Valerian For Anxiety - Pharmacist Reveals How Well It Works

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a perennial flower that is commonly used to treat insomnia.

It has a natural sedative effect and is believed to be useful in treating generalized anxiety disorders (GAD).

Let's look at some research studies on the use of valerian for treating anxiety and panic attacks...

Most studies done with valerian are focus on this herb's sedative effects and its use a natural sleep aid.

We did find two studies that looked at using valerian to help treat anxiety disorders. The good news is that both of them reported positive benefits for valerian in its ability to help reduce anxiety symptoms.

Study #1

Effect of valepotriates (valerian extract) in generalized anxiety disorder: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study.
Andreatini R, Sartori VA, Seabra ML, Leite JR.
Phytother Res. 2002 Nov;16(7):650-4.

In this study, 36 volunteers were assigned to either valerian, Valium (diazepam) or placebo (sugar pill control group). The study lasted for 4 weeks (after 2 weeks of being free from any herbs or medications).

In both the valerian and Valium groups, the volunteers reported reduced anxiety symptoms.

Keep in mind that this is a small study (which the researchers commented as well). But this positive result is reassuring to many who may want to try valerian for anxiety symptoms.

Study #2

Anxiolytic effects of a combination of Melissa officinalis and Valeriana officinalis during laboratory induced stress.
Kennedy DO, Little W, Haskell CF, Scholey AB.
Phytother Res. 2006 Feb;20(2):96-102.

In this randomized double-blinded study involving 24 healthy volunteers, a single dose of valerian plus lemon balm (either 600 mg, 1200 mg or 1800 mg) were given.

The researchers measured their mood and anxiety levels before given this combination herb, 1 hour, 3 hour and 6 hours after the single dose.

The results? The dose of 600 mg of valerian and lemon balm reduced anxiety levels. The 1200 mg dose also worked. However, unexpectedly, the 1800 mg dose showed an increase in anxiety.

This surprising result goes to show that more is not necessarily more effective. Sometimes, it can have the opposite effect!

And what about using valerian for panic attacks?

Unfortunately, no one has done any scientific studies to find out if using valerian for panic attacks would actually work. Anecdotal reports suggest that it could work.

In theory, it could work based on our current (albeit limited) understanding of how panic attacks take place.

Valerian holds promise as an potentially effective natural remedy to help with anxiety disorder. It can be be very useful in many people who are looking for a natural solution to help cure anxiety problems.

Another effective option is to use combination herbal products like PureCalm. It contains passionflower, lemon balm and lavender, three herbs proven to help reduce anxiety and stress.

PureCalm It is professionally formulated by a clinical psychologist using the Full Spectrum Approach (FSA) to ensure the highest quality, safety and effectiveness. The company backs the product with a 1-year money back guarantee.

Valerian for Anxiety - How Well Does It Work?