Unveiling Valerian Essential Oil Side Effects and 10 Must-Know Benefits

Few plants have garnered as much attention and intrigue as valerian root in the vast realm of herbal remedies. With this in mind, join me as we take a closer look at the valerian essential oil side effects and benefits.

A botanical treasure with a rich tapestry of history, Valerian has journeyed through time, offering solace to ancient civilisations and finding its place in modern wellness practices.

Valerian root, known scientifically as Valeriana officinalis, has been a cornerstone in traditional medicine since the times of ancient Greece and Rome. This perennial plant, native to Europe and Asia, was historically prescribed by renowned physicians like Hippocrates and Galen to treat ailments such as insomnia. ¹

Fast forward to today, and Valerian has seen a resurgence in interest, especially in its essential oil form. As a popular ingredient in modern wellness practices, Valerian essential oil is often sought after for its potential sedative properties, offering a natural solution to those grappling with nervous tension and sleep disturbances.

Sources of Valerian Root

Valerian is a plant that is native to Europe and Asia and also grows in North America. Historically, valerian has been used for medicinal purposes since the times of early Greece and Rome. The roots and rhizomes (underground stems) of the Valerian plant are the parts that are primarily used for medicinal purposes.

Today, Valerian is known for its potential therapeutic properties, and its roots are often sought after for various health applications.^{2 3}

Modern Cultivation and Harvesting Practices of Valerian Root

With the increasing demand for Valerian root in the herbal industry, common Valerian has transitioned from being primarily wild-collected, to being cultivated on a commercial scale, especially in northern parts of Europe and America.

In Poland, specific species such as ‘Polka’, ‘Norweski’, and ‘Lubelski’ have been developed for cultivation. These species, also known as landraces, are tailored to meet the high requirements of the herbal industry. ⁴

The underground parts of the Valerian plant are rich in sesquiterpenic acids and essential oils. The content of these compounds can vary based on the specific population of the plant. ⁴

The roots and rhizomes of the valerian plant are the primary parts harvested for medicinal use. The timing and method of harvesting can influence the chemical composition and potency of the final product.

By focusing on sustainable and efficient cultivation and harvesting practices, the modern herbal industry ensures a consistent supply of high-quality Valerian root for various therapeutic applications.

The HerbiTea Team have put a lot of effort into sourcing the highest quality valerian root which features in their Sleepy Tea blend. For me, knowing that they are committed to quality is a huge plus.

Common Valerian Root and Valerian Essential Oil Side Effects

Valerian root is a natural remedy often used to promote sleep. While many people find it beneficial, it’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects of valerian.

Generally, Valerian root is considered to produce fewer side effects than many other sedative or hypnotic medications. However, some individuals may experience:

• Headache ⁵
• Upset in the stomach like diarrhea and constipation ⁶
• Changes in heart rates ⁶
• Feeling of uneasiness ⁷
• Drowsiness ⁸

The valerian root’s effects can vary based on the dosage taken. It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, including valerian root.

10 Impressive Benefits of Valerian Oil

Despite the Valerian root and Valerian essential oil side effects outlined above, the essential oil has been cherished for centuries for its myriad of health benefits.

This potent oil, with its distinctive woody and earthy aroma, has been used in traditional medicine practices to promote relaxation, alleviate insomnia, and even combat nervous disorders. Personally, I find that goes well with Clary Sage for me. So soothing!

But the health benefits of valerian oil don’t just stop there. Let’s delve deeper into the therapeutic advantages of this nature’s elixir:

1. Prevents Heart Palpitations
   1. Valerian essential oil has been linked to a lower occurrence of heart palpitations. The volatile compounds in this oil interact with the heart’s acids and oils, stimulating a more regular metabolic rate and calming the erratic behaviour of the cardiovascular system. However, individuals with severe heart and circulatory issues should avoid taking baths with valerian essential oil remedies. Yet, certain individuals have reported experiencing heart palpitations as a potential side effect when either using or discontinuing valerian root. It’s important to note that these accounts are anecdotal and lack a basis for formal research. ^{9 10}
2. Skin Care
   • Valerian essential oil can be a help for skin health. Whether applied topically, it infuses the skin with protective oils that guard against wrinkles, and skin problems (open wounds) and also acts as an antiviral barrier. ¹⁰
3. Regulates Blood Pressure
   • The active ingredients in valerian root that aid in stress and anxiety relief also help regulate blood pressure. High blood pressure can strain the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of strokes and heart attacks. Valerian essential oil can naturally mitigate these risks. ¹¹
4. Improves Cognitive Abilities
   • Valerian root has been celebrated as a cognitive enhancer for ages. It stimulates various brain areas and boosts circulation, rejuvenating pathways that keep our minds sharp. It’s consumed globally by students for better academic performance and by the elderly to protect memory and delay cognitive disorders like dementia. ¹²
5. Reduces Menstrual Cramps
   • The relaxing properties of valerian essential oil have made it a sought-after remedy for menstrual therapy. It can alleviate the severity of menstrual cramps and provide relief from discomfort during menstruation and pregnancy. ¹³
6. May reduce the feeling of Stress, Anxiety and Depression
   • Research revealed that individuals who consumed 300mg of valerian root extract daily over a span of four weeks experienced notable decreases in brain activities linked to anxiety, especially when under psychological stress. Also, valerian root may be beneficial in alleviating anxiety symptoms stemming from sleep deprivation. ¹⁴
7. Remedy for Digestive Issue
   • Valerian root has the potential to induce mild to moderate oral and gastrointestinal reactions. Historically in Europe, Valerian has been employed to address digestive issues like constipation due to its ability to enhance intestinal function. However, its laxative properties can occasionally lead to undesirable outcomes, such as an upset stomach or diarrhea. ¹⁵
8. Muscle Soother
   • Valerian oil has a relaxant effect on skeletal muscle, potentially offering a muscle relaxant benefit with fewer side effects. ¹⁶
9. May Combat Breast Cancer
   • Valerian root contains valeric acid, which has shown the potential to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. This effect is possibly due to valeric acid’s ability to influence epigenetic gene regulation, such as inhibiting histone deacetylases. The findings suggest valeric acid could be a potential therapeutic agent for breast cancer treatment. ¹⁷
10. Relieve Pain
    • Historically, valerian was employed as a remedy for pain relief. ¹⁸

Valerian oil stands as a testament to nature’s profound ability to heal and rejuvenate. With its array of health benefits of valerian root, from promoting relaxation to enhancing cognitive abilities, this essential oil is truly a holistic gem.

As we continue to explore the scope of valerian essential oil’s side effects and benefits and understand its full potential, you may see why it continues to remain a beacon of natural wellness and therapeutic promise.

Valerian Tea vs Valium: Is Valium Made from Valerian Root?

Valerian tea is a natural beverage made from the roots of the valerian plant, which has been traditionally used for its calming and sedative properties, especially to promote sleep and reduce anxiety. It works by potentially increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect.

On the other hand, Valium, or diazepam, is a prescription medication that belongs to the benzodiazepine class. It is used to treat conditions like anxiety, seizures, and muscle spasms.

Valium also affects GABA in the brain but more potently and directly. While both valerian root and Valium can induce relaxation and sedation, they differ in strength, origin, and potential side effects.

It’s essential to note that Valium is a controlled substance that can lead to dependence and should only be taken under medical supervision. ^{19 20}

Valerian Root vs Valium; It’s a Question of Nature vs Man

Valerian root and Valium are both known for their sedative properties, but they originate from different sources and have distinct mechanisms of action.

As we have covered, Valerian root is a natural herb that has been traditionally used for its calming effects, especially to alleviate sleep disorders and reduce anxiety.

On the other hand, Valium is a synthetic drug, and it is among the most successful drugs from the onset of the psychopharmacological revolution that began during the 1950s.

It is efficacious in treating a wide range of CNS disorders, including anxiety and epilepsy. Diazepam works by being a positive allosteric modulator of the GABA A receptor complex, binding to a unique site on the alpha-gamma subunit interface.

This interaction increases neuronal chloride-ion influx upon GABA binding, resulting in hyperpolarised postsynaptic membranes, enhancing the CNS depression response to endogenous GABA. ²¹

While both valerian root and Valium affect the GABA system in the brain, Valium does so more directly and potently. So, the question you may be pondering at this stage is one where you are choosing between natural or synthetic.

It’s very important to understand that while valerian root is a natural remedy, Valium is a controlled substance with potential side effects and risks of dependence. Therefore, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making decisions about using either for therapeutic purposes.

Natural Valium Alternative

Natural alternatives to Valium have gained popularity among individuals seeking non-pharmaceutical solutions to anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. These alternatives aim to provide relief without the potential side effects and dependency risks associated with benzodiazepines.

Some of the most commonly considered natural alternatives include herbal remedies like valerian root, passionflower, and kava kava. These herbs have been traditionally used for their calming and sedative properties. ²²

Additionally, magnesium supplements are often recommended as they can help regulate the nervous system and reduce symptoms of anxiety. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy can also serve as effective non-drug strategies, helping individuals address the root causes of their symptoms and develop coping mechanisms. ²³

Lastly, lifestyle changes, such as incorporating meditation, deep breathing exercises, and regular physical activity, can also play a significant role in managing anxiety and stress without resorting to medications.

FAQs

Conclusion

In the realm of natural remedies, valerian essential oil stands out as a beacon of holistic wellness. Its myriad of benefits, coupled with its rich history, makes it a fascinating subject. Yet, like all things, it’s essential to approach its use with knowledge and understanding, especially concerning its side effects.

As we’ve journeyed through the intricacies of valerian and its comparison to pharmaceutical counterparts like Valium, it’s evident that nature offers us profound tools for well-being. But remember, every individual’s journey is unique.

We invite you to continue the valerian essential oil side effects conversation with us. Dive deeper, ask questions, and share your thoughts on the valerian essential oil side effects and benefits on Instagram and Pinterest pages. Let’s cultivate a community where knowledge meets passion, and where every story is valued. Join us, and let’s explore the world of natural wellness together!

References

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Last Updated on 3 months by D&C Editorial Team