This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before using herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
Valeriana officinalis subsp. tiliifolia
Free herbal dosage calculator — adult & child doses by weight.
Tibetan Valerian works primarily through its active compounds, valerenic acid and valepotriates, which interact with GABA-A receptors in the brain. These compounds increase the availability of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the body's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, by both stimulating GABA release and inhibiting its breakdown. This mechanism produces calming and sedative effects that help induce sleep. The flavonoids present may also contribute to anxiolytic activity. Evidence Level A supports this mechanism of action.
Tibetan Valerian should not be combined with prescription sedatives, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or other sleep medications without medical supervision. Concurrent use can cause additive central nervous system depression, leading to excessive drowsiness, impaired coordination, and potentially dangerous respiratory depression. This herb may also interact with antidepressants and antihistamines with sedating properties. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before combining valerian with any prescription medications.
The standard adult dosage for Tibetan Valerian extract is 300-600mg taken 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. For best results, consistent use over 2-4 weeks may be necessary, as immediate effects vary between individuals. Start with the lower dose to assess personal tolerance. Liquid extracts and teas are also available, though standardized extracts ensure consistent valerenic acid content. Evidence Level A supports this dosage range for sleep disorders.
Tibetan Valerian is considered unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The sedative compounds, including valepotriates, may cross the placental barrier and pass into breast milk, potentially affecting fetal and infant neurological development. No adequate clinical studies have established safety in pregnant or nursing women. Women who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding should avoid this herb entirely and consult a healthcare provider for alternative options.
Common side effects of Tibetan Valerian include morning drowsiness, vivid or unusual dreams, and occasional headache. Some users experience gastrointestinal discomfort or dry mouth. These effects are typically mild and often resolve with continued use or dosage adjustment. Paradoxical stimulation, causing restlessness rather than sedation, occurs in some individuals. Avoid operating heavy machinery or driving until you understand how this herb affects you. Evidence Level A supports this safety profile.
PubMed-compiled information sheet
This sheet was compiled from PubMed (NIH) abstracts using AI assistance. Every factual claim is cited to a real PubMed article (see the source list). It has not yet been human-reviewed — confirm with a healthcare provider before use.
Compiled from 10 PubMed articles · model: gemma4:31b
No direct government monograph is available for this herb. The content below is AI-generated and has not been verified against an authoritative government source. Use the search links to check official sources before relying on this information.