under healthcare professional guidance

When using Valeriana officinalis medicinally, it's important to use for short periods only.

This precaution is crucial because prolonged consumption of valerian can lead to tolerance and decreased effectiveness, making it less reliable for treating anxiety and insomnia. Moreover, excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea.

Taking valerian for limited durations ensures optimal benefits while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions.

7. Use under healthcare professional guidance

When using Valeriana officinalis medicinally, it's important to be cautious with sedatives combined.

Combining valerian with sedatives can increase the risk of excessive drowsiness and respiratory depression, especially in people with pre-existing sleep disorders or respiratory conditions. This is because valerian has a synergistic effect on GABA receptors, amplifying its sedative properties when taken with other sedatives.

It's crucial to carefully monitor dosage and interactions to avoid adverse effects, particularly in individuals who are sensitive to sedatives or have a history of substance abuse.

8. Use under healthcare professional guidance

When using Valeriana officinalis medicinally, it's important to monitor blood pressure regularly.

This is crucial because valerian can lower blood pressure, which may be beneficial for those with hypertension, but also poses a risk of hypotension in individuals who are already taking blood pressure-lowering medications or have underlying cardiovascular conditions.

Regular monitoring allows for prompt adjustments to treatment and ensures safe use of valerian.

9. Use under healthcare professional guidance

When using Valeriana officinalis medicinally, it's important to inform pharmacist of supplement use.

This precaution is crucial because Valeriana officinalis can interact with certain medications, such as sedatives, antidepressants, and blood thinners, which may lead to adverse effects or decreased efficacy. Additionally, valerian may exacerbate allergies or asthma symptoms.

By informing the pharmacist, patients can ensure safe and effective treatment while avoiding potential complications.

10. Use under healthcare professional guidance

When using Valeriana officinalis medicinally, it's important to monitor sleep quality closely.

This precaution is crucial because excessive use or high doses of valerian can cause drowsiness and sedation, potentially leading to rebound insomnia and sleep disruptions upon discontinuation.

By tracking sleep patterns, users can adjust the dosage or frequency of administration to achieve a therapeutic response without compromising their overall sleep health.