Valerian Root
Valeriana officinalis
A Strong clinical evidenceDry extracts of valerian root may help with mild nervous tension and sleep problems; they work gradually, so use them for 2–4 weeks.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
On this page
At a glance
The EMA classes dry extracts of valerian root as "well-established use" for mild nervous tension and sleep disorders. Valerian root tea rests on traditional use for mild stress and to aid sleep. It works gradually, so it is not suited to acute use.
Updated: October 15, 2026
✓ This herb record is backed by official European Medicines Agency (EMA HMPC) herbal monographs.
What is it used for?
A Strong clinical evidence
Strong clinical evidence: Supported by strong human clinical trials and well-established medicinal use monographs.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Dry extracts may help relieve mild nervous tension and sleep problems. [1]
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Root tea is traditionally used for mild symptoms of stress and to aid sleep. [1]
How is it used?
Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 12 years
- Not recommended for children under 12.
- Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding because safety has not been shown.
- It works gradually and is not suited to sudden sleeplessness or acute tension.
- If symptoms worsen or do not improve within the stated time, see a doctor or pharmacist.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Stomach symptoms such as nausea or abdominal cramps (frequency unknown)
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Valerian dry extract for sleep problems is "well-established use" at the EMA, based on clinical data. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Does valerian help with sleep?
Based on clinical data, the EMA accepts that valerian dry extracts may help with mild sleep problems. The effect builds up over 2–4 weeks of regular use.
How do I make valerian tea?
Pour 150 ml of boiling water over 0.3–3 g of chopped root; for sleep, drink it 30–60 minutes before bed.
Is valerian addictive?
No dependence is reported in the EMA monograph. If your sleep problems persist, see a doctor.
Can I take valerian during pregnancy?
Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been shown, so the EMA does not recommend it.
Sources
Cite This Page
Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/valerian-root/
Related guides and comparisons
Related herbs
St. John's Wort
A Strong clinical evidenceHypericum perforatum
St John's wort extract may help with mild to moderate depressive episodes, but it seriously interacts with many medicines, including the pill.
Saffron
B Limited clinical evidenceCrocus sativus
The world's most expensive spice. Meta-analyses found 30 mg of saffron extract daily helped mild-to-moderate depression symptoms.
Rose Oil
B Limited clinical evidenceRosa damascena
Distilled from Damask roses, one of the world's most precious essential oils. Small aromatherapy studies suggest it may help ease anxiety.
Hawthorn
T Traditional useCrataegus spp.
Hawthorn leaf and flower are traditionally used for palpitations linked to mild anxiety, after a doctor has ruled out serious heart disease.
Isparta Rose Water
T Traditional useRosa damascena
The fragrant water left from distilling Isparta roses. Traditionally used as a skin cleanser and toner; food-grade rose water also flavours desserts.
Lavender
T Traditional useLavandula angustifolia
Lavender flower tea is traditionally used to relieve mild symptoms of stress and exhaustion and to aid sleep in adults and teenagers.
Other herbs in the same preparation form (Dried Herb & Tea)
Dried Herb & Tea →
Echinacea
A Strong clinical evidenceEchinacea purpurea
Juice pressed from fresh echinacea plants may help with short-term prevention and treatment of colds. Dried echinacea tea is not covered.
Psyllium Husk
A Strong clinical evidencePlantago ovata
Taken with plenty of water, psyllium husk helps soften stools in constipation; keep a gap between it and other medicines.
Senna
A Strong clinical evidenceSenna alexandrina
A stimulant laxative for short-term relief of occasional constipation. No longer than 1 week; not for children under 12, in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Ginkgo Leaf
A Strong clinical evidenceGinkgo biloba
Standardised ginkgo extract may help age-related cognitive decline and mild dementia; bleeding risk and interactions call for caution.
