Natural Medicines Newsletter

Volume 1, Issue 7, 03/05/2009

Question

How does the herb valerian (Valeriana officinalis) work to treat insomnia?

Answer

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) extract comes from a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia, but is also found in North America.(1-3)  It is most commonly used for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders and its use dates back to the times of ancient Greece and Rome.(1,2,4-7)  It is also permitted or considered an acceptable option for sleep related disorders in the U.K. (Medicines Control Agency), Canada (Health Canada), Australia (Therapeutic Goods Administration), Germany (Commission E) and France.(3,8,9)  Valerian comes in a number of dosage forms (dried root, tincture, and fluid extract) and contains bornyl acetate, sesquiterpenoids (valerenic acid, acetoxyvalerenolic acid) and some lipophilic iridoids called valepotriates.(10)  While the specific ingredient responsible for the activity of valerian has not been identified, it is thought that a combination of sesquiterpenoids and valepotriates may be involved in its mechanism of action(8,10)  According to the National Sleep Foundation, over 50% of American adults experience one or more symptoms of insomnia at least a few nights a week.(11)  In addition, self-treatment of various problems by patients (especially with the use of natural or herbal medicines) is on the rise across the world(12-14)  Therefore, there is a good chance patients will consider the use of valerian to treat their sleep related problems.  So, how does valerian work to improve sleep problems or insomnia?......To read the full answer please LOGIN or SUBSCRIBE NOW.

There is also a figure showing the mechanism of action of valerian provided.