Valerian is probably the most known of all calming herbs. It contains many active molecules including valepotriates, sesquiterpenes and a volatile oil containing bornyl derivatives. GABA and some GABA receptor lignans have also been identified.

Many studies reached the conclusion that the whole Valerian extract is more effective than any of its individual parts.

Valerian is probably the best-known of all calming herbs. It has been used since time immemorial for all kinds of nervous conditions. According to some authors, its name comes from the Latin « valere » which means « to feel good, to be healthy.

During the Middle Ages and the Antiquity, Valerian was considered as a panacea. It was used to treat anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, hysteria, depression, headaches, cramps, asthma, coughs, etc. During the reign of the Sun King Louis XIV, Valerian was even considered as a perfume! More recently, only its sedative and antispasmodic uses are accepted.

Most people suffer, at one time or another, of nervous problems and/or insomnia. To the stress of modern life, add the reduction of sleeping time (an average of one hour less per night than our ancestors of a hundred years ago) and insomnia and nervous problems reach epidemic heights. Sleeping pills and tranquilizers are widespread but their effects on vigilance and mental acuity discourage their use (and for a very good reason).

Adults and children over 12:
For anxiety and tension: 10 drops 3 times daily.

For sleeplessness:
30 – 50 drops at bedtime.

Children 6 – 12:
For anxiety and tension: 5 drops 3 times daily.

For sleeplessness:
15 – 25 drops at bedtime.

Tincture of organically grown fresh Valeriana officinalis (Valerian) roots, extracted in alcohol. (56% V/V).

Valerian is probably the most known of all calming herbs. It contains many active molecules including valepotriates, sesquiterpenes and a volatile oil containing bornyl derivatives. GABA and some GABA receptor lignans have also been identified.(2) Many studies reached the conclusion that the whole Valerian extract is more effective than any of its individual parts.

Known as a sedative and hypnotic, Valerian is effective against occasional insomnia and anxiety. It is also used for its antispasmodic(1) effect and as supportive therapy for depression.

Valerian’s active ingredients are still the object of debates. In vivo, valepotriates reduce benzodiazepine weaning, link with GABA receptors, etc. Yet, valepotriates are very unstable and degrade under heat and in acid (like the stomach) or alkaline environments. It is however possible that they might act as pro-medications: their degradation products, baldrinal and homobaldrinal, might have some therapeutic effects.(3)
Sesquiterpenes like valerinic acid and kessylglycol have demonstrated a sedative in vivo activity. Moreover, they increase GABA levels, a neurotransmitter with a calming effect on the nervous system.

Whatever its active ingredients, Valerian’s effects on nervousness, anxiety, insomnia and as an antispasmodic have now been proven.

The German Commission E acknowledges its benefits in cases of: restlessness, sleeping disorders based on nervous conditions

A randomized placebo-controlled study conducted on 16 patients yielded significant results on sleep patterns (measured by EEG) as well as on sleep perception by the patients themselves.

A study on 75 patients compared Valerian with a minor prescription tranquilizer, oxazepam (Serax®). Both products were found as effective but, contrary to oxazepam, almost no side effects were reported with Valerian.

Another study conducted on 23 insomniac patients noted that, after a 2 week treatment, 15 patients evaluated the quality of their sleep at 4 or 5 on a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the best score).

Consult a healthcare practitioner if sleeplessness persists continuously for more than 3 weeks (chronic insomnia) or if symptoms persist or worsen. Not recommended to use with alcohol, other drugs or natural health products with sedative properties. Exercise caution if operating heavy machinery or driving a motor vehicle within 2 hours of consumption.

Consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid taking in case of known allergy to any of the ingredients in the product.

Do not use of security cap is broken. Keep out of reach of children.