Valerian

Roots, rhizomes and stolons of the plant are used. It contains iridoids, valepotriates, valerenic acid, steroids, essential oils, GABA and tannins ^{(fitoterapia.net)}. Unproven beneficial effects in adults: sedative, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic ^{(MayoClinic 2018, EMA 2016, MedlinePlus 2014, EMEA 2010, , WHO 1999 p267)}. Indication after Commission E of German Ministry of Health: insomnia, nervousness, anxiety. ^{(Blumenthal 1998)}

At last update significant data on breastfeeding were not found.

A commonly used herb in many cultures and countries, even during pregnancy and breastfeeding ^{(Zaffani 2006)} without clear evidence of its efficacy ^{(Taibi 2007, Bent 2006, Prescrire 2005)} or its safety. ^{(Kennedy 2013, Sachs 2013, Consolini 2010, Cuzzolin 2010, Holst 2008, Tesch 2003)}

There are very few serious side effects reported, such as liver and pancreatic toxicity ^{(Douros 2013, Bunchorntavakul 2013, Teschke 2012, Cohen 2008)} and it has little risk if if not abused. ^{(MedlinePlus 2014, EMEA 2010, Taibi 2007)}

Moderate use is considered to be compatible with breastfeeding, however because of the possibility of sedative effect in infants should better be avoided in cases of prematurity and in the neonatal period ^{(Royal W.2013)}. Be aware of sedative effects in the infant.

 

Precautions when taking plant preparations ^{(Anderson 2017, Powers 2015, Posadzki 2013, Efferth 2011, Kopec 1999, Hsu 1995)}:

• Make sure they are from a reliable source: poisonings have occurred due to confusion of one plant with another with toxic properties ^{(Hsu 1995)}, poisonings due to containing heavy metals extracted from the soil, and food poisoning due to contamination with bacteria or fungi. ^{(Anderson 2017)}
• Do not take in excess; follow the recommendations of expert phytotherapy professionals. “Natural” products are not good in any quantity: plants contain active substances from which much of our traditional pharmacopoeia has been obtained and can cause poisoning or act as endocrine disruptors if consumed in quantity or for an exaggerated time because they contain phytoestrogens. ^{(Powers 2015, Zava 1998)}