Valerian, an herbal supplement long used for sleep and relaxation, has been referred to as "nature's Valium" — but experts are divided on whether it truly compares to the prescription sedative.The herb, which is sold as a dietary supplement in the U.S., is a common ingredient in products marketed as "mild sedatives" and sleep aids, according to the National Institutes of Health. Valium, the brand name for diazepam, is used to treat anxiety, seizures and muscle spasms by calming the nervous system, Cleveland Clinic notes.EXPERTS REVEAL EXACT BEDTIME THAT COULD PREVENT LATE-NIGHT ‘SECOND WIND’ INSOMNIAValerian supplements are derived from the roots of Valeriana officinalis, a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia that has also naturalized in northeastern America, according to the American Botanical Council (ABC).The plant has a "long history of medicinal use," per the ABC, with the primary goal of reducing anxiety and stress as well as improving sleep quality. It has historically also been used for migraines, fatigue and stomach cramps.Dried valerian roots can be prepared as teas or tinctures, while other plant materials and extracts have been distributed as capsules or tablets, per the NIH.The agency noted, however, that there is a "relatively small amount of research" investigating the herb’s impact on various conditions.POPULAR SLEEP POSITIONS COULD BE DAMAGING YOUR NERVES, ACCORDING TO EXPERTSHowever, Stefan Gafner, PhD, chief science officer of the American Botanical Council in Texas, confirmed that some clinical trials have explored valerian root's effects.A 2020 medical review published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine found that both powdered root and root extracts show a "clear" benefit in treating anxiety, Gafner told Fox News Digital.The researchers concluded that valerian could be a "safe and effective herb to promote sleep and prevent associated disorders."CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIESWhile valerian may have some benefits, Gafner said he doesn't think it "makes sense" to compare it to diazepam (Valium). "I can understand that both are used to relieve anxiety, but valerian is a much milder ingredient, and is really used for mild cases of anxiety and sleep issues," he told Fox News Digital.Unlike valerian, diazepam carries a risk of dependence and is generally prescribed short-term, the expert said, and the spectrum of potential adverse effects is "very different."MISSING SLEEP MAY TAKE A HIDDEN TOLL ON YOUR BRAIN AND LONGEVITY, RESEARCH REVEALSGafner said he "absolutely" recommends the use of valerian root to relieve anxiety and stress and to… [TheTopNews] Read More.
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