All the subtleties and nuances of the instructions for using valerian tablets

Many people don’t even think about the purpose, benefits and harms of valerian tablets. They simply drink them when they need to quickly calm down or relieve nervous tension. Sometimes the medication is taken in courses to get rid of insomnia. Meanwhile, valerian tablets have many more indications due to its unique properties. We must not forget about the potential risks of the drug, its possible side effects and signs of overdose.

Description and composition

Depending on the manufacturer, Valerian tablets can contain from 10 to 500 mg of active ingredient.
This is reflected in the strength of the effect obtained and the treatment regimen. The higher the concentration of valerian, the fewer tablets a single dose makes. The value of valerian lies in the essential oils it contains. In addition, alkaloids and valepotriates exhibit sedative properties. After oral administration, a decrease in the excitability of the nervous system is observed, as well as a slight antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles of the digestive tract and urinary system.

The sedative effect develops slowly and gradually, so Valerian is not an emergency measure. A stable sedative effect can be achieved with regular use of the drug.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics

The sedative effectiveness of the drug develops slowly, depends on the dose and is stable. Valerian drops facilitate the process of entering natural sleep, stabilize its course and have virtually no effect on awakening.

In addition to the sedative effects, the drug exhibits a mild antispasmodic effect and a mild choleretic effect. Taking this drug has a beneficial effect on the secretory functionality of the gastrointestinal tract, dilates the vessels of the coronary system and reduces pathologically rapid heart rate.

Stabilization of the activity of the heart muscle is determined by the influence of the active ingredient of the drug on the mechanisms of neuroregulation and its direct effect on the cardiac conduction system and heart automatism. Therapeutic effectiveness is formed with prolonged and systematic use.

After oral administration of 600 mg of dry valerian extract, the highest concentration of valerenic acid is observed after 1-2 hours. Pharmacokinetics does not change if the drug is taken repeatedly.

Side effects

Main side effects:

• nausea, heartburn;
• heart rhythm disturbance;
• lethargy, drowsiness;
• muscle weakness.

Valerian causes a feeling of drowsiness

The consequences for the body of an overdose of Valerian can be unpredictable. If the dose indicated in the annotation is exceeded by 20 times, arrhythmia, bradycardia, severe vomiting develops, and the person may become overly aggressive or fall into a stupor.

With prolonged use of the medicine, hypotension, heartburn, increased drowsiness, and decreased performance may develop. If after a week of therapy your health does not improve, it is necessary to replace the drug with a stronger drug.

Sometimes side effects may develop in the form of allergic reactions.

Very rarely, when taking the drug, negative phenomena associated with high personal sensitivity were observed.

Dosage of valerian drops and valerian tablets for children

The herbal sedative is used in the form of tincture, tablets, and herbal packets. It is forbidden to give the drug in drops to children from birth to 1 year, because The medication contains ethyl alcohol.

preparations with valerian are indicated for use in children of all ages

The instructions for use of valerian contain recommendations on the use of the medicine for children of different ages. It indicates indications and contraindications for taking the medication, the dose of the drug depending on the age of the child and the nature of the disease. Parents are required to familiarize themselves with its contents before starting treatment for their child.

Children under 1 year

Valerian drops are prescribed to a child up to 12 months old in the following dose: 1 drop per 1 year of life. The medicine must be dissolved in 20 g of water, because The tincture has a rare odor and can cause nausea.

A child should be given a herbal sedative after examination by a doctor; special care must be taken when treating newborns. The doctor will tell the parents how many drops the child needs to drink.

Self-medication is unacceptable.

Children from 1 to 3 years old

The dose of the drug is determined depending on the age of the small patient. If the child is over 2 years old, he is prescribed 2 drops of the drug dissolved in a spoonful of water. The doctor decides how many times a day to take the medicine after examining the patient.

You should not increase the amount of medication, because its overdose causes disturbances in the functioning of internal organs.

preparations with valerian will help relieve nervous overexcitation, insomnia, tearfulness and fears

Children 4-7 years old

If the patient does not want to drink the drug in liquid form, it is necessary to inform the doctor about the problem. The pediatrician will prescribe the medication in a different dosage form. Valerian tablets are recommended to the patient if there is difficulty falling asleep or the teenager often wakes up at night.

The dosage of the herbal remedy in tablets depends on the diagnosis and the age of the patient. If a 5-year-old child develops overexcitement, anxiety or fear, he is given 5 drops of the drug dissolved in a small amount of water.

With increased irritability, lack of restraint, and impatience, the doctor prescribes a 6-year-old patient to take the drug in an age-appropriate dose. If a patient develops fear, tension, or anxious suspiciousness, a 7-year-old patient is prescribed 7 drops of tincture dissolved in 20 ml of water.

Overdose symptoms and possible side effects

During course therapy, side effects are observed in the form of lethargy, sudden weakness, and drowsiness.

Valerian tincture can cause a depressed state in the patient, and constipation often occurs, which is a side effect of the medicine. When using the medication, you may encounter such a negative manifestation as an allergic reaction.

To obtain a therapeutic effect, you must follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

After taking the medication for a long time at night in a large dose, side effects occur. Medicine in tablets, even after a single dose, can cause lethargy, muscle weakness, depressed mood, and spasm of the cardiac esophagus. During treatment, gastrointestinal disorders often appear.

Poisoning with a herbal remedy can lead to serious consequences and be fatal if a child drinks a bottle of the setting.

Symptoms of intoxication occur an hour after taking the medicine. The patient complains of weakness, dizziness, lethargy. Vomiting, nausea, diarrhea often appear, and the headache becomes unbearable.

Breathing is intermittent, heartbeat is weak, blood pressure drops. The patient loses consciousness and coma may occur. In case of poisoning, you must call an ambulance.

Valerian extract

The active ingredient of valerian tablets is thick valerian extract. The extract is made by pressing powder from the crushed dried roots and rhizomes of the plant. Dry tablets emit a characteristic smell of plant roots, characterized by the presence of isovaleric ester borneol.

Unlike liquid valerian extract, dry extract takes longer to absorb and produces an effect as the substance accumulates in the body, so valerian tablets are more suitable for the treatment of chronic disorders than for relieving symptoms and preventing stressful conditions.

However, due to the fact that a single dose does not cause a strong decrease in concentration, the drug is often used to relieve anxiety and prevent possible stressful conditions (before serious transactions, during exams, before moving, etc.).

Treatment with the drug is carried out in mandatory courses of 14 to 30 days and can be repeated after a break of at least 10 days. The doctor will tell you how to take the drug correctly, depending on your individual indications.

Raw materials are harvested in autumn or early spring.

Valerian is available in several dosage forms:

• Briquettes or filter bags containing small pieces of rhizomes, roots or powder from them. They are used for self-preparation of medicinal tincture;
• An alcohol tincture containing at least 65% ethyl alcohol, a dark reddish liquid with a characteristic taste and smell;
• Tablets – valerian extract.

In addition, dosage forms with valerian have:

• mild hypotensive effect - reduces blood pressure. In this capacity they are used in combination with antihypertensive drugs;
• choleretic effect, improving the functioning of the liver and gall bladder;
• antispasmodic effect, relaxing smooth muscles,

and also enhance the effect of sedatives and sleeping pills.

Indications for the use of valerian are:

• stress, mental stress, neurasthenia, nervous disorders;
• depression, anxiety, depression, panic attacks;
• hysteria, overexcitement;
• sleep disturbances, insomnia, nightmares;
• a slight increase in blood pressure against the background of nervous overexcitation (as part of complex therapy);
• stomach and intestinal cramps;
• headache, migraine, vegetative-vascular dystonia;
• arrhythmia, tachycardia, pain in the heart area;
• biliary dyskinesia

The tablets contain the main medicinal ingredient - concentrated valerian extract.

In addition to this, the drug contains excipients:

• magnesium carbonate
• starch;
• croscarmellose sodium;
• gelatin;
• calcium stearate.

The tincture contains 70% ethyl alcohol as an excipient.

The benefits of valerian in tablet form

Valerian tablets are famous for their sedative effect. In addition to it, the medication can have other effects:

• Prevents epileptic seizures and reduces their frequency.
• Normalizes intestinal motility and improves its functioning.
• Has choleretic properties.
• Prevents spasms of the esophagus, is used to prevent constipation and increased gas formation.
• Strengthens the walls of blood vessels, improves heart function.
• Normalizes the blood circulation process.
• Prevents migraines, relieves intense pain.
• Increases performance, stimulates a surge of strength.
• It is often used in the initial stages of hypertension as a mild antihypertensive agent.

Traditionally, one tablet of valerian, in addition to the plant extract, contains starch, gelatin, magnesium carbonate and talc. Sometimes minor deviations from this composition occur. In this case, you should agree on the drug with your doctor, otherwise unexpected consequences may occur.

Correct preparation

Valerian roots have medicinal properties, so they are the ones to be harvested. They are dug up in the fall, before the stems are shed, washed well in cold water, subjected to a light antiseptic treatment, dried in the fresh air and placed in a dry, well-ventilated room, for example, an attic.

After going through all the stages of harvesting, the plant acquires a characteristic fragrant odor due to the release of bornyl isovaleric acid.

Currently, a common and popular drug is valerian tincture, the benefits of which are familiar to almost everyone. Valerian, in lat. Valeriana, is a perennial plant, has more than 200...

Valerian tablets and drops are a remedy that, having a pronounced sedative effect, suppresses anxiety, helps to cope with and restore sound and restful sleep. The medicine contains only natural ingredients, but valerian must be used strictly according to the instructions in order to avoid overdose and the occurrence of unwanted reactions.

Compatibility with other drugs

Valerian enhances the effect of sedatives, hypnotics, antispasmodics and choleretic drugs. It is well compatible with most of them, but when calculating the dosage, the total effect of the drugs should be taken into account.

Valerian and alcoholic drinks

When taking valerian simultaneously with alcoholic drinks or after alcohol, you should consider the possibility of developing negative side effects:

• increased depression of the central nervous system, increasing the likelihood of depression;
• a sharp decrease in blood pressure, its changes;
• increased toxic effects of ethanol;
• gastrointestinal disorder;
• sleep disturbance, respiratory disorder, apnea. The risk of such disorders is especially high in men with increased body weight.

How to dose and take the drug

The use of different forms of medicine has its own characteristics.

Rhizomes with valerian roots.

To prepare a medicinal infusion, 2-3 tbsp. l. Place the dried raw materials in an enamel container and pour 1 tbsp. boiled hot water and cover with a lid. Place the product in a boiling water bath for a quarter of an hour, then for 45 minutes. cool it at room temperature. Strain the solution and squeeze out the raw materials. Bring the resulting infusion to a volume of 200 ml by adding the required amount of boiled water.

Take the product half an hour before meals, shaking it immediately before use. The dosage is as follows:

• adults and teenagers – 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day;
• children from 10 to 14 years old – 1 dec. l. 3 times a day;
• children from 1 to 10 years old – 1 tsp. 2–3 times a day.

The nature and severity of the pathological condition, the specifics of its course, the achieved therapeutic effect and tolerability of the drug influence the duration of the course of treatment.

Valerian tincture for oral administration.

The drug is taken after meals 3-4 times a day. 20–30 drops is the optimal single dose for an adult patient. The course of treatment varies from 25 to 30 days. For children under 12 years of age, the dose of the drug is prescribed at the rate of 1 drop of tincture for each year of the child’s life.

Valerian extract in tablets.

The drug is taken 1-2 tablets 4 times a day. After eating, the tablet should be swallowed with a small amount of water. Children under 16 years of age are advised not to take valerian tablets.

Concentrated solution for preparing healing baths.

Dilute 10 ml of concentrated liquid in a large volume of water, in other words, in a common bath

Please note that the water temperature should not exceed 34–37°C, and you can soak in such a bath for no more than 15–20 minutes. The procedure is repeated up to 3–4 times a week

Valerian preparations can be taken for a very long time. But if the desired therapeutic effect does not occur, then you need to seek help from a doctor: a specialist may change the dosage or prescribe another sedative.

Valerian - instructions for use

The pharmacological industry offers consumers valerian in tablets and tincture - both the indications and contraindications will be identical, the differences are only in the pattern of drug use and daily dosage. The main component in the products under consideration is a thick extract of valerian; there are also auxiliary substances - they do not affect the clinical picture, so they should not be taken into account.

How does valerian work?

What is known about the drug in question? It calms, helps fight unexplained anxiety and cope with severe anxiety, improves the process of falling asleep and guarantees deep sleep. Here's what the instructions say:

1. Valerian acts directly on the nervous system - the drug simply depresses it.
2. When taking valerian tablets or tincture, the heart rate slows down and blood vessels dilate.
3. The muscle tissue of the urinary and digestive systems relaxes.

And if valerian is taken by a person for a long time, then in addition to the above actions, there will be an increase in the production of bile (choleretic effect) and a decrease in blood pressure.

Indications for taking valerian

“Take a pill and calm down” - this is exactly how many people perceive valerian. But there are certain indications for the use of this drug - this is indicated in the official instructions for the drug, but who reads it? Remember in what cases it is advisable to start taking the drug in question:

1. Nervous excitement. This does not mean that you need to use valerian for any worries or experiences - if they occur within normal limits, then the body is able to independently cope with this condition and stabilize the functioning of the nervous system. Only really strong excitement, when neither a series of deep inhalations/exhalations, nor short-term sleep, nor meditation helps, can become a reason to use pills or valerian tincture.

2. Insomnia. It is worth clarifying here that problems falling asleep and restless night sleep can be signs of a rather serious condition - we are talking about chronic fatigue syndrome. Therefore, if the lack of normal night sleep has become habitual, then you should not take valerian, but seek help from specialists. Some scientists generally reject the theory that the drug in question has a positive effect on sleep (this will be discussed a little later).
3. Migraine. Many perceive this pathology as a “disease of the nerves” and try to restore their well-being with sedatives, including valerian. But migraine is a complex process in the body, which often does not proceed according to the classical version. Therefore, only the attending physician can prescribe valerian for migraine - it, as a rule, is simply one of the components of complex treatment.
4. Vegetative-vascular dystonia. Yes, valerian will help cope with attacks/syndromes that are unique to VSD, but again, first, visit a doctor, get examined, and only then can you safely include the medicinal substance in question in your “diet.”

Please note: valerian tablets/tincture are often prescribed by specialists for the treatment of certain diseases of the cardiovascular system and pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (in particular, to relieve spasms). But valerian is not a panacea in such cases - it is only one of the drugs that make up a complex of therapy.

Contraindications to taking valerian

Do not underestimate the effect of valerian on the body - you need to exclude all possible contraindications and only then stabilize your nervous system with valerian tablets/tincture. The official instructions indicate the following contraindications:

• fructose intolerance;
• existing deficiency of lactase and sucrase;
• malabsorption of glucose-galactose nature;
• pregnancy - applies only to the first three months (first trimester) of this condition;
• children under 3 years of age.

We must not forget the possibility of individual intolerance or hypersensitivity specifically to valerian - some people can even react to the specific smell of the product with classic manifestations of an allergic reaction (skin rash, itching, lacrimation, coughing and sneezing attacks).

Please note: children, even from 4 years of age, are strictly prohibited from independently prescribing and giving the drug in question! Valerian is used in the complex treatment of certain nervous/mental disorders and other pathologies, but only as prescribed by a doctor.

Recommended Dosages

How are people used to using valerian? Three or four tablets, 30-40 drops of tincture and all this 3-4 times a day - you must agree, everyone knows this dosage. But experts say that treating such a variable amount of the drug in question is fraught with an overdose.

Please note: it has been officially established that the daily dose of valerian should not exceed 200 mg! Some manufacturers offer consumers to take valerian in capsules, one of which contains 200-350 mg of valerian - this is an outrageous amount! To get a good therapeutic effect, you do not need to increase the daily dosage, but take the medicine correctly - according to the regimen developed by the doctor.

Considering that one tablet of valerian extract usually contains 20 mg of the main active ingredient, we can say with confidence that the critical number of tablets per day is 10. In general, the dosage per dose, the number of doses per day are set individually - do not experiment on your own costs.

General recommendations are as follows:

• if valerian is used to stabilize the condition and is taken in a course, then it is enough to take 2 tablets of 20 mg three times a day or 35 drops of tincture 3 times a day;
• in the case of using valerian for emergency sedation (for example, before an exam or interview), it will be enough to take 5 tablets of 20 mg of valerian or 40 drops of tincture;
• if valerian is given to children aged 7 years and older, then ½ tablet of 20 mg will be enough, and the tincture is completely prohibited;
• if you are going to give the drug in question to a child aged 4 to 7 years, then you will need ¼ of a 20 mg tablet.

The duration of use of valerian is also determined individually. Experts say that the optimal period for taking valerian tablets or tincture is 10 days, and the maximum is 30 days. It may be necessary to extend the course of taking the drug in question, but in this case you cannot do without the help of a specialist - only a doctor can determine the advisability of further taking valerian.

Possible side effects

Even if valerian is used as prescribed by a doctor and strictly according to the recommended regimen, the possibility of side effects is very high. Please note the following conditions:

• decreased performance;
• constant desire to sleep;
• weakening of muscle tissue (“you can’t hold a spoon in your hand”);
• lethargy (the reaction weakens, the person begins to think about decisions more slowly, speech becomes somewhat drawn out);
• bowel dysfunction – with prolonged use of valerian, constipation is possible.

If at least one of the listed syndromes occurs, then you must immediately stop taking valerian tablets/tincture and consult a doctor. Do not forget that anyone can develop an allergy when taking valerian, even if this phenomenon has not previously been noted.

Valerian overdose

It turns out that an overdose of valerian is quite real! And even the symptoms of this condition are clearly expressed - it is simply impossible to make a mistake. Signs of an overdose of the drug in question include:

1. Problems in the functioning of the digestive system - constipation or, conversely, unmotivated diarrhea may appear; patients often complain of mild nausea.
2. The nervous system suffers - this can happen in two directions:
   the person becomes lethargic, apathetic, he constantly wants to sleep, there are complaints of dizziness, and possibly depression of consciousness;
3. excessive excitement appears, the person’s pupils are dilated, the face becomes covered with red spots.
4. Blood pressure becomes unstable - please note that if valerian is taken according to a strict medical regimen, then you can achieve a decrease in blood pressure, but an overdose leads to a significant increase in it.

Separately, it is worth considering cases of overdose of valerian in tincture - the signs will be slightly different. For example:

• a slow heartbeat (bradycardia) appears;

• the patient will suffer from constant headaches that mimic a migraine attack;
• Heartburn will appear periodically, and the feeling of nausea will become constant;
• if there is a history of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, then their exacerbation may occur.

Please note: when using valerian tincture, an overdose can occur from the first dose. Therefore, before you start using the drug in question, you should definitely consult a doctor. What to do if signs of overdose appear:

1. Stop taking valerian in any pharmacological form.
2. Induce vomiting - this can be done by drinking a large amount of water or mechanically acting on the small tongue in the throat.
3. Call an ambulance - they will professionally rinse the stomach and administer specific medications to reduce the symptoms of poisoning. But pay attention - this help will be appropriate if no more than 2 hours have passed since the last dose of the medicine.
4. If the condition does not improve, then you should definitely seek help from a doctor - in some particularly severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

pharmachologic effect

Herbal product. Causes a moderate sedative effect. The action is due to the content of essential oil, most of which is an ester of borneol and isovaleric acid. Valepotriates and alkaloids – valerine and hotenine – also have sedative properties. Valerian facilitates the onset of natural sleep.

Regulation of cardiac activity is mediated through neuroregulatory mechanisms and a direct effect on the automatism and conduction system of the heart. The therapeutic effect is manifested with systematic and long-term course treatment.

Is it possible to give valerian to children and, if so, at what age?

Many parents are afraid to give their child chemicals and prefer medications that contain plant extract. The doctor prescribes valerian for children if the child is excitable and irritable or suffers from insomnia. In this case, parents give the drug, because it is safe and beneficial.

The doctor prescribes a soothing tincture after examining the patient and establishing a diagnosis. Young children do not often need sedatives because... Negative emotions and anxiety do not require drug treatment, but behavior correction with the participation of a teacher.

If a neurotic syndrome develops or tics appear, the child can be given valerian, but only after consultation with a neurologist. An infusion of the root of a medicinal plant is used to treat infants, preschool, and school children.

alcoholic extract of valerian is given to a child from 12 years of age and with a mandatory strict dosage

An alcohol solution is given to children after 12 years of age. Frequent and uncontrolled use of the drug leads to undesirable consequences: the child becomes inhibited, side effects of the drug occur. The doctor does not recommend frequently giving drops to young children, but sometimes using the medicine is possible in a dosage appropriate for their age.

Release forms, composition and effect of the drug

The drug is produced in the following dosage forms:

• alcohol tincture;
• extract (tablets);
• homeopathic drops;
• valerian + vitamin B6 tablets.

Tincture from the root of a medicinal plant has a calming effect on the body due to the influence of the ester of borneol and isovaleric acid. The sedative effect does not occur immediately; insomnia disappears after regular use of the medication. The drug is an antispasmodic, improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, and regulates the secretion of bile.

Valerian (drops) is a transparent brown liquid that contains the following ingredients:

• rhizome of a medicinal plant as an active substance - 200 g,
• 70% ethyl alcohol.

Yellow tablets contain 20 g of active ingredient. They are prescribed to calm the nervous system.

Valerian extract contains auxiliary ingredients:

• magnesium hydroxycarbonate;
• starch;
• calcium stearate;
• gelatin;
• titanium dioxide.

The medicine acts on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.

the pharmaceutical industry produces various dosage forms containing valerian root

How to take medicine in tablets. Instructions

What does the drug help with? For a long time, valerian has been known to mankind as a good sedative that effectively combats problems such as nervousness, groundless fear, irritability, insomnia and other neurological problems.

Valerian in tablets helps well with problems with the nervous system, irritability, depression, and it is possible to combine valerian with other drugs or use it independently in the amount of 1-2 pieces 3-4 times a day immediately after meals.

The treatment is long-term, at least 2-4 weeks, since the drug has a cumulative effect. The instructions also provide for repeated courses of therapy. Depending on the problem for which the drug is prescribed and the individual characteristics of the body, the dosage may be increased.

The tincture is taken, like the tablet form of the medicine, immediately after meals, usually 3-4 times a day. Dosage: no more than 20–30 drops at a time. To achieve a noticeable effect, a course of treatment of at least one month is required, which must be systematically repeated.

special instructions

If the tablets are used over a long period of time, the effect on a person may lead to a decrease in psychomotor reactions. How long it takes for the drug to act in this way depends on the individual characteristics of the body.

When taking the medicine, you should take into account how valerian acts on a person, so you need to carefully drive vehicles, as well as perform other actions that require accurate reactions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6TBEZZ-SuE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6TBEZZ-SuE

Another name for the plant is cat grass, as it is called because valerian causes a specific effect on animals. Many people are interested in whether valerian is harmful for cats.

You can find out why cats like this medicine by studying its composition. Why the medicine acts this way is explained by the presence of the substance actinidin in its composition.

Unlike people, cats are not sedated by this remedy. There have been cases where an overdose led to the death of an animal. Sometimes the lethal dose for a cat is a relatively small amount of the drug, so it is advisable not to keep the tablets in places where animals have access.

If valerian is given in tablets to dogs, the product can provoke allergic reactions in the animal.

If taken systematically, caution is required when performing hazardous work and driving.

Possible side effects and overdose

Side effects of valerian preparations are directly related to their medicinal properties and most often occur as a result of a drug overdose:

• inhibition of reactions;
• lethargy, muscle weakness;
• manifestation of drowsiness;
• with long-term use constipation;
• decreased performance;
• allergic reactions, if you are predisposed to them.

More serious side effects occur as a result of a large overdose - usually this is more than 20 times the dosage limit. In this case, heart rhythm disturbances may occur - arrhythmia, bradycardia.

Despite the fact that valerian preparations are one of the most harmless natural medicines and fatal poisoning with them, even with a large overdose, is unlikely, individual reactions and the state of human health cannot be ignored.

There is no specific antidote to valerian. In any case, before you start taking it, you must carefully read the instructions for use and compare the benefits and harms of the medicine.

Indications

In this section we will note the indications for the use of valerian. These include:

• strong nervous excitement;
• insomnia;
• problems falling asleep;
• migraine;
• disorders of the cardiovascular system;
• gastrointestinal spasms.

Please note that in the last two cases, taking valerian alone will not help. This drug is used in complex treatment

How many valerian tablets can you take at a time? It is recommended to take one or two tablets. The number of doses per day should not exceed three. Before using the drug, you should consult with your doctor, who will inform you about all the features of administration and dosage.

What else is worth paying attention to? “Valerian” is a fairly common sedative; people with normal blood pressure just need to take a couple of tablets before bed (to fall asleep quickly) and a couple of tablets in the morning for good health

People suffering from low blood pressure should take the pills with special caution.

With alcohol

When discussing the compatibility of this drug with alcohol, it should be taken into account that when taking alcohol and tablets simultaneously, mutual potentiation of the effects is observed.

As a result, there is pronounced inhibition of the central nervous system. Therefore, it is not recommended to practice this combination.

Combining the use of a natural sedative with the consumption of alcoholic beverages is dangerous - irreversible processes may occur in the central nervous system and cardiac activity. During treatment you should refrain from coffee and tea.

Valerian and alcohol are incompatible

It is very dangerous to consume alcohol and valerian, since mutual potentiation of effects begins to take effect and the central nervous system is maximally inhibited. When consuming valerian tincture, alcohol may be detected in the blood.

Side effects

With long-term use and overdose, a reaction from the central nervous system is observed: lethargy, apathy, lethargy, drowsiness, absent-mindedness, decreased performance.

We are talking about pill poisoning if the patient has:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and other gastrointestinal disorders;
• depression of the functions of the central nervous system, weakness, fainting, overexcitation, tremors of the limbs, dilated pupils;
• A normal dose of medication lowers blood pressure, and an excess of it causes it to rise.

The answer to the question of how much valerian you can drink at a time is not relevant, since the drug has a cumulative effect and in order to get a stable effect, it must be taken in courses.

The standard dose, 2-3 tablets, can be increased to 4-5, but if you want to achieve a quick effect, you should pay attention to other sedatives. The effect provided is individual and depends on the susceptibility of the nervous system.

In case of an overdose of alcohol tincture, severe headaches, migraines, bradycardia, and sleep disturbances are added to the listed symptoms.

The consequences of increasing the recommended dosage appear after 1-2 hours. The main danger is ethyl alcohol, but the lethal dose is quite large - about 2 liters of the finished tincture.

In case of poisoning with valerian, induce vomiting and rinse the stomach. If this does not help, then you need to call a medical team.

How to use valerian in children

A doctor should prescribe valerian to a child and determine the dosage and duration of treatment. It should be borne in mind that the drug is contraindicated in any form for children under 3 years of age. From 3 to 6 years of age, the medication can be used in extremely small doses, and from 6 to 12 years of age - in a dosage equal to 2/3 of the adult dose. In children aged 13-15 years and older, valerian is used in adult dosages.

There are no special valerian preparations in small dosages that would be suitable for children. This is due to little knowledge of the safety of using valerian in childhood.

Valerian tablets are prescribed to children only when a single dose for a child corresponds to the dosage of one whole tablet. It is no longer possible to divide them in half, since there is a possibility that one part of the active substance will contain more than the other.

Valerian tincture is officially contraindicated for children under 12 years of age, as it contains 70% ethyl alcohol. However, in some cases, drops are prescribed earlier, because choosing their dose for children is a little easier than when using the tablet form of the drug. The tincture is prescribed 1 drop per year of life, thus a 4-year-old child is given 4 drops of tincture at a time.

Alcohol tincture of valerian is given to children only as prescribed by a doctor.

The tincture should not be given to a 6-month-old or one-year-old baby. When teething, even if the baby is capricious and does not sleep, this remedy is also not used. You can give valerian to children no earlier than they are 3 years old.

To improve sleep in children, valerian can be used externally. Sometimes experts advise bathing babies in water with the addition of the drug. To prepare the solution, usually add 2-3 drops of tincture per 4 liters of water. You can also brew a homemade decoction or infusion of valerian rhizomes and roots for this. They are sold in pharmacies in loose form or in filter bags, which must be brewed according to the instructions. Add half a glass of the prepared product to the volume of the baby bath. Children are bathed in such baths in the evenings before bed.

External use of valerian, provided there is no allergy, is allowed for children of any age.

In folk medicine, aromatic sachets are also made from the roots and herbs of valerian. It is believed that they can be snorted to obtain a sedative effect. Adults sometimes put these bags under their pillows. However, children should not do this. The aroma product can be left in the room, but not closer than a few meters from the crib. In this case, you must make sure that the baby is not allergic to valerian. From a scientific point of view, the effectiveness of this method is not justified.

Compound

Valerian is a medicinal product based on an extract of the rhizomes of the valerian plant; it is used as an analgesic and a mild antispasmodic.
They are produced in tablets, drops, and in the form of dry herbs for brewing. You can see what the medicine looks like in the photo. Composition and release form:

1. The tablets are round, small in size, yellow in color, containing 20 mg of the active ingredient. They are packaged in blisters of 10 pieces, or in dark glass containers of 25, 50 pills each.

   Valerian tablets, coated

2. Valerian tablets 200 mg, black or brown, uncoated, in blisters of 10 pieces.

   Packaging of Valerian tablets

3. Green Valerian P tablets - in the production of the drug, cryoprocessing technology of valerian rhizome powder is used, which allows preserving more of the medicinal properties of the plant. Contains 33.6 mg of valerian root powder, additionally containing 6 mg of ascorbic acid.

   Valerian in pill form

4. Alcohol tincture - 1 liter of medicine contains 200 g of crushed roots and rhizomes of valerian in 70% medical alcohol. Drops for oral use are supplied to pharmacies in darkened glass bottles of 15.25, 50 or 100 ml.

   Valerian tincture for internal use

5. Valerian - crushed rhizomes and roots for brewing in filter bags of 1.5 g or 50 g in cardboard packages.

   Packaging of dry rhizomes and roots of Valerian

6. Liquid concentrate for taking therapeutic baths, 190 ml in dark bottles.

   Valerian concentrate for medicinal baths

The composition contains 0.3 g of valeric acid, 1 mg of flavonoids, citric and glutamic acid, sorbitol, calcium stearate, the package contains 60 lollipops. The absence of sugar in the pills allows them to be used for diabetes.

The drug contains the active ingredient – ​​thick valerian extract.

In addition, valerian tablets contain some additional substances: basic magnesium carbonate, sodium croscarmellose (primelose); potato starch, calcium stearate, gelatin.

According to the pharmacopoeia, 1 liter of tincture includes 200 grams of crushed rhizomes with valerian roots in 70% ethyl alcohol.

During pregnancy and lactation

Many women during the period of bearing a child experience significant stress on the nervous system, suffer from sleep disturbances and increased excitability. Therefore, valerian preparations are prescribed during pregnancy as a mild and safe sedative that helps relieve the emotional instability of the expectant mother.

But in general, it is a fairly mild and relatively harmless drug for pregnant women. Taking a sedative is allowed according to a doctor’s indication no earlier than the second trimester of pregnancy, adhering to the dosage, since exceeding it may affect the development of the unborn child.

After the birth of a child during breastfeeding, taking valerian preparations is also indicated strictly according to the doctor’s indications and without exceeding the prescribed dosage, since the substance passes through breast milk to the baby.

Side effects after taking valerian preparations

If you decide to achieve peace of mind with the help of this natural remedy, keep in mind that the drug has a number of unwanted effects. Among them:

• allergic rash on the body;
• drowsiness;
• decreased muscle tone;
• fatigue;
• lack of energy;
• difficulty concentrating;
• constipation (if you take valerian extract for a very long time).

MirSovetov warns its readers that valerian preparations must be taken strictly according to the instructions, otherwise an overdose of such a seemingly harmless medicine will not bring anything good. You will get the exact opposite effect stated in the instructions: excessive excitability, anxiety and sleep disturbance.

After 1–2 months of taking medications based on valerian rhizomes and roots, you need to take a break to rest the body. It is best to consult your doctor about the duration of the course of taking valerian.

Indications and advisability of using valerian for children

A tincture of a herbal remedy is taken for such pathological conditions as:

• neurosis;
• insomnia;
• spasms of the stomach and intestines;
• vegetative-vascular dystonia.

Valerian for children is recommended as a sedative to relax the nervous system. Drug tablets are used in adolescents over 14 years of age to treat anxiety disorders associated with heart or vascular diseases.

Many children experience insomnia, which can become chronic.

For treatment, the doctor prescribes a herbal remedy. The medicine affects the destruction of gamma-aminobutyric acid, which increases the duration of slow-wave sleep in the child. The process of falling asleep is restored 14 days after the start of treatment.

The medicine is prescribed to correct behavior in hyperactive children experiencing anxiety and fear. In children's practice, valerian rhizome is used to prepare herbal baths.

The medicine is prescribed by a doctor for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder in children 10-15 years old as part of complex therapy.

Giving valerian to an infant is permissible only with the permission of the pediatrician

Is it permissible to give the drug to an infant?

Is it possible to give valerian to children from birth to one year, parents ask their neonatologist. Dr. Komarovsky believes that the medication should not be used to treat newborns. If the doctor has prescribed a medicine, you must strictly follow his instructions and do not increase the dose, because exceeding it can cause irreparable harm to the child’s health. Infants should not be prescribed medication; parents need to establish proper care for the child.

The medicine should not be given to a newborn, because sometimes an allergic reaction develops. The use of a herbal remedy will not restore sleep in an infant if he suffers from teething, headaches, increased nervous excitability, or fear.

Before giving medication, you should consult a doctor. Valerian for children is available in the form of the homeopathic medicine Valerianhel, which causes less harm to the child’s health than an alcohol solution of the herbal remedy.

Valerian, like any medicine, has contraindications for use that must be observed so as not to cause harm to health

Results of studies on the effectiveness of valerian

The effect of the drug in question has been studied for a very long time - interesting experiments are being carried out, the consequences of long-term use of valerian for the body are being studied. Relatively recently, another interesting experiment was conducted by Norwegian scientists.

The purpose of the experiment was to find out how intensely valerian has a hypnotic effect. For this purpose... television viewers were involved in the process - they simply responded to an advertisement for the recruitment of volunteers. All people were divided into two groups - one was given valerian tablets with a dosage of 200 mg (in one tablet), and the other was given a harmless supplement, a placebo. It was prescribed to take 2 tablets in the evening before bed and keep a diary of monitoring the quality of your night's sleep. The volunteers were not told which tablets were given or what the purpose of the experiment was.

The results were amazing! Only 5% improved sleep in people in the group taking valerian tablets. And this indicator only indicated the speed of falling asleep, but the general qualitative characteristics between the two groups of volunteers did not differ at all - the number of night awakenings, the duration of sleep, and the state of health during the subsequent working day were the same.

Thus, we can conclude that valerian does not have a pronounced effect on the quality of night sleep and should not be taken as a sleeping pill. BUT! This experiment was not carried out by official medicine; there is no confirmation from scientists about the results obtained. It may be worth trying to take a placebo instead of valerian - the main thing is to believe in the power of the drug, but if the drug is prescribed by a doctor and is part of complex therapy, then you should not experiment.

Valerian is not such a harmless drug, so it is advisable to consult a specialist before using it. This is not required if a person takes valerian occasionally, not systemically, but it is still necessary to exclude hypersensitivity and possible contraindications.

Tsygankova Yana Aleksandrovna, medical observer, therapist of the highest qualification category.

124, total, today

( 210 votes, average: 4.52 out of 5)

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Price and analogues

Wikipedia says that valerian officinalis is a perennial plant, otherwise called cat grass (as it has a stimulating effect on cats due to its actinidin content). Valerian extract contains essential oil - a combination of borneol and isovaleric acid, which has a safe, mild sedative effect on the body. The composition also includes hoteine ​​and valerine, which have a constant sedative effect.

Body system	Influence
CNS	Depressing
Circulation	Slows the heart rate, dilates coronary vessels
Digestive, urinary	Relaxes muscle tissue, choleretic effect

With long-term treatment, Valerian can cause low blood pressure (hypotension).

An analogue is a drug that has a similar international name, but differs in manufacturer and concentration of the active substance. Analogues of Valerian include:

• Notta
• Nervonorm
• Alora
• Kindinorm
• Sedavit
• Valocordin
• Bromcamphor
• Valdispert
• Valerian forte
• Valerika
• Devaccinated
• Deprim
• Donormil
• Quiet
• Valerian extra
• Klimased
• Valeron
• Menovalen
• Neurosal
• Novo-passit
• Persen
• Motherwort
• Relaxil
• Sedavit
• Sedafiton
• Valerian Lux (Evening biocore)
• Trypsidan
• Flora
• Florised
• Skullcap extract

Level 4 ATX code matches:

• Alora
• Novo-Passit
• Cardiovalen
• Calming collection No. 3
• Calming collection No. 2
• Liked
• Carmolis
• Valerian tincture
• Lotusonic
• Persen Forte
• Persen
• Phytosed
• Bellaspon
• Motherwort Forte Evalar
• Dormiplant
• Valerianahel
• Sondox
• Sedafiton
• Notta
• Peony tincture

Which is better - Valerian or Motherwort?

When answering the question of which is better - valerian or motherwort, it should be taken into account that the effect of motherwort on the human body is almost the same. However, in the treatment of neuroses and cardiovascular diseases, a more pronounced effect is observed when taking motherwort.

Those who are interested in whether this remedy increases or decreases blood pressure should take into account that when taking motherwort, blood pressure levels decrease.

Analogues of Valerian

Drug name	Price, rub.)
Persen	370–410
Valemidin	140–160
Novo-Passit	220–320

Level 4 ATX code matches:

• Alora
• Novo-Passit
• Cardiovalen
• Calming collection No. 3
• Calming collection No. 2
• Liked
• Carmolis
• Lotusonic
• Persen Forte
• Persen
• Phytosed
• Bellaspon
• Motherwort Forte Evalar
• Dormiplant
• Valerianahel
• Sondox
• Sedafiton
• Notta
• Peony tincture
• Menovalen

The most famous substitutes for this drug are herbal drip preparations, similar in their main effect to Valerian Tincture: Corvalol, Motherwort, Hawthorn, Peony, Corvaldin, Valocordin, Barboval, Valecard.

Also very popular is a mixture of tinctures of valerian, motherwort, hawthorn, and peony. You can combine these drugs yourself in equal proportions by purchasing all the tinctures separately at the pharmacy and mixing them in a larger glass bottle.

How long and how often can you drink valerian

Upset, stress, or unpleasant news cause a negative response from the body: the pulse quickens, blood pressure rises, and a person finds himself in a state that prevents him from making adequate decisions. Anxiety, panic or, on the contrary, apathy and lethargy appear.

To pull yourself together and return to normal life, you need to take sedatives. Medicines with valerian are the first thing that comes to mind. They can be purchased at a pharmacy without a doctor's prescription, and their low cost makes them accessible and popular.

How does valerian work?

Essential oils and alkaloids contained in the rhizome and roots of valerian officinalis increase inhibition in the nervous system, reduce reflex excitability, promoting calm, falling asleep and restful sleep.

Valerian in tablets has an antispasmodic effect, dilates coronary blood vessels, and reduces heart rate.

The excitability of the nervous system is reduced, and it ensures restful sleep. The effect of the drug is stable.

In addition, valerian has a choleretic effect and promotes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. As a rule, it is necessary to take the drug in courses.

Dosage

A single dose is 1 tablet, 3 times a day on an empty stomach. Take the tablets with a sufficient amount of water. How many days to take the medicine and the need to increase the dosage is determined by the doctor.

Is it possible for pregnant and lactating women

During pregnancy and nursing mothers, the drug is prescribed by a specialist; there are no strict contraindications, but self-medication must be treated with great caution.

The effect on performance and driving when taking a single therapeutic dose has not been proven.

Valerian tablets for children

A child over one year old may be prescribed valerian tablets with the permission of a neurologist or pediatrician, in cases where the expected benefit outweighs the potential harm.

Storage conditions

Valerian drops (alcohol tincture) are easy to prepare at home.

The general cooking rules are:

• Finely chopped (fragment sizes should be no more than 3 mm) valerian root and rhizome are placed in a dark glass container, filled with 70% ethyl alcohol in a ratio of 1:5.
• put in a dark place for 14 days and kept at room temperature for about 2 weeks;
• remove daily and shake vigorously until completely mixed;
• then the tincture is filtered, poured into dark glass bottles and stored in a dark, cool place. The tincture can be stored under such conditions for up to 4 years.

There are several options for preparing alcohol medicinal tinctures, using which you can obtain drugs of the required concentration:

• the alcohol strength for preparing an alcohol extract can be 70, 40, 20%;
• the higher the alcohol strength, the shorter the infusion period and, vice versa;
• in the absence of ethyl alcohol, it can be replaced with high-quality vodka;
• Usually the following ratio of medicinal raw materials and alcohol is used - 1:10, 2:10, 3:10; 1:5;
• Using a 1:1 ratio allows you to obtain a highly concentrated tincture.

In this case, you need to inhale only through your nose. This method of application is used in folk medicine. It is believed to improve sleep, relieve nervous tension and is an effective way to treat cataracts.

You can prepare a water-based medicinal decoction as follows:

• 2 – 3 tbsp. l. the dried rhizome should be placed in a glass container;
• pour hot water (200 g - 1 glass) and leave in a water bath for 15 minutes under the lid;
• After cooking, cool, then strain and squeeze out the remaining raw materials;
• add boiled water in an amount sufficient to bring the resulting volume of medicine to the original volume.

The infusion should be taken 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals, after stirring it until smooth, in the following dosage:

• for adults and adolescents from 14 years old - 1 tbsp. l.;
• children from 10 to 14 years old - 1 tenth. l.;
• children from 1 to 10 years old – 1 tsp.

• An infusion of rhizome, crushed in a coffee grinder, can be prepared in a thermos: 1 tbsp. powder 200 ml. boiling water. Cooking will take about 6 hours. Drink the resulting infusion 3 times during the day, 1-2 tbsp. l.
• For better preservation of essential oils that volatilize when heated, cold boiled water is often used in the same ratio - 1 tbsp. l. for 1 tbsp. water. The cooking process will take 24 hours. The entire resulting infusion is consumed within one day, divided into several doses.

It must be remembered that if the prepared infusion does not contain alcohol, it cannot be stored for long. Typically, it is recommended to store the aqueous extract for no more than 2 days in the refrigerator, but it is more advisable to prepare a new portion every day, since the concentration of beneficial substances decreases over time.

In some cases, to quickly obtain the effect, up to 1/3 cup of infusion is prescribed. At the same time, the most important condition for taking the medicine is regularity; it is undesirable to skip hours of taking the drug.

Liquid dosage forms of valerian are used for lotions and compresses (externally) for skin diseases of nervous etiology, migraine and neuralgia. A piece of cloth soaked in the infusion is applied to the sore spot until it dries completely, but for no less than 15-20 minutes.

Infusions and decoctions of valerian root are also widely used to prepare therapeutic soothing baths.

The following cooking recipes are common:

• Grind 100 g of valerian root, add 1 liter of water, leave for at least 10 hours, strain.
• Bring 100 g of root to a boil in 2 liters. water, leave for at least 10 minutes, strain. The water for taking baths should be quite cool, in the range of 34 - 37 C, respectively, 15 - 20 minutes will be enough for the procedure. This bath cures insomnia, epilepsy, and has a calming effect. Valerian bath should be taken every other day. The bathing procedure is also effective for excessively restless behavior of children.

In folk medicine, valerian finds many more uses in the form of tinctures and decoctions than the common industrial form in tablets. Of course, the instructions for use cannot cover all types of its use, however, it is still necessary to adhere to the recommended dosage when ingesting a homemade product.

The drug should be applied in a place protected from light and moisture. Temperature conditions are allowed within 25 degrees.

Dangers of overdose of valerian

It is generally accepted that valerian is a very safe remedy, exceeding the recommended dosage of which does not pose any danger to the patient. Because of this, cases of overdose of its drugs are very common, in which patients try to drink a lot of it in order to quickly get the desired effect.

As already mentioned, valerian enhances inhibition processes in the cerebral cortex and thereby has a depressant effect on the central nervous system. Consequently, when taking a large amount of valerian, much higher than recommended, the inhibition processes will be more pronounced, and this can lead to a slowdown in heart rate, bradycardia, which, in turn, can cause coma and cardiac arrest.

Also, overdoses of valerian cause dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract, which will lead to heartburn, severe abdominal pain and cramps.

A dangerous dose of valerian for humans is a dose that exceeds the recommended dose by 20 - 40 times. It is difficult to say exactly what amount is considered a dangerous dose, since it depends on the initial state of the human body, the presence of chronic diseases, diseases of the cardiovascular or nervous systems, age, the drugs used and, in fact, the form of the valerian preparation.

First aid for an overdose of valerian, if the victim is conscious and no more than 2 hours have passed since the overdose, is:

• Gastric lavage by taking large amounts of water and inducing vomiting
• Taking sorbents (activated carbon, enterosgel, etc.)
• Using sodium sulfate to cleanse the intestines.

If the victim is unconscious or more than 2 hours have passed since the poisoning, it is necessary to call an ambulance.

Contraindications for use

The medicine should not be taken if you are hypersensitive.

The medication is taken under the supervision of a doctor by patients suffering from diseases such as:

• inflammation of the small intestine;
• liver diseases;
• pathology of the central nervous system.

The drug, produced in tablets, is contraindicated in the following pathological conditions:

• allergy;
• fructose intolerance;
• insufficient amount of sucrose or isomaltose;
• with glucose-galactose loss of nutrients;
• patients under 12 years of age.

The use of the drug in children increases the risk of complications by 1.5-4 times if the dose of the drug is incorrectly selected. Do not prescribe medicine to a child under 1.5 months of age, because there is a high risk of side effects.

Possible overdose of medication; as a result, the patient develops vascular spasm. In young patients, the process of removing the drug from the body is slowed down, so the likelihood of drug accumulation increases. The use of medication in drops in children with gastrointestinal diseases leads to undesirable effects - vomiting, increased gas formation.

If dosages are not observed, side effects may occur in the form of inhibition of nervous system functions

Why Valerian May Be Dangerous for Children

Valerian does not always benefit a child. In case of overdose, side effects occur. The patient behaves inappropriately and becomes uncontrollable. The doctor determines the cause of the disease, explains to parents how to take the medication, and indicates the single and daily dose.

The drug exhibits side effects.

After taking the medication, constipation and overexcitation of the nervous system often occur. The child's reaction speed decreases. Sometimes drowsiness and depressed mood appear. In some children, taking the medicine may cause the development of an allergic reaction, Quincke's edema.

Long-term use of the drug leads to delayed mental development of the child. When and how to drink valerian, the doctor decides. Often the patient experiences symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia and blood pressure rises, so the pediatrician prescribes a herbal preparation that benefits the patient.

Description of Valerian

Valerian extract is produced in the form of tablets for oral administration. The tablet may be yellow or brown. Valerian tablets are coated; the package may contain 10 or 50 tablets.

Valerian is available in two forms:

• Coated tablets or dragees for oral use, yellow or brown, round in shape, containing 200 mg of plant extract. The package contains 10 or 50 tablets. Black (brown) tablet is uncoated, yellow is coated.
• Valerian tincture is a yellow-red solution with a specific odor. Each bottle contains crushed valerian rhizomes 1:5.

Valerian tincture is produced in the form of oral drops in glass bottles of 15 ml / 25 ml / 50 ml / 100 ml.

Plants from a few centimeters to 1.5 m in height, herbs, less often shrubs, with opposite, lobed, pinnately dissected or entire leaves, small asymmetrical irregular flowers with a bell-shaped, tube-shaped or funnel-shaped corolla and a characteristic one-sided bag-like swelling at the base.

About 200 species, more than 40% of them grow in the Andes. Plants are very diverse in the structure of vegetative organs and adaptability to living conditions. Among them there are herbs ranging in size from a few centimeters (Celtic valerian) to giants 1.5 - 2 m (Valerian officinalis), shrub species that live in the Andes and reach a height of 2.5 m (Valerian pubescent and small-leaved). They live in cold highlands, arctic tundras, and deserts, in dry rocks and swamps.

There are 26 species growing in Russia. These are perennial herbs that are found on any soil and in any temperature conditions, developing especially well in areas with high humidity, on river banks, in swampy areas, in water meadows, often forming dense thickets that can be used for harvesting roots.

Valerian plants are used in the medical industry to make sedatives, stimulants and tonics. It is part of Valocordin, Cardiovalene, Zelenin drops, sedatives, remedies for insomnia, for example, the complex preparation “evening valerian”, which additionally includes mint and lemon balm, which enhances its calming effect.

Contraindications

Valerian, the price of which ranges from 12 to 20 rubles, can also harm a person if used incorrectly. Do not forget that this is a drug that has side effects and contraindications. When taking the drug, you should follow all the doctor’s recommendations and instructions. Valerian tincture has a negative effect in case of overdose.

Who should not take the drug? This list includes:

• Pregnant and lactating women.
• Those who have an individual intolerance to one of the components of the tincture.
• Suffering from chronic enterocolitis.
• Contraindications should be taken into account before taking the drug.

Enterocolitis is also a contraindication, which can be aggravated by the influence of both valerian and the alcohol from its tincture.

Valerian preparations are low-toxic and, if the dosage is not exceeded, they are well tolerated by the body. Side effects include rash, dizziness, and slow heartbeat.

If the drug dose has been exceeded, weakness, low blood pressure and depression may occur.

You should not constantly exceed the dose, as this can lead to mental agitation and slow digestion.

Even when taking the drug according to the regimen recommended by the doctor, there may be a decrease in performance, weakening of muscles, and lethargy. A person may take too long to make a decision, and his speech becomes drawn out.

You should not take valerian as a sedative if you have:

• increased blood clotting;
• inflammatory processes in the small and large intestine;
• inflamed kidneys.

It should also not be taken for diseases that depress the central nervous system.

Sometimes an allergic reaction may occur to the components of valerian. Children are more prone to it.

It manifests itself as gastrointestinal disorder, dermatitis, redness, itching. If these symptoms are detected, the drug should be discontinued.

Overdose

If you take more valerian than the doctor wrote, the following undesirable reactions may occur:

• general weakness and strong desire to sleep;
• allergic manifestations such as rash and itching;
• nausea and vomiting;
• severe migraines;
• lowering blood pressure;
• dizziness;
• exacerbation of chronic diseases;
• depressive deviations, apathy towards everything.

Depressive deviations

Should I take valerian tablets?

When used correctly, valerian has a slow but stable effect, which is fully manifested only after a course of treatment. As for the effectiveness of the drug in emergency cases, it is extremely low. When taken once, the effect of the medicine is insignificant, so it is not prescribed when there is an urgent need to lower blood pressure, ease a spasm, or reduce nervous tension.

Scientific studies have mostly studied the sedative and hypnotic effects of valerian. Their results showed that the drug can improve sleep quality, reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and reduce nervous arousal. It should be borne in mind that for complex diseases of the nervous system, valerian is ineffective.

In the treatment of diseases of the cardiovascular system and digestive tract, valerian is prescribed only together with other drugs. Due to its weak therapeutic effect, it is not recommended to be taken as a primary drug.

Only a doctor can determine the advisability of prescribing valerian after making a diagnosis. When used correctly, the product can be effective and safe. If you drink valerian without taking into account contraindications or without knowing all its pharmacological properties, you can cause significant harm to your health.

What do doctors and patients say?

It will tell you how and when you can take the medicine “Valerian” in tablets, instructions. Reviews from patients and doctors will help to obtain more complete information about the effect of the medicine. This drug has a long history, with many generations of patients taking it for various purposes. According to reviews, the medicine is very calming, helping to fall asleep and save nerves. It, in combination with other drugs, is suitable for the treatment of migraine headaches. Many responses thank valerian for helping to relieve colic and spasms of the abdominal organs. Doctors also leave advisory reviews about the drug “Valerian”, stipulating that consultation with a specialist is still necessary to choose the correct dosage of the drug and course of treatment.

When should the drug not be taken?

The drug in Valerian tablets has mostly positive reviews, although there are also those that carry neutral and, very rarely, negative information. After all, like all medicines, this herbal preparation has its contraindications for use. This herbal medicine should not be taken if you have the following health conditions:

• high sensitivity to the components of the drug;
• glucose-galactose malabsorption.

Also, this medicine should not be taken by children under three years of age and by women in the first trimester of pregnancy. This is due to the lack of specific clinical data on which of the active components of the root with valerian rhizomes provide a therapeutic effect.

Which is better: Corvalol, valerian, motherwort or glycine?

Let's compare several drugs that have a good effect on reducing feelings of stress, relieve anxiety and have a calming effect. So, which is better: Corvalol, valerian, motherwort or glycine? Let’s look at the effect of the medications in the table.

Drug Effect	Corvalol	Valerian	Motherwort	Glycine
Vessels	Low impact	Dilates and weakens the walls of blood vessels	No strong impact, suitable for children under 3 years of age	Can be given to newborns, does not harm blood vessels
Heart	Has a strong effect on the functioning of the heart muscle, prevents heart attack	Has little effect, only weakens the rhythm of work	It can be given to children in the form of baths; it has a calming effect on the heart together with chamomile.	It will not help adults cope with anxiety or arrhythmia.
CNS	Does not affect	Strongly acts as a sedative	Has a depressing effect and causes anxiety	Does not accumulate in the body, but has phenobarbital, which is not excreted from blood cells
Digestive organs	Contains alcohol ether, has a negative effect on the liver	Does not affect	Has a diuretic effect	Affects the gastrointestinal tract, cleansing it

As you can see, those drugs that contain chemical components, alcohols and acids, can not only cause harm, but remain in the blood for a long time. Some substances are not excreted, but their effect ends faster. Natural and safe drugs can be given to children, but will have little effect on an adult.

Adverse reactions and symptoms of overdose

Despite the obvious benefits of valerian, its use can sometimes cause harm, expressed in adverse reactions. This happens even if the dosage and frequency of administration are observed.

When treated with drugs containing extracts of this plant, the following undesirable effects can be observed:

• reactions from the nervous system - drowsiness, lethargy;
• digestive disorders – nausea, heartburn;
• constipation – a reaction to prolonged use of the drug;
• allergic manifestations;
• arrhythmia;
• headache;
• impaired muscle tone, weakness.

If one of these symptoms occurs, the drug should be discontinued. If a severe allergic reaction occurs, you should consult a doctor immediately.

When consuming large doses of valerian, overdose may occur. These signs include:

• nausea;
• diarrhea or constipation;
• apathy, drowsiness;
• blood pressure surges;
• a state of increased arousal, the person looks flushed, his signs quickly expand, and his head may hurt.

Is it permissible to give the drug to a baby?

Valerian tablets and tincture are strictly forbidden to be given to infants. The tablets are not recommended for use in young children, since they are not able to chew them, and the tincture contains ethyl alcohol, which is contraindicated for children under one year of age. If the child still needs to be given valerian, the mother should take it and then breastfeed the baby. This way the baby will receive a relatively safe dose of the medicine.

Another way to use medicinal herbs is aromatherapy. A small piece of cotton wool soaked in a tincture or decoction of the plant is placed near the head of the crib. The essential oils contained in the herb evaporate and have a beneficial effect on the baby’s nervous system.

Prescription of valerian for other diseases

Valerian provides mild choleretic and antispasmodic effects.

It is also useful to read: All about the use of valerian during breastfeeding

Due to this, it is used in complex treatment:

• Some pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract;
• Gallbladder and bile ducts;
• Antispasmodic pain;
• Spastic conditions of smooth muscle organs.

Sometimes valerian is recommended to be used for hypertonicity of the uterus to weaken it. In traditional medicine, the drug is practically not used for this purpose, since it is not recommended during pregnancy due to a lack of information about its effectiveness and safety. If a pregnant woman has increased uterine tone, gynecologists most often prescribe other special remedies that relieve it.

Latest clinical studies: a new look at valerian extract in pharmacology

The consumption volume of valerian root extract is very high. The medicine is popular not only in Russia, but also in all European countries. About 50 million packages of the drug are sold here per year. With such massive consumption of valerian, no serious side effects or complications have been recorded. Cases of overdose are extremely rare. This confirms the safety of the drug. What new information has been obtained from the latest clinical trials of the drug?

• The best therapeutic effect occurs after taking the medicine for 1 month compared to a two-week course.
• Valerian cannot treat depression; it relieves the initial signs of stress well, helps with mild forms of neuroses and sleep disturbances.
• The safety of valerian has been confirmed when used in children over 12 years of age.
• Clinical trials have also been conducted in children under 12 and 7 years of age, and no side effects were found.
• But even with such studies, valerian in tablets and other dosage forms in children under 12 years of age is prescribed only by a doctor.
• There are still few clinical trials examining valerian's interactions with other medications, foods, and alcohol.
• Valerian is classified as a medicine with low toxicity, but an objective assessment of the safety of valerian during pregnancy and lactation has not yet been given.
• Previously, the acceptable dose for a single dose was considered to be 300 mg; now higher single doses are recommended - from 300 to 1000 mg per tablet.

Modern clinical studies show that single doses of less than 100 mg can be classified as placebos, which affect patients only psychologically.

Instructions for use of valerian tablets are not a guide to self-treatment. The dosage and course of treatment are determined by the doctor. You cannot get carried away with valerian, despite the fact that it is a herbal preparation. Valerian tablets are used with extreme caution in children, pregnant and lactating women, as well as drivers.

Applications and dosages

for adults

The standard treatment regimen for most manufacturers of valerian tablets involves taking the drug three times a day. Swallow the tablet without chewing and wash it down with water. Preferably taken after meals. A single dose can vary from 1 to 3 tablets. It depends on the patient’s condition and the nature of the pathology. If well tolerated, the drug can be used for a long time. The clinical effect will be noticeable a few days after the start of treatment.

for children

The doctor determines the single dose and duration of treatment individually for each child. Typically, experts prescribe half a tablet twice a day for children aged 5 years. Restrictions and contraindications should be found in the instructions for the specific drug you are going to buy.

for pregnant women and during lactation

Changes in hormonal levels during pregnancy often lead to unexpected mood swings in a woman, which both she and others do not like. Some doctors consider Valerian an absolutely harmless drug and prescribe it to normalize a woman’s psycho-emotional state. Doses may be adjusted downwards. The final word on the possibility of taking the medicine in this category of patients remains with the doctor.

Analogues of the drug

There are various commercial names for valerian tablets, which are produced from the same raw material - a thick extract of valerian. They differ in manufacturer, packaging, number of tablets, volume in mg (125, 200, 300) and price. What are the most popular trade names for valerian extract?

• "Valerian forte"

• "Dormiplant-valerian" (with the addition of lemon balm extract).
• "Valerian extract."
• "Valdispert".

Valerian is also produced in other dosage forms:

• capsules;
• aqueous extract;
• alcohol tincture of roots and rhizomes;
• squeezed juice of roots and rhizomes.

Valerian may also be included in other medications.

Signs of overdose: nausea, vomiting, lethargy, decreased motor skills, lethargy, chest tightness, hand tremors, hearing loss, dilated pupils, rapid heartbeat. If these symptoms are detected, you urgently need to rinse your stomach and take sorbents. In critical conditions, it is necessary to urgently call an ambulance. Further use of valerian in case of symptoms of overdose and severe side effects should be stopped and consult a doctor.

Release forms, composition and effect of the drug

If valerian is given to a child without following the recommendations, the following complications may occur:

• increased drowsiness;
• schoolchildren become inattentive and cannot concentrate on the task;
• depression and indifference appear;
• allergies and constipation.

Long-term use of the drug can provoke a lag in the emotional and mental development of the child.

If you do not take into account the contraindications for taking valerian, ignoring the recommended dosage and form of the drug, the following side effects may occur:

• depression;
• drowsiness – the child will walk lethargically all day and will fall asleep at every opportunity;
• decreased performance;
• headache;
• nausea;
• diarrhea;
• allergic reaction - skin rash, constipation (occurs with long-term use of the drug).

It is also worth knowing that the drug often has an inadequate effect on children 1-2 years old and older. They become restless, whiny and irritable. And the younger the child, the higher the likelihood of this reaction occurring.

Some doctors believe that taking valerian by children may delay their development. A possible reason for this phenomenon is the suppression of activity, which is the stimulus for the mental and physical development of the child. While other experts do not agree with this point of view. Because good, healthy sleep is also of great importance in the normal development of a child.

Therefore, the question of whether children can take valerian is quite controversial, but if there are indications for taking the drug and medical recommendations, this remedy can be used as treatment.

What are the indications for using valerian?

While taking tablets or valerian tincture, the following may occur:

• Allergic rash or swelling.
• Lethargy.
• Drowsiness.
• Depressed mood.
• Reduced performance.
• Constipation.

In some children, taking valerian can lead to completely opposite effects - the child becomes restless, excitable, cries and screams. In such a situation, the medication is immediately discontinued.

Medicinal properties of valerian root and contraindications

Chemical composition of valerian

• Isovaleric acid;
• Tannins;
• Essential oil;
• Glycosides;
• Organic acids (butyric, acetic, formic);
• Alkaloids;
• Resins;
• Gum;
• Sugars and starch.

Properly prepared root has a lot of beneficial properties for humans.

Medicinal properties

• Calming;
• Relaxing;
• Antipyretics;
• Choleretic;
• Antibacterial;
• Antimicrobial;
• General strengthening;
• Sedatives;
• Anticonvulsants;
• Anthelmintic.

Beneficial effects of valerian

• Reduces the excitability of the central nervous system and enhances inhibitory processes;
• Relaxes smooth muscle spasms;
• Dilates the blood vessels of the heart;
• Lowers blood pressure;
• Normalizes coronary circulation;
• Improves falling asleep and quality of sleep (removes fears and nightmares);
• Stabilizes the function of the endocrine glands;
• Accelerates blood clotting;
• Increases appetite;
• Relieves spasms of the esophagus;
• Strengthens the immune system.

Decoctions and infusions with valerian root will help improve health and cope with many diseases

What does it help with?

Valerian root in complex therapy will help alleviate the condition and cure many diseases:

• Neurosis, hysteria, insomnia;
• Headache;
• Seizures and epilepsy;
• Coronary insufficiency;
• Heart disease, angina pectoris, vascular dystonia;
• Nervous fatigue;
• Climax;
• Cold;
• Pneumonia and asthma;
• Hypertension;
• Avitaminosis;
• Pulmonary tuberculosis;
• Diabetes;
• Neurodermatitis;
• Periodontal disease;
• Constipation and hemorrhoids;
• Weak immunity.

Contraindications

Taking valerian is not recommended:

• With a deficiency of sucrose and lactose;
• For fructose intolerance;
• Nursing women during lactation;
• Children under three years old;
• In case of individual intolerance to the components.

Indications for taking valerian

Modern medications based on valerian root extract are widely represented in the pharmacy chain. Doctors recommend using these medications for:

• disorders of the central nervous system (neurotic disorders, hysteria, etc.);
• sleep disorders;
• convulsive phenomena;
• headaches (including hangover);
• increased vascular tone (hypertension);
• epileptic seizures;
• cardiac neuroses;
• tachycardia;
• disorders of the liver and bile ducts;
• spasms;
• neurodermatitis;
• bloating, increased gas formation;
• symptoms of thyrotoxicosis (fever, increased heart rate).

For women

Rhizomes and roots have medicinal properties for women. The plant is used:

1. During menopause. During the period of restructuring of the body, insomnia and a feeling of fatigue are noted. It is valerian (tablets, decoctions) that helps improve sleep, relieve irritability and significantly improve overall health.
2. During pregnancy. During this period, any nervous condition and overstrain are dangerous for a woman, as this can affect the health of the unborn baby. The healing properties during pregnancy include an antispasmodic and sedative effect.

The use of drugs or decoctions of valerian root is recommended for women with anxiety, nervous excitement, stress, tearfulness, and insomnia. An alternative to internal use is a warm, relaxing bath with a decoction of the plant (7-8 tablespoons of crushed roots, brew in 1 liter of boiling water, infuse and pour out).

For children

A child’s insufficiently strengthened nervous system forms unstable behavior, excitability, restlessness and capriciousness. Doctors prescribe valerian to children for the following disorders:

• hyperactivity;
• neurasthenia;
• insomnia;
• food apathy;
• tachycardia;
• migraine;
• increased nervous excitability;
• spasms in the gastrointestinal tract;
• hysteria.

How much should children drink? Despite its plant origin, valerian is a powerful sedative, so it is important to follow the dosage instructions that come with pharmacy tinctures and tablets. Abuse of medications based on valerian roots can lead to depression, decreased performance, drowsiness, allergic rash, problems with stool, developmental delays

Valerian herb is contraindicated for children under 1 year of age. After the baby has celebrated his first year, you can give him 1 drop, a 2-year-old child - 2 drops, and so on.

Features of taking valerian for cardiovascular diseases

Valerian acts on the central nervous system, due to which it indirectly affects the cardiovascular system. In particular, it affects the functioning of the heart and helps normalize heart rate. Valerian also promotes vasodilation, which, with long-term treatment, provides a small but stable hypotensive effect. In addition, some components of valerian directly affect the coronary vessels and help normalize coronary circulation.

Instructions for use of valerian tablets.

In the instructions for use of valerian you can see that the list of indications includes mild functional diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Medicine is prescribed for:

• Hypertension;
• Arrhythmias;
• Extrasystoles;
• Sinus tachycardia;
• Heart neurosis and some other diseases.

In the treatment of diseases of the heart and blood vessels, valerian is used only in combination with other drugs. Due to its weak therapeutic effect, it is not considered as a primary drug. Valerian is often used to reduce anxiety and nervous excitement, which may be one of the reasons provoking functional disorders in the heart.

On a note

In folk medicine, a remedy based on valerian, dill and honey is often recommended for the treatment of heart disease. Its effectiveness has not been proven in any way, and its use without diagnostics, correct diagnosis and selection of appropriate treatment may not be useful, but, on the contrary, very dangerous.

For cardiovascular diseases, valerian is used as part of a treatment complex and is prescribed for 2 weeks or a month. Sometimes the medicine is used intermittently for a longer period of time.

A course of treatment with valerian provides a stable hypotensive effect and prevents sudden changes in heart rate. In a study conducted in 2002 by scientist M. Cropley, it was found that after 30 days of taking valerian, the experiment participants' blood pressure and heart rate in a stressful situation remained within normal limits, unlike participants in the control group.

However, in emergency situations, valerian is practically ineffective. It does not provide a rapid reduction in blood pressure or normalization of pulse. If you experience rapid heartbeat, pain in the heart, or a feeling as if there is something pressing behind the breastbone, you should definitely seek medical help, because such a condition can be life-threatening. After making a diagnosis, to relieve such symptoms, the doctor may advise taking Corvalol, Validol or other fast-acting drugs. These same symptoms may indicate very serious diseases that require long-term complex therapy.

On a note

It is believed that valerian tincture has a faster effect than tablets. To some extent this is true. Drops that are diluted in a small amount of water before use are absorbed faster by the body due to the small amount of alcohol they contain. At the same time, the effectiveness of the drug does not become higher and in emergency cases, when the heart hurts or the blood pressure has increased greatly, it is not advisable to use it.

Where does valerian grow?

People learned about the plant valerian officinalis many, many centuries ago. After all, its homeland is the Mediterranean. It was there that it began to be used as a sedative. The plant itself and its medicinal uses spread throughout Europe. For more than 200 years, it has been introduced into cultivation as a honey plant and a medicinal plant. Now valerian officinalis grows in the wild, in lowlands, on the edges of forests in temperate and subtropical zones, and is also cultivated for the needs of the pharmaceutical industry.

Analogs

The undoubted advantage of valerian extract in comparison with other medications is its availability. Other drugs that are sedatives can be considered as an analogue of the drug.

Persen

The drug Persen contains plant components. The drug has sedative and antispasmodic properties. The drug is actively used in patients over the age of 12 years with increased irritability, sleep disturbances and other psycho-emotional pathologies. The product has a high safety record and extremely rarely causes side effects. The drug is approved for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Novopassit

The medicinal sedative drug Novopassit contains only herbal components. The medication is produced in the form of capsules intended for oral administration. The product is recommended for use in patients over 12 years of age. The drug is effective in comparison with other analogues. During treatment, you should avoid drinking alcohol due to the high risk of adverse reactions of this combination.

Dormiplant

Dormiplant is a drug that has a direct effect on the central nervous system. The composition has mild sedative properties. The medication contains herbal components and is well tolerated by different categories of the population. The drug does not provoke the appearance of adverse reactions from various organs and vital systems. Before using the drug, you should familiarize yourself with the risks of adverse reactions.

Motherwort forte

The composition of motherwort forte is not a medicinal product. Motherwort forte produced by Evalar is a biologically active supplement. The drug is well tolerated and helps to effectively eliminate the symptoms of nervous stress. Contraindication to the use of the product is children under 18 years of age, as for all dietary supplements.