Many women have trouble sleeping during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and emotional stress often lead to restless nights. While prenatal vitamins like folic acid and iron are a must, most pregnant women are cautious about taking extra medications, especially for insomnia. This has led many to look for natural solutions, including herbal remedies. One popular option is valerian root during pregnancy. Known for its calming effects, valerian is often used to relieve anxiety and help with sleep. Because it’s “natural,” some see it as a safer alternative to prescription sleep aids. But is valerian root safe during pregnancy?
Can valerian root cause miscarriage or harm the baby’s development? It is a common concern among pregnant women. Unfortunately, research on its safety during pregnancy is limited. That’s why it’s important to understand the risks before using it. In this blog, we’ll break down what valerian root is, the possible dangers during pregnancy, and safer ways to get the sleep you need—naturally.
What is Valerian Root?
The valerian plant grows for two years or even more. Thus, this herb is perennial, and the root of the plant is widely used as medicine. It helps cure sleep disorders and alleviate nervousness, stomachaches, anxiety, fatigue, etc.
There are over 200 types of valerian plants. However, there is only one type that is used for medicines. Its stems—both underground and horizontal—can be used as a component for the preparation of herbal merchandise.
This root comes in powder form or even as a tincture. It is widely consumed as a tea and is also used along with other herbs such as lemon balm etc.
About The Safety Of Valerian Root During Pregnancy
In case one has conceived, it is advisable not to consume valerian root. As per studies, the effect of using valerian root on the baby’s and the mother’s health is still not known. So, it is better to have a doctor’s recommendation in case one wishes to use the root during pregnancy.
Some safety points while using the valerian root during pregnancy are
- Few studies and research have indicated that using valerian root during pregnancy has been known to lower the zinc level in the brain of the baby. (1)
- Valerian root is famous for easing the problem of sleep, but sleepiness is not a good sign. It can contribute to falling and harming the baby.
- If one has received clearance from the doctor regarding its use, it is advisable to exercise caution when engaging in certain activities afterward, such as driving.
Benefits of Using Valerian Roots During Pregnancy
Valerian root contains a lot of powerful bioactive compounds that have a relaxing, sleep-promoting, and anti-inflammatory effect. It is also beneficial for a healthy heart.
Thus, the valerian root is used as a cure for depression, sleep disorders, fatigue, lethargy, healthy functioning of the heart, etc. It even has some anti-inflammatory compounds and therefore offers many other benefits.
Let us have a look at some of them below:
- The usage of valerian root is known to work as a cure for people suffering from insomnia or sleep apnea or who cannot have a deep sleep.
- Consumption of valerian root helps to combat stress, as it contains magnesium that enhances the mood.
- Valerian root may also help increase concentration and learning.
Side Effects of Valerian Root During Pregnancy
Using the valerian root is generally safe. Intake of this root in limited quantities does not cause harm in the majority of cases. Yet all sorts of herbal cures do have side effects. Most of the side effects are drowsiness, giddiness, impatience, headache, and gastric disorders. (2)
The other side effects are
- The usage of valerian root can interact with some sedatives or depressants.
- It can even react with antidepressants.
- It can react with cholesterol levels and liver enzymes.
- It can interfere with giving anesthesia, leading to several surgical difficulties.
- Using valerian root during pregnancy can lessen the impact of all sorts of dietary add-ons.
Is it Safe to Drink Valerian Tea During Pregnancy?
Drinking herbal tea during pregnancy has its benefits. But remember not to drink it continually throughout the pregnancy. Also,
- Don’t have more than one cup a day.
- Never take it longer than six weeks at a time.
Herbal Remedies for Pregnant Women
It is common to use herbal remedies during pregnancy in many cultures. Few remedies work for one, and others might not.
While some of the herbal products can cause side effects, others could work by providing relief. However, no adequate data or records are accessible for the effect of the use of herbal products during pregnancy.
Safety Issues
Research indicates that moderate amounts of valerian root are generally safe during pregnancy (3). However, it is advisable to consume it only after consulting a doctor.
Some of the safety concerns of eating valerian root during pregnancy are:
- It is important to find out if the herbal remedy is safe for both the mother as well as the unborn baby.
- It is best to have a good idea regarding its benefits and the side effects as well.
- Use herbs with proper care and attention, as improper use of herbs can also lead to premature births, miscarriages, etc.
- It is good to remember that safe herbs can be unsafe in pregnancy.
It is important to understand that while valerian root can help alleviate sleep issues, restlessness, and anxiety, it is advisable to avoid using it during pregnancy. Additionally, those trying to conceive or currently breastfeeding should also refrain from consuming valerian root.
FAQ’s
1. Can Valerian Root Cure my Pregnancy Insomnia?
We are not sure. Valerian root is not safe during pregnancy. So, if your doctor prescribes it, clear all your doubts and start the medication.
2. Can Consuming Valerian Root During Pregnancy Harm My Baby?
Yes, it can. Some believe it can reduce the zinc in your body. This can affect the baby’s brain.
3. Can Consuming Valerian Root During Pregnancy Keep Away Postpartum Depression?
No there is no research to prove this. Many believe that the valerian root is not safe for pregnant women. Consuming something in advance can’t keep depression away.
4. How Much Valerian Can I Have When Pregnant?
If you must consume valerian root, consult your doctor first. So not have too much of this root. It can be dangerous.
Read Also: Chamomile Tea For Babies: Benefits, Dosage, And Side Effects
Reference
- Mahmoudian, Alireza & Rajaei, Ziba & Haghir, Hossein & Banihashemian, Shahaboldin & Hami, Javad. (2012). Effects of valerian consumption during pregnancy on cortical volume and the levels of zinc and copper in the brain tissue of the mouse fetus. Zhong xi yi jie he xue bao = Journal of Chinese integrative medicine. 10. 424-9 – https://www.researchgate.net/publication/224034547
- National Center For Complementary And Integrative Health – https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/valerian
- Mei Yao, Helen E. Ritchie, Patricia D. Brown-Woodman, A developmental toxicity-screening test of valerian, Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 113, Issue 2, 2007, Pages 204-209 – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874107002759
