It is believed that valerian raises a specific chemical within the brain, which in turn creates a calming impact on the body that might help treat nervousness, restlessness, and sleeplessness. While these are the more common uses for the herb, it is also believed that valerian root can be useful for ADHD.
Valerian is most renowned as being a soothing herb that helps many individuals with insomnia. However, what’s most interesting is that the herb also helps to improve concentration, reasoning abilities, energy levels, and enhance motor coordination. More recent studies have indicated that valerian sedates and controls the autonomic nervous system in individuals with control issues, that it helps regulate psychosomatic problems, and that it can also help to alleviate anxiety and restlessness.
Certain learning disabilities and behavior disorders are especially prone to the benefits of valerian root. In Europe, for around the past two decades, the herb has been seen in treating youth behavior problems like hyperactivity and learning disabilities. In a single study done in Germany, valerian extract was provided to 120 kids with an assortment of behavioral problems with impressive results. Three out of 4 of the kids in the study displayed an improvement after just 3 weeks of using the herb.
How Valerian Root Works
The herb is thought to work by boosting a specific chemical within the brain known as GABA, which works in the same way as how Valium and Xanax do by helping to relax an individual’s entire system.
The UMMC states that valerian has been seen as a treatment for anxiety for countless years and is often recommended for those with ADHD (source: UMMC Website). Nevertheless, in certain cases, it might actually increase anxiety.
Concerns With Use
It has been stated by the Mayo Clinic that valerian has been seen to help with sleep. On the other hand, there aren’t any reported studies that show what is really a safe dosage or how much time the supplement ought to be used for.
Potential Side Effects
Side effects of this herb could include headaches, nausea, grogginess each morning, blurry vision, and an irregular pulse.
When and for How Long to Use Valerian
Drugs.com states that you need to take valerian about 60-minutes before trying to go to sleep. The site also says that you shouldn’t use it for longer than fourteen days at a time.
Additional Warnings
Valerian isn’t something that those with liver problems should be taking. In addition, the Mayo Clinic suggests that breastfeeding and pregnant women should also avoid using valerian root. Before making use of the herb be sure to consult your primary health care provider.