People are using natural botanicals in the pursuit of enhanced relaxation and sleep support. Different herbs and their combinations are known to provide effective sleep support, such as kratom and valerian. Both are known for their sedative properties, but they work through different pathways in the body.
In this article, we will explore what valerian is, analyse the potential interaction between valerian and kratom, and provide you with important safety considerations for anyone thinking about combining them.
What is Kratom?
Kratom originates in Southeast Asia, mainly in Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. It is traditionally used for pain relief, energy boost, and opioid withdrawal. It is used in different forms such as powder, capsules, tablets, and extracts. Kratom is psychoactive and binds with opioid receptors in the brain.
What is Valerian?
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is nature’s sedative, a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. People have been using it for centuries as a natural remedy, mainly for sleep disorders and anxiety. Valerian is often called “nature’s Valium” due to its calming effects; it is not chemically related to the pharmaceutical drug.
Valerian root is believed to work by increasing the amount of the neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA has a calming effect that quiets the racing mind, reduces neuronal excitability, and promotes relaxation and sleep.
Valerian and Kratom: A Comparison of Effects
Apparently, both valerian and kratom have similar goals, promoting relief and calm, however achieve this through a distinct mechanism, which is necessary to understand before combining them.
Kratom: The effects of kratom are dose-dependent. At higher doses with strong strains such as red vein, its alkaloids produce sedation and relaxation by interacting with opioid receptors in the brain.
Valerian: It works primarily via the GABAergic system to induce calm and drowsiness. Both kratom and valerian root may lead to sedation, as they are putting pressure on two different neurological systems simultaneously.
Potential Risks of Mixing Kratom and Valerian
Combining two sedative substances can cause multiple side effects and risks. The primary concern is additive sedation.
- Excessive Drowsiness and Impaired Function:
Mixing valerian and kratom can cause stronger effects and lead to extreme sleepiness, severe brain fog, and significantly impaired cognitive and motor skills. It is not safe to drive or operate heavy machinery after consuming a mix of kratom and valerian root. The combined effect is stronger than consuming either substance alone.
- Respiratory Depression (Theoretical Risk):
Kratom and valerian root, when mixed together, can have a depressant effect on the nervous system. Combining CNS depressants increases the theoretical risk of slowed breathing. The risk is heightened if mixed with other depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or prescription opioids.
- Unpredictable Side Effects:
The body chemistry of every individual is different, and combining two active botanicals can lead to unpredictable side effects like intense dizziness, migraine, nausea, or confusion.
- Increased Burden on the Liver:
Both botanicals are metabolised by the liver; consuming them together could place more stress on the liver’s detoxification pathways. For individuals with pre-existing liver conditions, this combination causes more harm.
How to Mix Kratom and Valerian (If You Proceed with Caution)
After understanding all the risks, if you are still trying a combination of kratom and valerian root, the safest approach involves extreme caution and minimal dosing.
Critical Safety Rules:
- Must consult with your doctor before trying a mixture of kratom and valerian root if you have any health conditions or are consuming any other medications.
- If you are consuming any of the botanicals for the first time, do not try a combination before analysing your individual reaction to both kratom and valerian root separately.
- The combination should only be consumed in the evening when you have no responsibilities and can safely go to bed. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery after consuming kratom and valerian root together.
- Must consume a very low dose and wait at least 60 to 90 minutes to feel its full effects.
- It’s advisable to have someone with you who is not under the influence, especially the first time you try the combination.