What is valerian root used for?
People use valerian to relieve anxiety, depression, and poor sleep, and also to ease menstrual and stomach cramps. Research shows valerian has a mild calming effect that does not usually result in sleepiness the next day.2 As a sleep aid, valerian seems to be most effective for people who have trouble falling asleep and who consider themselves to be poor sleepers. It also has had good results for people who wake up during the night. Some studies show that valerian may provide quick relief for poor sleep; however, it may take 2 to 4 weeks of daily use to bring improved sleep for people with serious insomnia.
