Valerian Root and Heart Attack: Understanding the Risks and Side Effects

Valerian root is a widely used herbal supplement primarily taken to improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety. While generally considered safe, some users have reported concerning cardiovascular symptoms, including heart palpitations, which has led to questions about whether valerian root could be linked to heart attack risk.

Understanding the potential cardiovascular effects of valerian root is crucial for anyone considering this herbal supplement, especially those with existing heart conditions or risk factors. This article examines the relationship between valerian root and heart health, including documented side effects and safety considerations.

What Is Valerian Root?

Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) is an herbal supplement derived from a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. For centuries, it has been used in traditional medicine to promote relaxation, improve sleep, and ease anxiety.

The supplement is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, and teas. Valerian root is believed to work by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, a neurotransmitter that produces calming effects on the nervous system.

Despite its popularity, valerian root is classified as a dietary supplement in the United States and is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with the same rigor as prescription medications. This means that quality, purity, and potency can vary between brands.

Can Valerian Root Cause Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations are one of the reported side effects associated with valerian root use, particularly at higher doses. Heart palpitations are sensations that feel like your heart is pounding, fluttering, or beating irregularly.

Research indicates that high doses of valerian root may produce changes in heart rate. While palpitations are typically harmless, they can be unsettling and cause anxiety, especially for people who have not experienced them before.

The mechanism behind valerian-induced palpitations is not fully understood, but it may be related to the herb’s effects on the central nervous system and its interaction with various neurotransmitters. Individual sensitivity varies considerably, with some people experiencing palpitations at relatively low doses while others tolerate higher amounts without issue.

If you experience heart palpitations after taking valerian root, it’s advisable to reduce your dosage or discontinue use and consult with a healthcare provider.

Valerian Root and Heart Attack Risk: What Does the Evidence Say?

Currently, there is no direct scientific evidence linking valerian root consumption to an increased risk of heart attack in healthy individuals. Heart palpitations, while uncomfortable, do not typically indicate an imminent heart attack.

However, certain situations warrant caution:

• Pre-existing heart conditions: Individuals with cardiovascular disease, arrhythmias, or other heart-related conditions should exercise caution when considering valerian root and consult their healthcare provider before use.
• Drug interactions: Valerian root may interact with cardiovascular medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or causing unwanted effects.
• High doses: Excessive intake of valerian root may increase the likelihood of experiencing cardiovascular symptoms, including palpitations and changes in blood pressure.
• Combined with other substances: Taking valerian root alongside other sedatives, alcohol, or certain medications may compound effects on the cardiovascular system.

It’s important to distinguish between heart palpitations and symptoms of a heart attack. Warning signs of a heart attack include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, pain in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, cold sweats, nausea, and lightheadedness. If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Other Potential Side Effects of Valerian Root

Beyond cardiovascular concerns, valerian root has been associated with several other side effects, particularly when taken in high doses or over extended periods:

Vivid Dreams and Nightmares

Many users report experiencing unusually vivid or strange dreams after taking valerian root. This effect is likely related to the herb’s sedative properties, which may deepen sleep patterns and enhance dream recall. For some individuals, these vivid dreams can manifest as nightmares, making valerian unsuitable for those prone to sleep disturbances.

Digestive Issues

Gastrointestinal side effects are relatively common with valerian root use. These may include:

• Nausea
• Stomach upset
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramping

Dry Mouth

Some users experience dry mouth after taking valerian root, though this side effect has not been extensively studied in clinical research.

Headaches

Ironically, while valerian root has historically been used to relieve headaches, some research has found that it may actually trigger headaches in certain individuals, particularly with long-term or high-dose use.

Morning Grogginess

Due to its sedative effects, some people report feeling sluggish or drowsy the morning after taking valerian root, especially at higher doses. This “hangover effect” can impair cognitive function and alertness.

Mood Changes

Changes in mood, including excitability, uneasiness, or restlessness, have been reported by some users, particularly with prolonged use.

Drug Interactions and Precautions

Valerian root can interact with various medications and substances, which may increase the risk of adverse effects or reduce the effectiveness of prescribed treatments.

Medications and Substances That May Interact With Valerian Root:

• Sedatives and sleep aids: Combining valerian with benzodiazepines, prescription sleep medications, or anticonvulsants may cause excessive drowsiness.
• Antidepressants: Valerian may interact with antidepressant medications, potentially affecting their efficacy.
• Alcohol: Using valerian root with alcohol can amplify sedative effects and impair cognitive and motor function.
• Antihistamines: Over-the-counter allergy medications with sedating properties may have enhanced effects when combined with valerian.
• Cholesterol medications (statins): Some evidence suggests potential interactions between valerian and statin drugs.
• Antifungal medications: Certain antifungal drugs may interact with valerian root.
• Narcotic pain medications: The sedative effects of valerian may be intensified when combined with opioid painkillers.
• Other herbal supplements: Combining valerian with other sedating herbs, such as St. John’s wort, kava, or passionflower, may increase the risk of side effects.

Who Should Avoid Valerian Root?

Certain populations should exercise particular caution or avoid valerian root entirely:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Due to insufficient safety data, valerian root is not recommended during pregnancy or while nursing.
• Young children: Safety and appropriate dosing for children have not been adequately established.
• People with liver conditions: A small number of cases have linked valerian root to mild to moderate liver damage, though causation has not been definitively established.
• Individuals scheduled for surgery: Because valerian affects the central nervous system, it should be discontinued at least two weeks before scheduled surgery to avoid interactions with anesthesia.
• Those with heart conditions: People with cardiovascular disease or arrhythmias should consult their healthcare provider before using valerian root.

Safe Usage Guidelines for Valerian Root

If you’re considering valerian root as a natural sleep aid or anxiety remedy, following these guidelines can help minimize the risk of side effects:

Dosage Recommendations

Research on optimal valerian root dosing is limited and inconsistent. Generally recommended doses for sleep issues range from 300 to 600 milligrams, taken 30 minutes to two hours before bedtime.

Start with the lowest effective dose and increase gradually only if needed. Higher doses are associated with increased risk of side effects, including heart palpitations.

Quality Considerations

Because dietary supplements are not strictly regulated, quality can vary significantly between products. Look for valerian root supplements that have been independently tested for purity and potency by third-party organizations such as NSF International, USP (United States Pharmacopeia), or ConsumerLab.

Timing and Duration

Valerian root is typically used on a short-term basis. Long-term safety data is limited, and some side effects appear to be more common with extended use. If you don’t notice improvement in your symptoms after a few weeks, consult with a healthcare provider rather than continuing indefinitely.

Monitoring for Side Effects

Pay attention to how your body responds to valerian root. Keep track of any side effects, including cardiovascular symptoms like palpitations, changes in heart rate, or chest discomfort. If you experience concerning symptoms, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Professional Guidance

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting valerian root, especially if you:

• Take prescription medications
• Have any chronic health conditions
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a history of liver disease
• Have cardiovascular concerns

Your doctor can help assess whether valerian root is appropriate for your situation and advise on proper dosing based on your individual health profile.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most side effects of valerian root are mild and resolve on their own, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:

• Severe or persistent heart palpitations
• Chest pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness)
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (possible liver issue)
• Severe abdominal pain

Remember that valerian root is a supplement, not a replacement for professional medical care or prescribed medications. If you have a sleep disorder, anxiety condition, or other health concern, work with your healthcare provider to develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Conclusion

While there is no direct evidence linking valerian root to heart attack risk in healthy individuals, the supplement can cause heart palpitations and other cardiovascular symptoms, particularly at higher doses. These effects, though typically benign, can be concerning and may pose greater risks for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.

Valerian root may be effective for some people seeking natural sleep support, but it’s not without potential side effects. Beyond cardiovascular concerns, users may experience vivid dreams, digestive upset, headaches, and morning grogginess.

If you’re considering valerian root, consult with a healthcare provider first, especially if you take medications or have health conditions. Choose high-quality products from reputable manufacturers, start with the lowest effective dose, and monitor your body’s response carefully.

When it comes to herbal supplements, natural doesn’t always mean risk-free. An informed, cautious approach—guided by professional medical advice—is the safest way to incorporate valerian root or any supplement into your wellness routine.

Sources:

• National Institutes of Health – PubMed Central: Valerian for Sleep Quality
• National Institutes of Health – PubMed Central: GABA and Sleep Mechanisms
• NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Valerian Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
• National Center for Biotechnology Information: Valerian Safety Profile
• ScienceDirect: Valerian Root Cardiovascular Effects
• American Academy of Family Physicians: Herbal and Dietary Supplements for Sleep
• NSF International: Certified Products and Systems
• ConsumerLab: Quality Certification Program