Many people use Valerian Root ro help them through bouts of
sleeplessness. As its popularity grows, so does the curiousity
about
potential side
effects. Aside from being a very
natural alternative to
over-the-counter synthetic drugs, it's surprisingly safe. However, just
as any other herb or plant used for consumption, it has its limits.
While
Valerian is absolutely fabulous for treating insomnia, it's also used
for various other afflictions such as anxiety as a result of alcohol
withdrawl, panic related anxiety, the flu, and muscle aches and pains.
Knowing that, you may get a slight idea of the general effects of
Valerian just by estimating the reverse feelings of the above
descriptions - envision aa calm, tranquil state.
With that in
mind, the side effects that you can expect to experience are
semi-obvious. Drowsiness and or lack of ability to remain alert are the
most common of the side effects. Because this root aids insomnia
(inability to sleep), the drowsiness that accompanies that makes it
unsafe for driving, operating heavy machinery, or any other activity
that requires the participant to be alert.
The proper dosage of
Valerian Root is appx. 18-24 grams (1tsp liquid or 400-450mg of the
root in caplets). There has only been one reported overdose while using
Valerian Root in 1995 and the user took over 20 times the recommended
dosage and the user recovered within 24 hours.
Other potential side effects when taking Valerian in larger doses
are nausea, dizziness, restlessness, blurry vision, and excitability.
These, however, have only been reported after very large doses have
been consumed - often times with the accompaniment of alcohol, which is
strongly discouraged.
When using this root for insomnia, do not
take it (or any other sleep aid) for more than two week periods. You
should not get accustomed to taking a sleep aid in order to sleep - you
need to assist your body in learning how to sleep at appropriate times.
However, using a natural product to aid your body in its habits is
highly preferable in comparison to using synthetic, over-the-counter
drugs to chemically alter your body's state.
Valerian
Root is a safe, natural sleep aid.Take only the recommended dose of
18-24 grams (or 1tsp liquid).Do not make the use of Valerian Root a
habit in order to get to sleep - use it as an aid.