How to Take Valerian for Anxiety Symptoms

Valerian can be found in capsule form.

Taking a valerian supplement may help to relieve anxiety symptoms because these supplements increase GABA levels. GABA, or gamma aminobutyric acid, is an amino acid found mainly in the human brain and eyes that may encourage relaxation and ease nervous tension by inhibiting the number of neurons firing in the brain. Consult your doctor if you experience panic or anxiety often. Your doctor will let you know if a valerian supplement may be right for your symptoms.

Things You'll Need

• Valerian supplement

Instructions

1. Schedule an appointment with a mental health professional and ask if valerian is recommended for your symptoms. Make sure your provider knows about any medications you are currently taking.

2. Purchase valerian capsules or dried roots to prepare as teas or tinctures. Take valerian at the same time every day so you will be more likely to remember.

3. Take 200 mg of valerian three to four times per day. You may need to take it for a few weeks before you notice a decrease in your anxiety symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Valerian is sold as a dietary supplement, so any health claims have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

• Avoid taking valerian with alcohol or sedative drugs, such as barbiturates and benzodiazepines. Doing so may increase sedative effects.

• Women who are pregnant or nursing and children younger than three should not take valerian.

• Do not use valerian preparations based on Mexican valerian, Valeriana edulis, or Indian valerian, Valeriana wallichii.

• Avoid valerian mixed with kava. Kava has been associated with liver damage.

• Do not use valerian while driving, while operating heavy machinery or during other activities that require you to be alert.

References

• National Institutes of Health: Now Foods GABA 500 mg + B-6, 2 mg
• National Institutes of Health: Valerian
• New York University: GABA