General information
Valerian tablets are medicines containing dry extracts of valerian root. Besides tablets and capsules, valerian is also available as tea, tincture or juice. They are not subject to prescription in Germany, are not paid for by health insurance companies and can be bought without prescription in pharmacies and drugstores.
Valerian tablets contain various components of the valerian root, which are said to have a medicinal effect. The medically active components of valerian tablets are valerenic acid and valerenol. In placebo studies, a mild medical effect has been proven. These two substances have a calming effect on mental stress and sleep disorders.
Dose and intake
Valerian tablets and valerian dragees are available in many different varieties. The advantage of valerian tablets over classic extracts such as tea or juices is the neutral taste compared to the very strict tasting valerian root. Valerian tablets and dragees are often combined with other plant extracts to increase their effectiveness.
These include hops and balm in particular. As a rule, it is recommended to take 1-2 tablets 1-3 times a day for restlessness. If you have trouble falling asleep, 1-2 tablets should be taken about one hour before falling asleep.
The tablets should be taken unchewed and preferably with a glass of water. Due to the large number of different valerian preparations, it is advisable to read the package leaflet carefully before taking them. As there are insufficient data on the use of valerian preparations in children under 12 years of age, it should not be used in children under 12 years of age.
Effectiveness
Valerian tablets and valerian dragées are used for restlessness and nervousness related problems in falling asleep. Since there are a large number of different valerian tablets in Germany, it is generally recommended to use approved valerian drugs from the pharmacy, as the pharmaceutical quality is not always sufficient for preparations from drugstores.
Side effects and contraindications
Hardly any side effects are known for valerian tablets and valerian dragees. Very seldom, when taking valerian, disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract can occur. The (expectant) mother should avoid valerian during pregnancy and lactation.
There are not yet sufficient studies on possible harmful effects on the child. Valerian tablets should not be taken together with barbiturates (other sleeping pills and seizure medicines) as they can complement each other in their effects and sedation may occur.
