Valerian drops are a popular sleep aid, but they are not regulated by the FDA and may cause side effects. They are made from Valeriana officinalis and are available in pill, powder, or drop form. Users should dilute 25-30 drops in water before bedtime and be aware of potential side effects and lack of regulation. Consult a doctor before use.
Valerian drops are a type of dietary supplement most commonly used as a sleep aid. While they are generally considered safe, and many people report that they help stave off insomnia, potential users should be aware of a few precautions before taking them. In particular, it should be noted that valerian products are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and may cause side effects in some users.
While there are many species of valerian, the most commonly used in commercial valerian products is Valeriana officinalis. Valerian supplements are generally available in pill, powder, or drop form. In the case of valerian drops, distilled extracts taken from the root of the Valeriana officinalis plant are combined with water or another natural liquid.
If taking valerian as a sleep aid, most users dilute approximately 25 to 30 drops of the product in a small glass of water. When taken shortly before bedtime, this mixture is reported to enhance relaxation and prevent insomnia. Some users also use this treatment throughout the day to reduce anxiety.
In general, valerian drops are considered harmless. However, as with all herbal supplements, they are not subject to the strict regulations imposed on pharmaceutical drugs by the FDA. This lack of regulation has led many medical experts to urge caution when using valerian, for a number of reasons.
Firstly, little regulation means that producers of valerian drops can label their products however they please. A label might simply state that the drops contain valerian, but the plant used may not be Valeriana officinalis. Since many of the other valerian species have not been subjected to extensive medical studies, they can produce unexpected and even harmful side effects.
Although Valeriana officinalis has been thoroughly studied, it can cause side effects in some users. Occasionally, valerian users may experience nausea, rapid heartbeat, and headaches. Additionally, it is not yet entirely clear whether valerian extracts are safe for pregnant or lactating women.
Finally, studies show that valerian drops generally need to be taken every night for at least two weeks before users notice an improvement in their sleep quality. As the effects of long-term use of valerian are not yet fully understood, some health professionals express concern about sustained ingestion of the supplement. Therefore, those who experience sleep difficulties can consult a doctor before using valerian.
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