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Herbal Products pp 55–70Cite as

Valerian

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Part of the book series: Forensic Science and Medicine ((FSM))

Abstract

Valerian is a unique herb with a long history of use through western Europe as a sedative and hypnotic. A variety of pharmacologically active components are likely responsible for its clinical effects including volatile oils, monoterpenes, valepotriates, and sesquiterpenes. Valerenic acid, a sesquiterpene component of valerian, is postulated to produce sedation through inhibition of the breakdown of gamma-amino butyric acid. The herb is well tolerated, and side effects have been mild and self-limiting in most cases. Isolated reports of liver damage have occurred with valerian being a concomitantly consumed agent, yet anecdotal cases of attempted intentional self-poisoning with the herb have not resulted in fatality and long-term follow-up for subsequent hepatotoxicity in a number of these patients has not revealed liver abnormalities. The herb’s postitive safety profile and demonstrated effectiveness in treating insomnia contributes to its popularity.

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Authors
  1. Brian J. Isetts
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

    Timothy S. Tracy PhD

  2. SafetyCall International, PLLC, Clinical Services, Bloomington, MN

    Richard L. Kingston PharmD

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© 2007 Humana Press Inc.

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Isetts, B.J. (2007). Valerian. In: Tracy, T.S., Kingston, R.L. (eds) Herbal Products. Forensic Science and Medicine. Humana Press. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59745-383-7_4

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