People use valerian to relieve anxiety, depression, and poor sleep, and also to ease menstrual and stomach cramps. Valerian has a mild calming effect that does not usually result in sleepiness the next day.

How much valerian root should I take for anxiety?

The recommended dose of valerian root for anxiety is 120 to 200 mg, three times per day, and the last dose should be right before bedtime. The recommended dosage for anxiety is generally lower than the dosage for insomnia because high doses of valerian root during the day can lead to daytime sleepiness.

Is valerian root like Xanax?

Anxiety. Valerian root is touted by some as a safe and natural alternative to prescription anxiety drugs, most especially those like Xanax (alprazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam), Valium (diazepam), and Ativan (lorazepam) that act on GABA receptors.