Difficulty falling asleep, light sleep, persistent nervousness at bedtime… Many people seek a natural alternative before resorting to (or returning to) sleeping pills. Valerian ( Valeriana officinalis ) is one of the most widely used plants in herbal medicine to promote more restful sleep and soothe mild nervous tension . But “natural” doesn’t mean “risk-free”: form, dosage, duration of treatment, and interactions are all important factors.

In this guide, you will understand what valerian is used for , what the literature says (without excessive promises), how to use it correctly , and above all, in which cases to avoid it .

Valerian: what exactly is it?

Name, parts used and composition

Valerian roots and rhizome are primarily used . They contain, in particular, valepotriates and other compounds involved in the sedative/relaxant effect described in herbal medicine (including valerenic acid ).

Why its action is “less simple” than that of a drug

The exact mechanism of action remains incompletely understood and may involve a combined effect of the constituents rather than a single isolated molecule. As a practical consequence, effectiveness varies depending on the quality of the extract , its standardization , and the sleeper's profile.

What are the uses of valerian (common valerian)? (expected benefits)

Sleep: especially falling asleep and perceived quality

Valerian is traditionally used for nervousness associated with sleep disturbances . Studies suggest a possible benefit on overall sleep quality , nighttime awakenings). Effects may require 2 to 4 weeks of use, and a single dose may be insufficient.

Stress and agitation: useful if it's mild (and if sleep is affected)

For nervous agitation and mild anxiety , valerian is often used alone or in combination (e.g., lemon balm, hops, passionflower). The evidence is more heterogeneous than for its use in treating nervous tension and sleep.

“Nervous” palpitations: be careful not to mask an underlying medical cause

Valerian is sometimes prescribed for adults experiencing palpitations of nervous origin. However, if you have palpitations accompanied by chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or a pre-existing heart condition, medical advice should be sought first .

Real effectiveness: what you need to understand to avoid disappointment

Why “it works for some and not for others”

1. Non-standardized extracts (different contents): difficult to compare studies.
2. Multifactorial insomnia (stress, screens, alcohol, sleep apnea, pain, etc.).
3. Time to action : often gradual (2–4 weeks).

The right criterion for success

Instead of aiming for a "10-minute KO", aim for:

• more regular sleep onset
• less tension at bedtime
• a feeling of more restorative sleep over several weeks.

How to use valerian (forms + dosage)

Golden rule: opt for a legible form (clear dosage) and a treatment with a defined timeframe .

Infusion (herbal tea): useful, but less precise dosage

Common reference points:

• 2 to 3 g (≈ 1 tsp) per cup of boiling water
• 2 to 3 cups per day , including 1 within the hour before bedtime

Another guideline (insomnia): 2–3 g infused for 5–10 min in 150 ml, 30 to 60 min before bedtime .

Standardized extract / capsules: the “precision” choice

• Sleep disorders: standardized extract 400 to 600 mg , 30 to 60 min before bedtime.
• Agitation/anxiety (guidelines): standardized extract 250 to 400 mg , 3 times/day .

Dyeing: flexible, but be careful with alcohol

• Tincture (1:5): 4 to 6 ml 30 to 60 min before bedtime.

Treatment duration: how long?

• Valerian is generally used for to 6 weeks) .
• If there is no effect after 2 to 4 weeks or if the symptoms persist: seek medical advice .

Common mistakes to avoid

• Underdose for 2–3 days then conclude “it doesn’t work”.
• Multiply the sedatives (valerian + alcohol + H1 antihistamine + sleeping pill).
• Driving/operating machinery after taking the medication may result in decreased alertness.

Safety: side effects, contraindications and interactions

Possible side effects

Rather rare, but possible:

• headaches, digestive problems, dizziness;
• drowsiness (sometimes in the morning, especially at high doses);
• More rarely: paradoxical insomnia in some.

Contraindications / Strong precautions

• Liver disorders : caution as a precaution (cases of liver toxicity have been reported).
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding : avoid as a precaution.
• Children : not recommended (especially before age 12 according to some sources).
• Driving/machinery : may decrease alertness.

Drug interactions (critical point)

Valerian may increase drowsiness and potentiate the effects of CNS depressants. Caution/medical advice is advised if you are taking :

• sleeping pills, tranquilizers ( benzodiazepines ),
• antidepressants , antiepileptics , neuroleptics,
• opioids , H1 antihistamines .

• Alcohol : to be avoided (additive sedative effects).
• Anticoagulants : possible interaction (caution).
• Iron : possible decrease in absorption → avoid simultaneous intake.

Stopping and “withdrawal syndrome”: especially in cases of prolonged use

Prolonged use beyond the recommendations may lead to paradoxical (long-term) insomnia and, upon abrupt cessation, to a possible withdrawal syndrome (palpitations, agitation).

Expert “sleep” protocol 

Steps (10 minutes setup)

1. Choose a form : standardized extract if you want a reliable dosage, infusion if you prefer ritual + hydration.
2. Define the objective : “sleepiness” (take 30–60 min before) vs “nervous tension” (spread throughout the day).
3. Continue for a minimum of 14 days (unless there is an adverse effect): the effect is often not immediate .
4. Measure : time of extinction, sleep latency, awakenings, form upon waking.
5. Stop/seek medical advice if: worsening, bothersome drowsiness, unusual symptoms, or no improvement after 2–4 weeks.

FAQ 

Does valerian (Valeriana officinalis) make you sleepy?

It can make it easier to fall asleep and improve perceived sleep quality , especially if insomnia is related to mild nervous tension . The effect may take 2 to 4 weeks , and results vary.

What are the contraindications of valerian?

As a precaution, it is not recommended in cases of liver problems , during pregnancy/breastfeeding , and for children . Caution is also advised if you need to drive (possible decrease in alertness).

How long can valerian be taken for?

In practice, treatments are usually short : typically 2 to 6 weeks . If there is no improvement after 2 to 4 weeks , seek medical advice.

Which medication should not be taken with valerian?

Avoid self-medication if you are taking sedatives/hypnotics , benzodiazepines , antidepressants , antiepileptics , opioids or H1 antihistamines : valerian may increase drowsiness . Medical advice is recommended.

Does valerian have any side effects?

They are generally rare, but possible: headaches , digestive problems , dizziness , drowsiness (sometimes in the morning).

Is it safe to drive after taking valerian?

It is not recommended if you experience a decrease in alertness . The risk increases at high doses or in combination with other sedatives (including alcohol).

Conclusion

Valerian well -known herbal remedy for mild sleep disturbances related to nervousness: it can help, but best used as a course of treatment , with an appropriate dosage and strict precautions (vigilance, alcohol, drug interactions, liver, pregnancy). To maximize your chances, choose a well-dosed form, take it for at least two weeks, and monitor your results.

If you are already taking medication (sedatives, antidepressants, antiepileptics, anticoagulants) or if your sleep problems persist, have the use of valerian by a healthcare professional before starting a course of treatment.