Valerian for Herpes

Used medicinally throughout most of recorded history, Hippocrates documented the reported therapeutic value of the herb valerian. Today, medical authorities point to calming effects of the substance as a benefit in minimizing irritation from the herpes simplex virus.

Function

Insomnia and anxiety are the disorders typically treated with valerian supplementation, but the herb also displays the ability to calm the frayed nerve endings affected by an outbreak of herpes.

History

Valerian usage dates back thousands of years with a traditional belief in the herbs' ability to heal skin disorders like those displayed during an attack of the herpes simplex virus. "Preparations for use on the skin have been used to treat sores and acne," reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Features

As the herpes simplex virus affects the nervous system of the body, the ability of valerian to calm irritated nerve endings springs into action. "It increases the amount of a chemical called gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain," reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. "GABA helps regulate nerve cells."

Effects

Valerian side effects normally are minimal but may include fatigue, headaches, dizziness and an upset stomach. According to the Tang Center for Herbal Medicine Research at the University of Chicago, daily dosage of valerian should not exceed 1,800 mg.

Considerations

Consumption of valerian is believed to be safe for short periods, typically 4 to 6 weeks. "No information is available about the long-term safety of valerian," reports the U.S. Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

References

• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Valerian
• Medline Plus/U.S. National Library of Medicine; Valerian
• University of Maryland Medical Center; Valerian
• National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements: Valerian
• Tang Center for Herbal Medicine Research, The University of Chicago: Valerian