Which would be more effective against insomnia, valepotriates or valerenic acids? The answer lies in your valerian tea

Abstract

Many Mexicans suffer from insomnia. Conventional sleeping pills (such as clonazepam, alprazolam, and zolpidem) can be addictive and cause daytime drowsiness, so people seek natural alternatives to treat their sleep problems. Valerian has been used for centuries to treat insomnia and anxiety. However, the effect will depend on the species consumed: valepotriates, present in Valeriana edulis, or valerenic acids, present in Valeriana officinalis. The compounds present in different species of valerian have attracted the scientific community’s interest due to their ability to avoid dependence or rebound effects. Nevertheless, many scientists are concerned about the lack of safe dosage regimens supported by sufficient evidence from clinical trials to ensure long-term safety and efficacy. Below, we explain how valerian tea can help you combat insomnia, what components the Mexican species contains, whether it is safe to take it alone or in combination with other medicinal plants, and the proper way to do so to avoid risks.