Valerian Root Side Effects

Valerian root side effects are important to note prior to starting to take this natural sleep aid for your sleep problems. Valerian root is a plant that's been used for centuries. The Ancient Greeks first used it to aid with digestion. Later, it was used by others to improve nervous system disorders. Today, herbalists have learned that it can also work very well as a sleep aid.

Valerian root is a natural sleep aid

Many people who suffer from mild to moderate insomnia can use valerian root to enable them to fall asleep. In some studies, it has shown the ability to decrease the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. After taking valerian root, you may notice some side effects. This is common since valerian root calms the central nervous system.

The side effects you experience from valerian root are specific to you. Some common side effects may not disturb your lifestyle too much, but you should mention them to your doctor to ensure no potentially harmful side effects happen.

• Valerian root is a natural diuretic. It causes your body to naturally lose excess water weight. Those who tend to visit the restroom during the night may find that this natural remedy actually worsens this need.
• Complications may happen later. In some studies, there is evidence that long term use of valerian root can bring on headaches and may cause agitation. In some patients, insomnia developed.
• Those taking prescription medications should not use it. Those who are taking anxiety medications or other prescriptions, including barbiturates and benzodiazepines should not take valerian root. This includes medications like Xanax, Valium and Ativan. The valerian root will interact with these medications.
• Don't suddenly stop taking it. Due to the way it works in the body, it shouldn't be stopped suddenly. Rather, the body needs to be weaned from the valerian root. This protects the central nervous system.

Those who potentially could be allergic to the natural herb should check with their doctor prior to using it. Allergic reactions may cause swelling and difficulty breathing.

Other valerian side effects are more obvious as you start to take the herbal remedy to treat insomnia or other sleep disorders:

• Drowsiness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Lack of ability to remain alert during the day
• Sleepiness during the day
• Difficulty with short-term memory

These side effects are to be expected in most people after they take a dose of the treatment. To avoid complications, take the valerian root about an hour before bed. Be sure you can dedicate at least six to eight hours to sleep after taking it.

Keep in mind that valerian root is a highly effective tool at calming the central nervous system. Therefore, use it cautiously. You should not use the herbal remedy for longer than two weeks at a time. Slowly stop taking the root after that time and avoid using it for several weeks prior to using it again.

Avoid taking valerian root with alcohol. It can seriously impair your ability to communicate and may cause life threatening poisoning depending on the amount you have taken. Avoid taking it with any other type of drug as well, especially illegal drugs.

Like most other sleep aids, valerian root can cause dependency problems. Some individuals find they are unable to fall asleep without its use. Avoid this by using this herbal treatment only when you need to. Use it infrequently whenever possible. Be sure to keep dosing low to avoid becoming dependent. Most herbalists recommend taking 18 to 24 grams.

Valerian root side effects happen to many people. With careful management of its use, this herbal product can be incredibly useful in treating insomnia.

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