Moderate evidenceeffect size d = 0.50
Mild reduction in tension
Sources
- Effect of valerian on sleep quality in post-menopausal women (2010)
Valerian for Stress & anxiety
Valeriana officinalis · Valerianaceae
Mild reduction in tension Evidence rated moderate (d = 0.50).
Want the full plant profile? See Valerian botanical profile →
I
How it works mechanism
Same GABAergic mechanism. Smaller effect than for sleep.
II
Evidence cited sources
1 sourceIII
Dosage & preparation
IV
Safety & cautions
warning · CNS depressants
Strong additive sedation with alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids.
warning · pregnancy
Pregnancy / lactation: insufficient safety data. Avoid.
warning · driving
May impair next-morning alertness; avoid before driving.
V
Other plants for Stress & anxiety
8 alternatives
VI
Frequently asked
Is Valerian effective for Stress & anxiety?
Mild reduction in tension Evidence is rated moderate with an effect size of d=0.50. See the Evidence section above for cited sources.
What is the recommended dose of Valerian for Stress & anxiety?
Typical adult dose: 2.000–3.000 g as Infusion / tea, 1–3 times daily. See the Dosage table for all forms. Always start at the lower end.
What are the safety risks of Valerian for Stress & anxiety?
Strong additive sedation with alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids. See the Safety section for the full list of contraindications and drug interactions.
How does Valerian compare to other plants for Stress & anxiety?
See the alternatives section above — we list other species with documented effects on Stress & anxiety, ranked by evidence quality.
Is this medical advice?
No. This is educational reference. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal preparation, especially alongside prescription medication.
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