--- title: "Valerian Root: Benefits, Uses & Side Effects | Herbadex" description: "Dry extracts of valerian root may help with mild nervous tension and sleep problems; they work gradually, so use them for 2–4 weeks." language: en url: https://herbadex.com/en/herb/valerian-root/ source: Herbadex (https://herbadex.com) --- [Dried Herb & Tea](https://herbadex.com/en/form/dried-herb-tea/) # Valerian Root Valeriana officinalis A Strong clinical evidence Dry extracts of valerian root may help with mild nervous tension and sleep problems; they work gradually, so use them for 2–4 weeks. [Sleep, Stress & Mood](https://herbadex.com/en/for/sleep-stress/) Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim Pregnancy **⚠ Avoid** Breastfeeding **⚠ Avoid** Children **⚠ Avoid** Drug interactions **No recorded interactions** ## 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. **Parts used:** root **Key constituents:** Valerenic Acid & Valepotriates 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 Dry extracts may help relieve mild nervous tension and sleep problems. \[1\] - T Traditional use Root tea is traditionally used for mild symptoms of stress and to aid sleep. \[1\] ## How is it used? ### Tea Pour 150 ml of boiling water over 0.3–3 g of chopped root. For sleep, drink it 30–60 minutes before bed. **Amount:** For tension up to 3 times daily **Duration limit:** Regular use for 2–4 weeks is recommended \[1\] ### Food Dry extract: 400–600 mg per dose (follow the product label). **Amount:** Max 4 doses a day \[1\] ## 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. \[1\] ### 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 1. [European Union herbal monograph on Valeriana officinalis L., radix](https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-monograph/final-european-union-herbal-monograph-valeriana-officinalis-l-radix_en.pdf) EMA HMPC · 2016 ### Cite This Page Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/valerian-root/ ## Related guides and comparisons - [Understanding Evidence Levels (A, B, C and T)](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/understanding-evidence-levels/) - [Valerian or Passion Flower?](https://herbadex.com/en/compare/valerian-vs-passion-flower/) ## On this page At a glance What is it used for? How is it used? Safety & interactions Did you know? Frequently asked questions Sources Related herbs ## Related herbs ### [St. John's Wort](https://herbadex.com/en/herb/st-johns-wort/) A Strong clinical evidence Hypericum perforatum St John's wort extract may help with mild to moderate depressive episodes, but it seriously interacts with many medicines, including the pill. 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