Valerian health benefits
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has traditionally been used to
treat insomnia, hysteria, hypochondria, nervous headaches and migraines
It has also been used throughout history to treat cramps and rheumatic pains.
Valerian can be used to treat:
Insomnia
Depression (in combination with St John's wort)
Anxiety (in combination with St John's wort)
Stress
Restlessness
Migraine
Nervous Headache
Cramps
Intestinal colic
Period pain
Rheumatic pains
Epilepsy
Side effects and contraindications
Studies suggest that valerian is generally safe to use for short periods of time (eg 4 to 6 weeks). There has been no research on long term use.
Valerian can cause mild side effects, such as headaches, dizziness, upset stomach, and tiredness the morning after its use.