Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has a long history of use as a traditional herbal remedy for sleep disorders and anxiety, but its use for Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is largely based on anecdotal or traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation. Historically, valerian root has been used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, which indirectly addresses some symptoms experienced by people with RLS, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep due to leg discomfort. Scientific studies specifically evaluating valerian for RLS are very limited. A small pilot study published in 2009 (Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) suggested that valerian may improve sleep quality and decrease symptom severity in people with RLS, but the sample size was small and the study design limited the strength of its conclusions. Most systematic reviews and clinical guidelines do not recommend valerian as a primary or evidence-based treatment for RLS, due to the lack of rigorous clinical trials. In summary, while valerian is traditionally used to support sleep and relaxation—which may be helpful for some RLS sufferers—the direct evidence supporting its effectiveness for RLS specifically remains weak. Its use for this condition is best described as traditional, with minimal scientific backing at this time.

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