How Is Valerian Root Used for Social Anxiety

How Is Valerian Root Used for Social Anxiety Social Anxiety Disorder Treatment and Therapy Print How Is Valerian Root Used for Social Anxiety? By Arlin Cuncic Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of Therapy in Focus: What to Expect from CBT for Social Anxiety Disorder and 7 Weeks to Reduce Anxiety. Learn about our editorial policy Arlin Cuncic Updated on October 07, 2019 Social Anxiety Disorder Overview Symptoms & Diagnosis Causes Treatment Living With In Children Siri Stafford/Photodisc/Getty Images In This Article Table of Contents Expand Administration Dosage Effects Contraindications Interactions Side Effects Risks View All Valerian root (valeriana officinalis) is derived from a plant that originally comes from Europe and Asia. The root of this plant has been used for thousands of years as a remedy for various conditions including the following: Sleep problemsDigestive problemsDisorders of the nervous systemHeadachesArthritis Administration Valerian root can be taken as a capsule, tea, tablet, or liquid extract. It should be taken 30 minutes to two hours before bedtime. Dosage Guidelines Dosage for the treatment of insomnia ranges from 300 to 600 mg of liquid root extract, or the equivalent of 2 to 3 g of dried valerian root. Lower dosages are typically used for the treatment of nervous tension and when the root is used in combination with other supplements.   Before taking valerian root, you should read the product label and discuss the dose with a qualified health care provider. Effects It is believed that valerian root has an impact on the availability of the  neurotransmitter  GABA  in the brain.  On the whole, research suggests that valerian root has mild sedative and tranquilizing propertiesâ€"less than prescription sleep medication.   Even though valerian root is used for a variety of problems, there is not enough research evidence to support the effectiveness of the herb. Use of valerian root as a sleep aid is supported by some evidence from clinical trials; however, these studies tend to be small and not conducted with strict standards. There isnt enough research evidence to support the use of valerian root in the treatment of anxiety disorders such as  social anxiety disorder (SAD). However, some people who take the supplement regularly have shared that it makes them feel calm, and reduces nervous tension and stress. Who Shouldn’t Take It You should not take valerian root if you are pregnant or nursing, or if you suffer from liver disease. If you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), other antidepressants and certain other classes of medication,  Valerian root should be used with caution, and may not be appropriate in those cases. Medication Interactions Valerian root may make you feel drowsy if you take it with prescription medications such as: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)BenzodiazepinesNarcotics such as codeineBarbiturates such as phenobarbitolOver-the-counter cold and sleep remedies In general, you should check the package insert and speak with a qualified healthcare professional and/or pharmacist about possible interactions. Side Effects Side effects of valerian root are rare but may include headache, upset stomach, daytime drowsiness,  and dizziness. Associated Risks Unlike prescription sleep medications, valerian root is not believed to carry a risk of dependency. However, the supplement should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional, and caution should be used if you are taking the supplement over an extended period of time. Do not operate heavy or dangerous machinery until you know how the supplement affects you. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the production of herbs and supplements. Most herbs and supplements are not thoroughly tested, and there is no guarantee about the ingredients or safety of the products. It may be wise to consult with your doctor before taking valerian root for social anxiety disorder. The 7 Best Online Anxiety Support Groups