Commission E Monograph: Valerian Root

Name of Drug: Valerianae radix, valerian root

Composition of Drug: Valerian root, consisting of fresh underground plant parts, or parts carefully dried below 40° C, of the species Valeriana officinalis L. [Fam. Valerianaceae], and its preparations in effective dosage. The roots contain essential oil with monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes (valerenic acids). Preparations of valerian used therapeutically (infusion, extract, fluid extract, tincture) no longer contain the thermolabile and chemically unstable valepotriates.

Uses: Restlessness, sleeping disorders based on nervous conditions.

Contraindications: None known.

Side Effects: None known.

Interactions with Other Drugs: None known.

Dosage: Unless otherwise prescribed:

Infusions: 2-3 g of drug per cup, one to several times per day. Tinctures: 1/2-1 teaspoon (1-3 mL), one to several times per day. Extracts: Amount equivalent to 2-3 g of drug, one to several times per day. External use: 100 g for one full bath; equivalent preparations.

Mode of Administration:
Internal: As expressed juice from fresh plants, tincture, extracts, and other galenical preparations.
External: As a bath additive.

Actions: Sedative, sleep-promoting.

Reprinted with permission from The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines, a 700-page guide featuring 380 monographs. The guide is published by the American Botanical Council, Austin, Texas, 1998.