🌿Western Herbalism

Valerian Root Extract

capsule

Conditions addressed

InsomniaAnxietyStressDepression

Suggested dosage

1–2 capsules daily with food, unless otherwise directed

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children

Pregnancy

Use Caution

Some midwives use valerian short-term for pregnancy-related anxiety/sleep, but formal safety studies are limited — generally used cautiously and not as a long-term or high-dose remedy.

Breastfeeding

Use Caution

Limited formal safety data; sedative herbs can cause infant drowsiness via milk, so cautious, short-term use is typical.

Children

Use Caution

Sometimes used short-term for children's sleep under guidance, but dosing for children isn't well established — start low and use short-term only.

Interactions & contraindications

Sedatives, benzodiazepines, alcohol

Additive drowsiness and CNS depression.

Anesthesia (pre-surgery)

May prolong sedation — inform your surgical team and typically discontinue 1–2 weeks prior.