Valerian Root Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Gaia Herbs
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Valerian Root against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.
Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy
Valerian Root is a dietary supplement by Gaia Herbs with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for insomnia and poor sleep, anxiety and stress, restlessness.Based on those ingredients, 902 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are organic Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Valerian Root by Gaia Herbs
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AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Valerian Root by Gaia Herbs
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
This product contains one active ingredient: organic Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract. Valerian root has been used traditionally as a calming herb, and the extract concentrates its active compounds.
The liquid formulation also includes vegetable glycerin and water as inactive ingredients.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
Valerian is possibly effective for insomnia based on available evidence. For other uses—restless legs syndrome, pre-procedural anxiety, stress, and menstrual cramps—the evidence isn't established well enough to rate it.
If you're considering valerian for sleep, talk with your pharmacist about whether the evidence matches your situation.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Valerian is generally well tolerated in the short term, though long-term safety hasn't been thoroughly studied. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, mental slowness, headache, and vivid dreams.
Some people report excitability or stomach upset. If you use valerian regularly and then stop suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms like increased heart rate, anxiety, irritability, or insomnia—so taper your dose slowly after extended use rather than stopping abruptly.
Valerian should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding because safety hasn't been established in these situations. Rare cases of liver inflammation have been reported with multi-ingredient products containing valerian, though a single case doesn't prove causation.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking Gaia Herbs Valerian Root, double-check any central nervous system depressants you take—sedatives, anti-anxiety medications like alprazolam, sleep aids, and muscle relaxants (Moderate severity). Also verify any drugs metabolized through glucuronidation and avoid alcohol.
Minor interactions are possible with drugs processed by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 enzymes, though clinical evidence suggests these are unlikely to be significant.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Valerian may help with sleep onset if the evidence aligns with your needs, but it's not appropriate if you take sedating medications, anti-anxiety drugs, or sleep aids without your doctor's approval. Skip it during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Check your medications with the tool on this page before starting.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jul 21, 2022.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about Valerian Root, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Gaia Herbs |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 751063353403 |
| Net contents | 1 Fluid Ounce(s); 30 mL |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jul 21, 2022 |
| DSLD ID | 270562 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Liquid |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating) |
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.
Supplement Facts
The label details for Valerian Root by Gaia Herbs, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| organic Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract | 1.33 mL | -- |
Other ingredients: Vegetable Glycerin, Water
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
General Statements
Enter ID# at meetyourherbs.com
Facebook Instagram @gaiaherbs
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Use Adults take 30-40 drops in a small amount of water. Take 1-2 times within 1 hour before bed. Shake well before use.
Precautions
Not for use during pregnancy or lactation. If you have a medical condition or take medications, please consult with your doctor before use.
Store away from children.
Use only as directed on label. Safety-sealed at neck of bottle.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Formula
Glycerin based
1:3 herb strength ratio 333 mg/mL herb equivalency
Formulation
Sleep support Traditionally for supporting a natural transition to sleep
FDA Statement of Identity
Herbal Supplement
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Valerian Root by Gaia Herbs label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in Valerian Root by Gaia Herbs
This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 mL Dosage formLiquid Servings per container23 Amounts shown are per serving.
Organic Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract
Interacts with902 drugs
Valerian is an herb whose root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and for calming nerves. The evidence is mixed and often weak, so it may help some...
Organic Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Vegetable Glycerin, Water. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Valerian Root by Gaia Herbs Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Gaia Herbs Valerian Root can interact with several medication types, most notably with central nervous system depressants like sedatives, anti-anxiety medications, and sleep aids.
Valerian has sedative effects of its own, and when combined with these drugs—including alprazolam (Xanax)—you're looking at additive drowsiness and mental slowness. The interaction is Moderate in severity.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Valerian also affects how your body processes certain medications through glucuronidation, a liver pathway. It may weakly increase levels of drugs metabolized by the enzymes UGT1A1 and UGT2B7 (Moderate severity).
Additionally, alcohol combined with valerian poses a Moderate interaction risk due to additive sedative effects—excessive drowsiness has been reported. Minor interactions exist with drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 enzymes, though clinical studies suggest these are unlikely to be significant.
Altogether, these interactions span 891 individual medications. Use the medication checker below to verify your exact prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs before starting this product.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Valerian Root?
Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.
Go to the checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Valerian Root interact with 902 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
1 of the 1 ingredient in Valerian Root interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. organic Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract
Acetaminophen, Phenyltoloxamine, SalicylamideLobac
How Acetaminophen, Phenyltoloxamine, Salicylamide interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractGlucuronidated Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Phenyltoloxamine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, PropoxypheneDarvocet-N 100, Darvocet-N 50, E-Lor, Wygesic
How Acetaminophen, Propoxyphene interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractGlucuronidated Drugs, Cns Depressants +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Propoxyphene interactionAcetaminophen, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Sinus, Dristan N.D., Non-Aspirin Sinus, Ornex, Ornex-Max, Sinutab +5 more
How Acetaminophen, Pseudoephedrine interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractGlucuronidated Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Pseudoephedrine interactionAcetaminophen, Pseudoephedrine, TriprolidineActifed Plus ES
How Acetaminophen, Pseudoephedrine, Triprolidine interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractGlucuronidated Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Pseudoephedrine, Triprolidine interactionAcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox
How Acetazolamide interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Acetazolamide interactionAlfentanilAlfenta
How Alfentanil interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Alfentanil interactionAlprazolamNiravam, Xanax
How Alprazolam interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Alprazolam interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAminoglutethimideCytadren
How Aminoglutethimide interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aminoglutethimide interactionAminophylline, Amobarbital, EphedrineAmesec
How Aminophylline, Amobarbital, Ephedrine interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aminophylline, Amobarbital, Ephedrine interactionAmitriptylineElavil
How Amitriptyline interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cns Depressants +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Amitriptyline interactionAmitriptyline, ChlordiazepoxideLimbitrol DS
How Amitriptyline, Chlordiazepoxide interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cns Depressants +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Amitriptyline, Chlordiazepoxide interactionAmitriptyline, PerphenazineEtrafon, Etrafon-A, Etrafon-Forte, Triavil
How Amitriptyline, Perphenazine interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cns Depressants +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Amitriptyline, Perphenazine interactionAmobarbitalAmytal
How Amobarbital interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Amobarbital interactionAmobarbital, Ephedrine SulfateEphedrine & Amytal
How Amobarbital, Ephedrine Sulfate interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Amobarbital, Ephedrine Sulfate interactionAmobarbital, SecobarbitalTuinal
How Amobarbital, Secobarbital interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Amobarbital, Secobarbital interactionApomorphineAPO-go, APO-go Pen, APO-go PFS, Apokyn, Uprima
How Apomorphine interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractGlucuronidated Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Apomorphine interactionApomorphine HydrochlorideKynmobi
How Apomorphine Hydrochloride interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractGlucuronidated Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Apomorphine Hydrochloride interactionAprobarbital, Butabarbital, PhenobarbitalTriple Barbital
How Aprobarbital, Butabarbital, Phenobarbital interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aprobarbital, Butabarbital, Phenobarbital interactionAripiprazoleAbilify, Abilify Maintena, Abilify Mycite
How Aripiprazole interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aripiprazole interactionAripiprazole LauroxilAristada, Aristada Initio Kit
How Aripiprazole Lauroxil interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cns Depressants +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aripiprazole Lauroxil interactionAspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine PhosphateFiorinal w/ Codeine
How Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interactionAspirin, Caffeine, Codeine PhosphateAnacin w/ Codeine
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cns Depressants +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interactionAspirin, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine BitartrateSynalgos DC
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine Bitartrate interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine Bitartrate interactionAspirin, Caffeine, HydrocodoneDamason-P
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Hydrocodone interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Hydrocodone interactionAspirin, Caffeine, Phenacetin, PropoxypheneMargesic Comp. 65
How Aspirin, Caffeine, Phenacetin, Propoxyphene interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cns Depressants +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aspirin, Caffeine, Phenacetin, Propoxyphene interactionAspirin, Carisoprodol, Codeine PhosphateSoma Compound w/ Codeine
How Aspirin, Carisoprodol, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aspirin, Carisoprodol, Codeine Phosphate interactionAspirin, Codeine PhosphateAspirin w/ Codeine
How Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate interactionAspirin, Codeine Phosphate, MethocarbamolRobaxisal C
How Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Methocarbamol interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCns Depressants, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Methocarbamol interactionAspirin, Codeine Phosphate, PhenobarbitalPhenaphen
How Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Phenobarbital interacts with Valerian Root — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Organic Valerian (valeriana Officinalis) Root Extract + Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Phenobarbital interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Valerian Root with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
organic Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract
Alcohol (Ethanol)
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with alcohol.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might have an additive sedative effect when combined with alcohol. Excessive sedation has been reported in an alcohol-abusing individual who took valerian and Gingko biloba. However, the potential interaction between valerian and alcohol has been disputed in other research. Limited evidence suggests that a combination of valerian 160 mg and lemon balm 80 mg (Euvegal) does not cause further deterioration in reaction ability and reaction rate when taken with alcohol as compared to the effects of alcohol alone.
Alprazolam (Xanax)
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used with alprazolam. Also, valerian in high doses might modestly increase alprazolam levels, though this is not likely to be clinically significant.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might cause additive sedation when combined with alprazolam. Also, a small pharmacokinetic study shows that taking valerian extract 1000 mg daily (providing 11 mg valerenic acid) might increase alprazolam levels by about 19%. This might be due to valerian's mild inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Despite being statistically significant, this increase is not likely to be clinically significant.
Cns Depressants
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Theoretically, concomitant use of valerian and drugs with sedative and anesthetic properties may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects.
Glucuronidated Drugs
Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
In vitro research shows that methanolic valerian extract and valerenic acid might competitively inhibit UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1 (UGT1A1) and UGT2B7.
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian affects CYP2D6, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian is unlikely to affect the CYP2D6 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days did not affect the metabolism of dextromethorphan, a CYP2D6 substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of debrisoquine, an accepted CYP2D6 probe-substrate.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian extract might inhibit or induce CYP3A4, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian does not have a clinically significant effect on the CYP3A4 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of midazolam, an accepted CYP3A4 probe-substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days modestly increases levels of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 substrate, suggesting mild inhibition of CYP3A4. However, this mild inhibition is unlikely to be clinically relevant.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Valerian Root, from the product label.
Gaia Herbs
See all Gaia Herbs products- Name
- Gaia Herbs, Inc.
- Street Address
- 101 Gaia Herbs Dr.
- City
- Brevard
- State
- NC
- ZipCode
- 28712
- Web Address
- www.gaiaherbs.com
Valerian Root by Gaia Herbs: Common Questions
Does Valerian Root by Gaia Herbs interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Will valerian make me drowsy?
Can I stop taking valerian whenever I want?
Is valerian safe to use long-term?
Can I take valerian if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
What's in this product besides valerian?
Does valerian really help you sleep?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Valerian Root is safe with your meds?
Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.
Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Valerian Root’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Sources & How We Checked
Valerian Root's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.
The 37 references behind this product’s interaction data
Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.
Valerian 37 references
- Willey LB, Mady SP, Cobaugh DJ, Wax PM. Valerian overdose: a case report. Vet Hum Toxicol 1995;37:364-5.
- Kuhlmann J, Berger W, Podzuweit H, Schmidt U. The influence of valerian treatment on "reaction time, alertness and concentration" in volunteers. Pharmacopsychiatry 1999;32:235-41. PubMed
- Klepser TB, Klepser ME. Unsafe and potentially safe herbal therapies. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1999;56:125-38. PubMed
- Houghton PJ. The scientific basis for the reputed activity of Valerian. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999;51:505-12. PubMed
- Garges HP, Varia I, Doraiswamy PM. Cardiac complications and delirium associated with Valerian root withdrawal. [Letter to the Editor]. JAMA 1998;280:1566-7. PubMed
- Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000;7:273-82. PubMed
- MacGregor FB, Abernethy VE, Dahabra S, et al. Hepatotoxicity of herbal remedies. BMJ 1989;299:1156-7. PubMed
- Leathwood PD, Chauffard F. Aqueous extract of valerian reduces latency to fall asleep in man. Planta Med 1985;2:144-8. PubMed
- Hadley S, Petry JJ. Valerian. Am Fam Physician 2003;67:1755-8..
- Glass JR, Sproule BA, Herrmann N, et al. Acute pharmacological effects of temazepam, diphenhydramine, and valerian in healthy elderly subjects. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2003;23:260-8. PubMed
- Lefebvre T, Foster BC, Drouin CE, et al. In vitro activity of commercial valerian root extracts against human cytochrome P450 3A4. J Pharm Pharmaceut Sci 2004;7:265-73.
- Yuan CS, Mehendale S, Xiao Y, et al. The gamma-aminobutyric acidergic effects of valerian and valerenic acid on rat brainstem neuronal activity. Anesth Analg 2004;98:353-8. PubMed
- Donovan JL, DeVane CL, Chavin KD, et al. Multiple night-time doses of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) had minimal effects on CYP3A4 activity and no effect on CYP2D6 activity in healthy volunteers. Drug Metab Dispos 2004;32:1333-6. PubMed
- Gurley BJ, Gardner SF, Hubbard MA, et al. In vivo effects of goldenseal, kava kava, black cohosh, and valerian on human cytochrome P450 1A2, 2D6, 2E1, and 3A4/5 phenotypes. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2005;77:415-26. PubMed
- Gutierrez S, Ang-Lee MK, Walker DJ, Zacny JP. Assessing subjective and psychomotor effects of the herbal medication valerian in healthy volunteers. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2004;78:57-64. PubMed
- Jacobs BP, Bent S, Tice JA, et al. An internet-based randomized, placebo-controlled trial of kava and valerian for anxiety and insomnia. Medicine (Baltimore) 2005;84:197-207. PubMed
- National Toxicology Program, US Department of Health and Human Services. Chemical Information Review Document for Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) [CAS No. 8057-49-6] and Oils [CAS No. 8008-88-6]. Supporting Nomination for Toxicological Evaluation by t
- Fernández-San-Martín MI, Masa-Font R, Palacios-Soler L, et al. Effectiveness of Valerian on insomnia: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Sleep Med. 2010 Jun;11:505-11. PubMed
- Coxeter PD, Schluter PJ, Eastwood HL, et al. Valerian does not appear to reduce symptoms for patients with chronic insomnia in general practice using a series of randomised n-of-1 trials. Complement Ther Med. 2003 Dec;11:215-22. PubMed
- Diaper A, Hindmarch I. A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of two doses of a valerian preparation on the sleep, cognitive and psychomotor function of sleep-disturbed older adults. Phytother Res. 2004 Oct;18:831-6. PubMed
- Cuellar NG, Ratcliffe SJ. Does valerian improve sleepiness and symptom severity in people with restless legs syndrome? Altern Ther Health Med 2009;15:22-8.
- Chen D, Klesmer J, Giovanniello A, et al. Mental status changes in an alcohol abuser taking valerian and gingko biloba. Am J Addict. 2002 Winter;11:75-7. PubMed
- Albrecht M, Berger W, Laux P, Schmidt U, et al. Psychopharmaka und Verkehrssicherheit. Der Einfluß von Euvegal® - Dragees forte auf die Fahrtüchtigkeit und Kombinationswirkungen mit Alkohol Z Allg Med 1995;71:1215-25.
- Carrasco MC, Vallejo JR, Pardo-de-Santayana M, et al. Interactions of Valeriana officinalis L. and Passiflora incarnata L. in a patient treated with lorazepam. Phytother Res. 2009 Dec;23:1795-6.
- Hellum BH, Nilsen OG. The in vitro inhibitory potential of trade herbal products on human CYP2D6-mediated metabolism and the influence of ethanol. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2007 Nov;101:350-8.
- Hellum BH, Hu Z, Nilsen OG. The induction of CYP1A2, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 by six trade herbal products in cultured primary human hepatocytes. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2007 Jan;100:23-30. PubMed
- Alkharfy, K. M. and Frye, R. F. Effect of valerian, valerian/hops extracts, and valerenic acid on glucuronidation in vitro. Xenobiotica 2007;37(2):113-123.
- Vassiliadis, T., Anagnostis, P., Patsiaoura, K., Giouleme, O., Katsinelos, P., Mpoumponaris, A., and Eugenidis, N. Valeriana hepatotoxicity. Sleep Med 2009;10(8):935. PubMed
- Muller, Z., Sarkany, A., Altorjay, A., Szilagyi, A., Tura, T., and Ozsvar, Z. [Liver failure a la Eastern Europe]. Orv.Hetil. 3-22-2009;150(12):555-557. PubMed
- National Toxicology Program, US Department of Health and Human Services. Chemical Information Review Document for Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) [CAS No. 8057-49-6] and Oils [CAS No. 8008-88-6]. 2009;
- Wells SR. International intravenous administration of a crude valerian root extract. NACCT 1995;33:542.
- Aydinoglu U, Özcan H, Yücel A, Yücel N, Mutlu M. Valerian induced hypomania: a case report. Bull Clin Psychopharma 2012;22(Suppl. 1):S63.
- Mirabi P, Mojab F. The effects of valerian root on hot flashes in menopausal women. Iran J Pharm Res 2013;12(1):217-22.
- Thomas K, Canedo J, Perry PJ, et al. Effects of valerian on subjective sedation, field sobriety testing and driving simulator performance. Accid Anal Prev. 2016 Jul;92:240-4. PubMed
- Kia YH, Alexander S, Dowling D, Standish R. A case of steroid-responsive valerian-associated hepatitis. Intern Med J. 2016 Jan;46(1):118-9. PubMed
- Burke H, Jiang S, Chatham P, Stern TA. Delirium After Withdrawal From Valerian Root: A Case Report. Psychosomatics. 2020;61(6):787-790. PubMed
- Hajizadeh I, Jamshidi M, Kazemi M, Kargar H, Sadeghi T. Comparison the effect of valerian and gabapentin on RLS and sleep quality in hemodialysis patients: A randomized clinical trial. Ther Apher Dial 2023.
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DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
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