Valerianae radix

Rootstock and root of valerian, see also valerian root.

Quality is defined in the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.):

HMPC - Monograph: well-established use as dry extract (DEV 3-7,4:1, extractant ethanol 40-70 %): mild nervous tension and insomnia. Also well-established use in combinations of valerian root and hop cones: insomnia. Additionally traditional-use: Valerian root cut drug and other dry extracts, liquid extracts, valerian tincture, valerian fresh plant juice and valerian essential oil: mild stress-related symptoms, sleep aid
ESCOP monograph: mild nervous tension and/or sleep disorders
Commission e-monograph: restlessness, nervous sleep disorders

Empirical medicine: nervous stomach cramps, colic and uterine spasms

Sleep-promoting and calming due to its effect on GABA and benzodiazepine receptors. The concentration of GABA in the synaptic cleft is increased and the release of activating neurotransmitters is reduced. Spasmolytic, muscle relaxant.

Daily dose: 400-600 mg; the effect of valerian only sets in after 14 days due to its special pharmacokinetics: the concentration of GABA, the most important inhibitory neurotransmitter, is increased in the synaptic cleft, which reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters.

Pregnancy and lactation due to lack of data. Children under 12 years of age due to lack of data. Simultaneous administration of barbiturates and benzodiazepines - excessive sedation!

Due to the possible impairment of the ability to react, it is advisable to refrain from driving or operating machinery for several hours.

The combination with hops shows a faster onset of action - the combination is also listed in the HMPC monograph: "well-established use" for the indication of sleep disorders.

1. https://arzneipflanzenlexikon.info/baldrian.php
2. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-monograph/final-european-union-herbal-monograph-valeriana-officinalis-l-radix_en.pdf
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6. https://www.pharmazeutische-zeitung.de/baldrianwurzel-und-hopfenzapfen/