Side Effects of Valerian Root & Interactions

Valerian root side effects are undesirable feelings, reactions and symptoms that occur after taking valerian root capsules, pills, extract or tea. Here’s a list of all the possible too much valerian root tea side effects on liver, heart and body such as vivid dreams, drowsiness, stomach, diarrhea, headaches and more. Also find out the side effects of valerian root for pets such as dogs

Side Effects of Valerian Root + Interactions

Valerian Root Side Effects, Interactions, Liver, Heart, Dogs, Tea, Capsules, 450mg, Pills, Dreams, Diarrhea, Hallucinations, Headache, Long Terms, Stomach, Tablets

Is valerian root safe? How does it interact with other medications or drugs? Below is a discussion on how this herbal remedy interacts with other drugs and possible side effects and dangers

Valerian root Interactions

Does Valerian root come with adverse effects?

Although it has been used as a medicinal herb, valerian root has its own side effects especially when it is not used well. Taking the wrong dose or too mush of valerian root extract or pills to treat problems such as social anxiety, sleeping disorders and depression can lead to undesirable side effects.

Some of the side effects of valerian root intake may be localized, with the liver being one of the body organs that may be at risk or danger when you take too much valerian root. Below, we will look at all the possible valerian root side effects and why they occur.

There are not many reported severe side effects of using valerian as a muscle tonic, relaxant and herbal medication for insomnia and anxiety. However, the lack of adverse effects when consuming the herb may be associated with its use in the proper way.

The uses of valerian root include temporary treatment of insomnia, depression, social anxiety and anxiety that may result from alcohol withdrawal, depression, muscle aches and joint pains. However, its adverse effects may arise from too much use of the herbal medication. It is highly recommended that you take the right dosage of valerian extract to avoid most of the side effects discussed below.

Valerian Root Tea Side Effects

Are you a fan of drinking valerian root tea? There are drug interactions and adverse effects that you may want to know if you are on a dose of this herbal tea. Side effects can be grouped into four categories: those for occasional drinkers of the tea, chronic drinkers of the herbal root tea, interactions and side effects related to pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. So, what are the side effects of valerian root tea?

• This tea is mostly tolerated by the body just fine. However, with occasional use of the tea, you might start experiencing some side effects such as being unsteady, excitement, low body temperature, headaches and dizziness.
• If you are a chronic drinker of valerian tea, and have been taking it as a medication for a long time, say two months, you might start experiencing adverse effects such as stomach aches or upsets, reduced concentration, depression, insomnia, night terrors etc. Most of these side effect symptoms are related
• Pregnant women are advised not to take this herbal tea as the undesirable effects are likely to be passed on to the unborn baby. Similarly, breastfeeding can pass valerian to the baby and pose a risk of valerian root side effects discussed in this article.

Drug interactions with valerian root tea have not been researched in detail. However, NIH points out that some of the valerian root tea side effects may include increased drowsiness, agitation and bouts of anxiety if mixed with alcohol, or taken in combination with other over-the-counter medications for anxiety, insomnia and depression.

Valerian Root Side Effects Liver Damage

Valerian root extract side effects may be experienced on the liver. Is liver damage a risk factor when taking valerian herbal extracts? Although it is a rare occurrence, liver damage has been associated with the use of valerian root, especially for prolonged periods.

According to research, “Valerian inhibits liver enzymes such as cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 and CYP3A4 and may interfere with medications metabolized by them.” [LiveStrong]. When taking valerian root capsules and other medications, you may experience an increase in the effects of interactions with those other medications that are metabolized by the liver. Liver toxicity is one of the likely dangerous adverse effects when taking the medication for a prolonged period.

Valerian Root Side Effects Heart, Dreams and Night Terrors

Valerian root side effects such as vivid dreams and night terrors are a common occurrence especially when one takes too much of the herb to treat insomnia. Although the herb has been used for centuries to treat sleep disorders or insomnia, possible side effects may include vivid dreams.

Patients may take valerian and experience deep sleep. However, during their bedtime, they may experience animated dreams, sometimes referred to as night terrors which can end up with other symptoms of anxiety and restlessness wen the patient wakes up.

When it comes to your heart, when used as directed, it more beneficial than a source of harm or danger. It is in fact thought to help to slow the heart in tachycardia. It also helps regulate arrhythmias as well as stabilize blood pressure. However, when not used correctly it may cause undesired effects.

Valerian Root for Dogs Side Effect

When giving you dog valerian,  you should monitor the dosage. It may cause some adverse reactions in dogs  because of its soap-like consistency. This does not happen always, but at least you have a  reason to be cautious

Too Much Valerian Root Side Effects

What happens when you take too much valerian? First, if you want to temporarily treat insomnia or sleeplessness using valerian root, it is important that you get the right dosage, which should be recommended by a doctor or as indicated on the label of valerian root capsules. Too much valerian root side effects include the following:

According to Mayoclinic, Valerian may not be safe if you’re pregnant or breast-feeding. And it has not been evaluated to determine if it’s safe for children under 3 years old.

Other side effects include;

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Blurry vision and dilated pupils
• Too much excitement
• Restlessness
• Stomachaches
• Irregular heartbeats
• Headaches

To avoid these valerian root side effects, avoid taking too much of the tea, tinctures or pills (capsules). Only use as indicated by your doctor or on the label.

Side Effects of Valerian Root Capsules

Valerian root capsules are said to be more effective than other supplements such as teas and tinctures. They act fast and help patients relax quickly. But are there side effects of valerian root capsules? Yes, the side effects of these pills, tablets or capsules are not different from those discussed above.

Some people have reported allergic reactions when using valerian root capsules and teas. If such side effects remain persistent, stop the use of valerian and see a doctor as an emergency. Oral capsules may, as a point to note, have quicker side effects on the liver.

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