Valerian is an herbal treatment that is used in assisting with sleep and is a plant in which the root is used, and has a strong unpleasant odor. This odor is caused by isovaleric acid in the roots of the plant, and there are few side effects associated with, only when taken in high dosages. These side effects that can be present when taking Valerian in high dosages are dizziness, headache and nausea.

There have been studies done on valerian that have shown it to be effective as a sleep aid and to be safe. People with sleep disorders that take the herbal remedy usually will feel less anxious, nervous and sleep better at night.

There are none of the usual side effects associated with valerian that there are with prescription medications and even when taken as a long term sleep aid, there is not the common sleep aid withdrawal.