Can pregnant women take valerian? Features of the use of valerian during pregnancy. Help with allergic reactions

In modern life, taking valerian has become the norm for many of us: stress, sleep disorders, fatigue, stomach cramps. We love this product for its naturalness, accessibility and effectiveness. It is also prescribed to many pregnant women by their leading gynecologists. And this is perhaps the only situation in which a woman thinks about the advisability and safety of taking this medication.

Is it possible to take valerian during pregnancy?

Valerian is a medicinal herb. Its extract in pharmacology is available in the form of tablets and drops. In addition, the pharmacy also sells simply dry rhizomes, from which, for example, you can prepare a decoction.

So, of all this, only tincture (drops) is not recommended for pregnant women due to the alcohol content in it. And even then, doctors say, in an emergency situation, for lack of anything else, you can use it, because you won’t drink a liter (the alcohol content in it is negligible). And sometimes drops are even preferable, since the essential oils they contain help to quickly relieve acute nervous excitement. As for the pills, they can be taken without fear at any time. This is especially true in light of the fact that many medications are prohibited for use during pregnancy, and almost all are prohibited in the first trimester.

Medical research shows that valerian does not have any negative effects on the fetus developing in the womb.

However, this does not mean at all that you can drink valerian whenever you want and in any quantities. There are specific reasons why a doctor may prescribe this drug to his pregnant patient, and certain dosages for taking it.

Why is valerian prescribed to pregnant women?

Valerian has various effects on the body, but the most pronounced of them are sedative and antispasmodic. It is for this reason that pregnant women turn to this drug. If you are nervous, tired, worried about something, can’t sleep, have a fight or are worried - valerian is your first assistant in this, because such a condition is dangerous for the unborn baby. This is most likely clear to everyone and everyone knows about it. What about the treatment course of valerian?

Valerian for the purpose of treatment is practically not prescribed to pregnant women separately, but always in combination with other drugs, because there are specific reasons for this that require not only sedation. Most often, valerian during pregnancy is prescribed in case of threat of miscarriage and in the latter case - in case of late pregnancy. Valerian helps calm the uterus and relieve tone, which usually poses an acute threat until 16-18 weeks.

Valerian has a calming effect, this effect does not occur instantly, as, for example, in sleeping pills, but lasts for a long period of time. And if you take valerian as a course, it has a certain therapeutic effect, since it tends to accumulate in the body.

How to take valerian during pregnancy: dosage?

Although valerian extract is made exclusively from natural ingredients, it should not be taken uncontrollably. The doctor prescribes a certain dosage in each individual case, as well as the duration of the course of treatment.

Typically, pregnant women are prescribed 1-2 tablets 2-3 times a day. If these are drops - 2-3 tablespoons 3-4 times a day. A self-prepared decoction of valerian rhizomes is taken 1 tablespoon 2-3 times a day. You should take the medicine half an hour after eating. Most often, treatment with valerian does not exceed a month, but in some cases there is a need to take the drug for the entire period.

If you decide to resort to taking valerian once, you still need to notify your doctor about this: all medications that you took during the gestation period must be indicated. In addition, you should discuss with him possible dosages and the advisability of taking valerian in certain life situations.

However, we would like to note once again: you should not take valerian during pregnancy unless necessary! Taking valerian in large quantities can lead to sleep disorders, nausea, heart and digestive disorders, and increased excitability.

Especially for- Elena Kichak

Despite the fact that Valerian is considered a mild drug in the public consciousness, it should be taken with caution during pregnancy. This is stated in the manufacturer's instructions. The medicine can harm even a healthy woman, because during the period of bearing a child she becomes very vulnerable. This is why you should not take pills for prevention or sedation. It is better to consult a doctor and strictly follow his recommendations.

How does valerian work?

Preparations based on valerian extract are herbal natural remedies that have a sedative and antispasmodic effect. They act mainly on the central nervous system, eliminate irritation, calm, normalize sleep. Valerian forte relieves spasms of the smooth muscles of internal organs, due to which their normal functioning is restored and reduced pain syndrome. This is important for pregnant women who suffer from increased uterine tone or are often nervous.

Medicines based on valerian are gentle. They have a cumulative effect that does not appear immediately. The drugs have a beneficial effect on blood flow, bile removal and digestion in general, and improve the functioning of the heart muscle.

The healing effect of the plant was known in ancient times; folk healers successfully used it in the treatment of ailments. Valerian rhizomes are used to make pharmaceuticals. They contain more than 200 active substances. Despite the fact that the plant has been used for a very long time, its effect on the human body has not been fully studied.

Indications for use

The main indications for taking Valerian forte are:

• emotional instability (irritability, nervousness, tearfulness);
• insomnia, frequent awakenings and other sleep disorders;
• intense headaches, migraines;
• heartburn caused by a nervous condition;
• increased uterine tone in pregnant women;
• toxicosis, gestosis;
• anxiety;
• increased heart rate due to nervous overexcitation;
• as part of complex therapy for gastrointestinal disorders (gastritis, cholecystitis).

Is it possible to take valerian during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is often accompanied by worries about the upcoming birth and the health of the unborn child. In addition, changing hormonal levels make a woman vulnerable to stress and anxiety. An unstable psycho-emotional state negatively affects the course of pregnancy, so it should be stopped immediately. For this, doctors use valerian-based drugs.

The instructions for use state that they are contraindicated in the first trimester. During this period, the formation of the baby’s main organs and systems occurs. Any exposure may adversely affect the development of the fetus. However, in exceptional cases, when the benefit outweighs the potential harm, the doctor may recommend taking Valerian even in the first months.

Valerian during pregnancy is prescribed for the following indications:

• tachycardia;
• risk of miscarriage;
• anxiety, restlessness;
• poor sleep;
• heartburn;
• early and late toxicosis;
• increased uterine tone.

The decision to prescribe any medication during pregnancy should be made only by a doctor. Even such harmless drugs should not be used independently, because they have contraindications and side effects. Before prescribing Valerian to a pregnant woman, the gynecologist will evaluate the duration of pregnancy, her state of health and concomitant diseases.

In some cases, the decision to prescribe medications will be premature. If there is no threat of miscarriage, and the expectant mother is worried for subjective reasons, her lifestyle should be analyzed. First of all, you need to follow a work-rest schedule, sleep more, and not be nervous.

A Valerian tablet can be replaced by watching your favorite movie, a walk in the fresh air, or a pleasant conversation with friends. Relatives and friends need to protect the woman from worries, physical labor and housework. A calm course of pregnancy, when nothing bothers the expectant mother, does not require prophylactic medication of this kind.

The symptoms of early toxicosis can be managed by reviewing your diet. It is necessary to exclude unhealthy foods (fried, fatty, smoked, sour foods), diversify the menu healthy products(fruits, vegetables, dairy products, eggs, low-fat varieties meat and fish). You should eat several times a day in small portions - then the symptoms of toxicosis will significantly decrease without medication.

Instructions for use and dosage

Preparations based on valerian extract are available in the form of tablets, drops and dry raw materials for brewing. Usually pregnant women are prescribed a tablet form, because the drops contain ethyl alcohol. Valerian should be used in combination with other, stronger medications.

A tincture of valerian rhizomes can sometimes be prescribed to a pregnant woman, despite the contraindication. If the condition requires emergency measures, and the tablets do not help, you can drink 15 drops of alcohol infusion once (for severe anxiety, tachycardia, abdominal cramps). This will help relieve pain and quickly calm the expectant mother. You should not abuse the drug; it is better to consult a doctor who will select safe and effective remedies.

You can also take a decoction of valerian root and brew teas with this herb. There are herbal sedatives on sale that contain this herb. Before use, you must make sure that the remaining components of the tea are indicated during pregnancy.

Valerian should be used no more than three times a day, 1 tablet. The maximum daily dose is 6 tablets. Your doctor may prescribe a larger dose if you feel it is necessary. In this case, you should rely on his recommendations, and not on the manufacturer’s instructions.

The medicine is taken half an hour before meals, washed down big amount liquids. You can drink Valerian in the evening - this will help normalize disturbed sleep. The course of treatment lasts up to a month, depending on the patient’s condition. A pronounced effect will appear only two weeks after the start of therapy.

A decoction of valerian rhizomes should be consumed as follows. Pour 3 tbsp. l. dry material with a glass of boiling water. After it has cooled completely (after 1 - 1.5 hours), you need to strain it and drink 1 tbsp. l. 2-3 times a day before or after meals.
The effectiveness of the decoction is higher than that of tablets, so its effect will be noticeable after a few hours. The safe daily volume of decoction is 1/3 cup.

How long to take the medicine and in what doses is determined only by the doctor. If the desired effect is not achieved, this should be reported to your doctor. Any ailments associated with taking Valerian should also be a reason for consultation with a specialist.

In the early stages

The main indication for prescribing Valerian is early stages pregnancy - threat of miscarriage due to increased uterine tone. The woman is prescribed bed rest. Additionally, antispasmodic drugs are prescribed (for example, No-Shpu), which will relax the muscles and relieve hypertonicity.

Valerian helps normalize sleep and lower blood pressure. Irritability and anxiety inherent in women at the beginning of pregnancy are successfully eliminated with herbal preparations. Toxicosis, expressed by nausea, vomiting, and fatigue, is also relieved by Valerian. Without these indications, the medicine should not be used prophylactically.

2nd trimester

There are significantly fewer restrictions for use in the second trimester; you can drink Valerian without fear. The baby in the womb has already formed, its organs are being improved. It is reliably protected from harmful effects by the placenta. The woman feels calmer, less nervous, and her hormonal levels have stabilized.

Preparations based on herbal raw materials are especially effective for increased uterine tone. This disorder can lead to miscarriage or premature birth, so the benefits of taking Valerian are beyond doubt. Doctors often prescribe the drug in the 2nd trimester, if indicated. Self-administration should be excluded, because the child’s nervous system is developing.

3rd trimester

The third trimester is characterized by intensive preparation of the mother and fetus for future birth. A woman often suffers from heartburn, flatulence, and signs of gestosis may appear (edema, high blood pressure). Many people note sleep disturbances; the pregnant woman cannot take a comfortable position, becomes nervous and anxious.

Valerian will help cope with excitability, nervousness, and heartburn. It will calm the woman and normalize her sleep, lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels. In addition, the herb improves digestion, and many pregnant women experience constipation during this period.

How dangerous is an overdose?

Despite the fact that Valerian is a mild herbal preparation, it can only be used in the dosage recommended by a doctor. Exceeding the dose leads to:

• headaches;
• gastrointestinal disorders (abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation);
• increased excitability, irritability;
• allergies (see also: what can you drink against allergies during pregnancy?);
• excessive drowsiness, lethargy;
• trembling of limbs;
• pupil dilation;
• tachycardia;
• hypertensive crisis;
• impairment of the organs of hearing and vision.

If these symptoms appear, you should immediately seek medical help. If the condition is alarming, you need to call an ambulance. It is extremely dangerous to treat an overdose yourself - this can lead to miscarriage or severe pregnancy complications.

If necessary, doctors will perform gastric lavage and administer activated carbon therapy. Symptomatic treatment aimed at maintaining pregnancy will be prescribed.

An allergic reaction to the drug should not go unnoticed by the doctor. Taking Valerian should be stopped immediately, because allergies are dangerous not only for the expectant mother, but also for the fetus. Subsequently, the child may react negatively to valerian extract, including severe allergic manifestations ( anaphylactic shock, Quincke's edema).

Are there any contraindications?

Contraindications for taking Valerian during pregnancy:

• allergic reaction, individual intolerance;
• liver diseases;
• enterocolitis;
• high blood pressure;
• mental disorders;
• apathy, lethargy, depression;
• pre-stroke condition.

Valerian should be taken with caution by those who suffer from hypotension, low blood pressure. The drug can reduce it even more.

Long-term use of the drug at the beginning of pregnancy can cause miscarriage, so you should not take it yourself. Like any medicine, Valerian has a number of side effects:

• allergies (rash and redness on the skin);
• dizziness;
• weakness, lethargy, drowsiness;
• inhibited reaction;
• flashing black dots before the eyes;
• constipation, diarrhea.

If these symptoms occur, you should stop taking it and visit your doctor. He will cancel the drug and replace it with another of a similar effect.

Analogues of the drug

What is best for a pregnant woman to take in a particular situation should be decided by a specialist. It is based on the duration of pregnancy and the condition of the woman at the moment.

Depending on the indications, the doctor may replace Valerian with other medications. Motherwort-based preparations are often used as a sedative. This is a medicinal herb that has a spectrum of action similar to valerian. Medicines based on it are also used for a long time and have a cumulative effect.

In addition to its antispasmodic effect, motherwort has an anticonvulsant and diuretic effect. It also has a gentle effect on the digestive tract, eliminating flatulence, nausea and heartburn. Preparations based on motherwort are available in the form of tablets, tinctures or tea for brewing (for more details, see the article: using motherwort in a tablet in early pregnancy). Others have similar properties medicinal herb– Melissa.

Based on this plant material, many sedative pharmaceuticals are produced (Persen, Novopassit). Glycine has a similar effect on the nervous system. These medications should be taken only with the permission of a doctor, because there is no reliable information regarding their effect on the fetus. In no case should you exceed the recommended dosage or increase the period of use.

Valerian – this is one of the most ancient plants that are used by humans. Its name translates as “to be healthy and strong.”

The most important is valerian root; the leaves are also medicinal, but not to the same extent. The root contains a large number of essential oils, which actively influence a person’s well-being. Thanks to these ethers, which quickly reach body and are absorbed into the blood, there is an active effect on the human body. Medicines that contain Valerian have an effect on the nervous and vascular system, bile ducts, and smooth muscles. They have an antispasmodic or sedative effect.

But also various medications that are created on the basis of valerian have a strong calming effect. In many cases, their prescribed to calm the body during overexcitation, but it is important to know that there are a number of contraindications. It is necessary to use valerian-based medicines very carefully for women who are lactation or pregnant, as well as for children who have not reached the age of ten.

In some cases, valerian root can not only have a calming effect, but in some cases it can be stimulating. The main thing is to observe the correct dosages, based on the person’s health status. Valerian for pregnant women can have a positive effect, but at the same time, in case of an overdose, it has the opposite effect.

During this difficult period, many women wonder whether they can use this remedy and whether it will cause harm. Many ladies believe that medicines made from herbal ingredients will not cause harm. But it is important to consult a doctor before taking any medications.

Many people believe that valerian root and medicine which are made on its basis, are not toxic substances and have a mild sedative effect. It is important to know that alcohol tinctures should not be taken during pregnancy, they can harm both the mother and the child, but tablets containing a large dose of valerian should also be taken with great caution.

Before you start taking sedatives medications need to be consulted talk to your doctor to see if you can start using these remedies; this could be a therapist or gynecologist, who will help determine the risks and benefits of using valerian.

The drug is prescribed during pregnancy if:

• Tachycardia, which may be associated with anxiety;
• Spasms that may occur in the gastrointestinal tract, which have a non-infectious or non-inflammatory etiology;
• Constant increase in uterine tone, which can threaten miscarriage;
• Persistent insomnia;
• Chronic irritability and nervousness.

During pregnancy, you can use valerian tablets or decoctions, which can have a positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract and normalize the secretion of bile. Valerian can also have a calming effect during manifestations, such as Braxton-Hicks contractions, which are false and can be relieved with sedatives.

Doctors believe that valerian can be used in small dosages, but it is still better to consider the option of pregnancy without the use of any drugs.

It is worth noting that an excess of valerian in the body increases a person’s nervous excitability. Also, an overdose of isovaleric acid, glycosides, alkaloids, saponins and tannins, which are contained in valerian roots, can cause harm to the human body, and especially to a pregnant woman. An overdose in this case causes conditions such as:

• Headache;
• Nausea;
• A sharp increase in blood pressure.

Instructions for use

Valerian root is often used as an independent medicine. But it is important to know that such methods are not suitable for pregnant women. The doctor must determine with which drugs it is best to combine the use of valerian, what dosage is best to choose, and much more. It is important not to take any action on your own, as this may cause unpleasant consequences.

There is some list general rules which are best performed while pregnant women are taking medications:

• Maintaining bed rest;
• Prescription by a doctor of sedatives of herbal origin in the form of decoctions, extracts or tablets;
• Carrying out antispasmodic therapy, for example taking no-shpa or other drugs similar in composition and action;
• In the case of late toxicosis, when protein in the urine increases sharply. Treatment requires the use of drugs based on valerian, motherwort and other remedies;
• Do not take alcohol tincture of valerian under any circumstances, as it is contraindicated during pregnancy.

Valerian during pregnancy in tablets

Dosage form of the drug– tablets, is a priority during pregnancy and lactation. Valerian is produced and sold in pharmacies in such compositions and products as Novopasit, Corvalment, various herbal mixtures, as well as soothing mixtures number two or three.

It is important to fully comply with the dosage prescribed by your doctor. It is important to take no more than three tablets per day. They need to be drunk half an hour before meals, every day, and most importantly, washed down with plenty of clean water.

Valerian as a tablet used in small dosages. It is usually produced in a shell that does not contain any flavoring additives. Each tablet typically contains a dosage of no more than two tenths of a gram of valerian.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, the prescription and use of valerian tablets can significantly reduce the tone of the smooth muscles of the uterus and prevent the risk of miscarriage. It is very important to save a woman from miscarriage as quickly as possible. But it is worth remembering that there is a maximum allowable dose of the drug - six tablets per day, no more. If the use of the drug does not have the desired effect, you do not need to try to increase the maximum permissible dosage on your own, but consult a doctor in a timely manner.

Valerian drops during pregnancy

This dosage form of the drug is not recommended for use while pregnant. It is contraindicated at this time, as it is being prepared for alcohol-based and may be harmful. Taking the tincture is possible only in emergency cases, if there is an urgent need to calm the woman in a short time, but there is no necessary means. Usually no more than fifteen drops per dose are allowed.

The use of valerian tincture in drops is permissible in cases where:

• We urgently need to calm down;
• There is a sharp cramp in the abdomen or colic;
• A sharp pain appears, which radiates to the right and may indicate stagnation of bile in the body;
• Severe fatigue, which can result in many days of insomnia;
• Severe tachycardia.

When the primary syndrome is relieved, it is necessary to consult a doctor for medical help. It is important to understand that you should not uncontrollably take any type of medication, even if it is of herbal origin.

Taking valerian in early pregnancy

If pregnancy is only at the beginning of development, it is necessary to take care of sedatives. This tool is used to cope with such a negative phenomenon like toxicosis. Many women, when they reach twelve weeks, experience this disease. Without taking special medications, you cannot cope with this phenomenon.

Valerian root can often appear in many herbal teas, which can have a sedative effect. They reduce the symptoms of toxicosis and help a pregnant woman cope with it as quickly as possible.

You can make your own soothing decoction:

• One spoon of crushed valerian roots;
• One glass of boiling water.

The infusion must be infused for about two hours, and then brought to a boil. After this, you need to cool the broth, and then drink one tablespoon four or five times a day, before meals.

Reviews:

I know that valerian during pregnancy is very good at helping you calm down and relax. It is important to follow the correct dosage to avoid any unpleasant consequences. Pregnancy is a difficult period and it is important to make sure that it goes as smoothly and easily as possible.

When I found out that I was pregnant, I began to wonder whether it was possible to use some special means to calm down. Many of the drugs that I read about have a slight sedative effect on the body as a whole. Many girls ask doctors if they can take valerian during pregnancy and the answer is usually positive. The main thing, I want to tell all the girls, do not use alcohol-based soothing drops.

Pregnancy is a very exciting period when the expectant mother worries about almost everything. “Is everything ready for the arrival of a new person in the house? How does it feel in your tummy? Is everything okay with him? How will the birth go? – these and other questions torment a pregnant woman every day.

The situation becomes more complicated if the pregnancy is not going well and there are any abnormalities or complications. In such a situation, it is very important to calm down and pull yourself together in time, since any nervous tension negatively affects the condition of the baby, who feels everything and reacts to the mother’s increased heartbeat. Excessive nervous tension and stressful situations can also lead to uterine contractions, which can end very badly.

For this reason, women should not hush up their experiences, and if the emotional state can no longer be controlled, it makes sense to contact the observing gynecologist to prescribe a sedative. One of the most accessible and well-known drugs today is valerian. Is it possible to drink valerian during pregnancy?

Valerian (or "cat grass") is medicinal plant, having a whole range of effects on the human body. For cooking medicinal compositions(tinctures, decoctions, etc.) use the root of this herb, since it is the rhizome that contains a lot of essential oils. Oils and tannins, when ingested, have a therapeutic effect on the nervous, cardiovascular, digestive and muscular systems.

The complex effect of the drug allows it to be used to eliminate various problems as part of complex therapy with other drugs. Valerian extract has the following medicinal properties:

• normalizes heart rhythm;
• eliminates dyspeptic symptoms (, vomiting,);
• helps improve the functioning of the stomach and gastrointestinal tract;
• has a mild choleretic effect;
• prevents stagnation of bile and bile acids in the ducts;
• helps normalize the nervous and emotional state;
• eliminates depression and mild forms of psychosis;
• helps improve appetite and restful sleep;
• relaxes smooth muscles (including the uterus).

Valerian is available in the form of yellow or Brown(10 or 50 pieces per package) and tinctures in 15 ml dropper bottles (not to be confused with the usual infusion for oral use in 25, 30 or 50 ml bottles).

Is it possible to take valerian for pregnant women?

According to experts, valerian does not contain toxic substances that could harm the baby, so it can be used at any stage of gestation if there are good reasons for this.

It should be borne in mind that the drops contain ethyl alcohol, so preference should be given to valerian in tablet form.

This is especially true in the first trimester, when the formation of the embryo and embryo occurs, since alcohol (in any quantity can) affect these important processes, and even cause birth defects and pathologies of the nervous system, blood vessels, heart and brain.

When using valerian in the form of a tincture, it is possible to obtain the opposite effect - increased anxiety, nervous excitability and attacks of hysteria (since ethanol can directly influence the brain centers).

The tablets are absolutely harmless, since they do not contain harmful chemicals, and they also contain magnesium (in the form of magnesium stearate), which enhances the sedative effect of the drug.

When prescribed: instructions for use in different trimesters

The main indications for prescribing valerian are increased anxiety, stressful situations and strong unrest. Your doctor may also prescribe valerian extract in the following cases:

• or restless short sleep;
• nervous excitability;
• attacks of hysteria;
• migraine;
• heartache;
• spasms of the stomach or uterus (mild to moderate intensity);
• intestinal dyskinesia;
• epigastric pain.

Valerian is often prescribed in the 1st trimester (in the early stages) if there is a real threat of miscarriage. The use of valerian in this case helps to relieve increased uterine tone and nervous tension, which only aggravates the situation.

It is important to note here that valerian is not used as an independent medicine - it is prescribed in combination with other medications to enhance their effectiveness.

In the 2nd and 3rd trimester, valerian tablets are prescribed to prevent uterine tone and premature birth. The drug can also be prescribed to relieve emotional arousal and for the complex treatment of any cardiovascular diseases, in particular arrhythmia, tachycardia, vegetative-vascular dystonia, etc.

How to take valerian during pregnancy: correct dosage of drops and tablets

The drug is taken orally, not associated with food intake. The dosage is 20-30 drops 3-4 times a day.

• In tablets.

Usually valerian is prescribed 1-2 tablets 3 times a day.

The dosage of the drug can be adjusted by the attending physician if there are indications for this.

The duration of use of any dosage form is 2-4 weeks, but may vary depending on the severity of the therapeutic effect.

If necessary, the course should be repeated after 1.5-2 months.

Side effects

Among side effects As a result of taking valerian, the following are noted:

• increased drowsiness;
• lethargy;
• muscle weakness;
• slowing of psychomotor reactions.

In case of severe overdose (20-fold increase in dose), bradycardia and arrhythmia were diagnosed.

People with low blood pressure should take valerian with caution. blood pressure, since the plant has hypotensive properties, and in large doses can contribute to a strong decrease in blood pressure readings.

Valerian extract enhances the effectiveness of sleeping pills, as well as sedatives and antispasmodics.

Therefore, it is necessary to inform your doctor about the use of any drugs (including vitamin complexes, since valerian tablets contain magnesium).

When should you not take it?

Contraindications for the use of valerian herb are:

• first trimester of pregnancy (use only as prescribed by a doctor is allowed);
• intolerance to the components included in the tablets or tinctures;
• glucose-galactose malabsorption.

What can be replaced?

If necessary, valerian can be replaced by one of the following drugs, which are similar in properties, composition and mechanism of action:

• "Valdispert";
• "Valerian Forte";
• "Valerianahel";
• "Valerian P";
• "Valerian Extra";
• "Sanason Lek";
• "Motherwort".

You can change the drug only after consulting a specialist!

Valerian has been used for many centuries to relieve stress in almost all groups of patients (with the exception of children under 3 years of age). When used correctly, this drug is absolutely safe for the health of mother and baby, so you don’t have to worry about the negative consequences that often occur when taking other sedatives.

But expectant mothers should still remember that the use of tincture is undesirable during pregnancy due to the ethyl alcohol content, so preference should be given to the tablet form of the medicine.

The modern pharmaceutical market is replete with sedatives, but they are not always safe for health. Therefore, on an intuitive level, we give preference to old and, in our opinion, proven drugs that have been used in the family for several generations. Surely in every home medicine cabinet there is a package of valerian - just in case. But what about taking valerian during pregnancy? This is a very delicate condition when it is worth holding off even with ordinary valerian. Therefore, in order not to harm yourself and your baby, it is better to familiarize yourself with all aspects of using this drug in advance.

During pregnancy, a woman is often overcome by anxiety of different origins. Hormonal “outbursts”, worry about the baby, fear of childbirth and stressful situations at home or at work often cause insomnia and nervous tension in people. expectant mother. Since sedatives of synthetic origin are strictly prohibited during the gestational period, doctors usually prescribe homeopathic remedies. The most accessible among them is considered to be valerian tablets during pregnancy. It has a gentle effect on a woman’s nervous system without affecting the patient’s psychological state. However, being in an “interesting” position, women should treat this drug in a special way.

Advice! An incorrectly selected dosage of valerian can have a tonic effect instead of a sedative effect.

Valerian root does not have a teratogenic effect on the fetus even in the embryonic period, so the use of valerian during early pregnancy is justified from a medical point of view. But this does not mean that you can swallow pills for any trifle without a doctor’s prescription. The question of taking it is decided only in the case of a woman’s extremely serious condition, up to the threat of miscarriage. Also, extreme caution should be taken when taking alcoholic tinctures of the plant, which are not recommended during pregnancy. But if an emergency effect on the nervous system is required after experiencing stress, then 15 drops of tincture will not cause more harm than the woman’s nervous condition. But in general, it is better to avoid any alcohol-containing drugs and drinks.

Quite often, valerian is prescribed to pregnant women who complain of sleep disturbances. Even low doses of the drug help you fall asleep faster and more soundly. Regardless of the reason for taking the pills, their dosage and duration of therapy are determined by the gynecologist individually for each woman. In this case, the possible effect of treatment is compared with the potential risk to the fetus.

If we talk about prescribing valerian during pregnancy in the 2nd trimester, then the restrictions are reduced to a minimum, but the benefits of taking it are quite high. Valerian in combination with other drugs helps relieve uterine hypertonicity (especially between 16 and 18 weeks of gestation) and stop possible premature birth.

Important! Taking valerian is unacceptable for various pathologies caused by depression of the central nervous system (depression, lethargy, apathy, etc.).

Prescribing valerian during pregnancy in the 3rd trimester significantly improves a woman’s well-being with severe degrees of gestosis, severe nervous strain and digestive problems.

Interesting! If you have been prescribed valerian during pregnancy, you will find a note in the instructions that says that taking the drug during this period is undesirable due to the lack of reliable information about the effect on the fetus. Therefore, it would be a good idea to check with your doctor about the potential dangers of taking this medication. Perhaps it will be possible to do without it.

Valerian: mechanism of action and other features of the drug

The main asset of medicinal valerian is its roots. Over the past few decades, about 200 active substances have been discovered and studied in them. But it is still unknown which of them have a therapeutic effect. But, the opinions of researchers boil down to the fact that it is the complex content of all components of valerian, led by valeric acid, that contributes to the active production of gamma-aminobutyric acid in the body, which regulates the parasympathetic nervous system. It is responsible for the distribution of energy in the body and controls the functioning of the heart and blood vessels.

Among the main components of valerian are the following:

• Essential oils.
• Resins.
• Tannins.
• Alkaloid valerine.
• Minerals (calcium, iron, aluminum, vanadium, selenium, etc.).
• Organic acids (malic, palmitic, etc.).

Valerian is used in the old fashioned way as a sedative and antispasmodic. But the range of its pharmacological properties is much wider.

Radix Valerianae minoris (this is the scientific name of valerian root) has the following effects on the human body:

1. It exhibits sedative and tranquilizing properties regarding the activity of the central nervous system.
2. Reduces heart rate activity and normalizes vascular tone.
3. Acts as an antispasmodic and choleretic agent.
4. Activates the secretion of gastrointestinal glands.
5. Eliminates convulsive conditions caused by taking analeptics (caffeine, bemegride).
6. Galenic types of valerian (tinctures, extracts) have a coronary-dilating effect, which helps lower blood pressure.

On a note! Valerian has long been used as an antiemetic, anthelmintic and detoxifying agent.

Indications for taking valerian during pregnancy

The use of valerian during pregnancy is possible with the following complications:

1. Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) associated with nervous tension.
2. Spasms in the intestines of a non-infectious and non-inflammatory nature.
3. Increased uterine tone.
4. Preeclampsia.
5. Threat of miscarriage or premature birth.
6. Excessive irritability and neurasthenia.
7. Sleep disturbance.
8. Toxicosis.
9. Toothache.
10. Hypertension.
11. In combination with cardiovascular pathologies.

Interesting! Scope of application of valerian in folk medicine much bigger. It is successfully used for chronic migraines, heart pain and menopausal disorders.

Often, women during periods of worry, for example, before a visit to the doctor or due to the appearance of any complications during pregnancy, without waiting for a doctor’s consultation, take several valerian tablets on their own to calm down. Of course, two or three tablets won’t do any harm, but they won’t do any good either. The fact is that valerian tablets, like any homeopathic remedy, require long-term use to obtain a lasting therapeutic effect.

Valerian during pregnancy: dosage and duration of therapy

During pregnancy, if necessary, valerian is prescribed in tablets or in the form of a decoction. Alcohol tinctures and complex soothing herbal mixtures containing alcohol are contraindicated.

How to drink valerian correctly:

1. Pills. Treatment begins with a minimum dosage of the drug: one tablet three times a day at least 30 minutes before meals. The tablets should only be taken with clean water. Juices, soda and other drinks completely disrupt the absorption of active ingredients. If there is no positive result, the dose is doubled. The average course of treatment is 2-3 weeks. If there are positive dynamics, the drug is discontinued.
2. Decoction. Prepare according to the instructions on the package. Reception regimen: 1-2 tbsp. l. decoction three times a day. The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor, taking into account the woman’s well-being.
3. Extract. Prepare a strong decoction of valerian at the rate of 3 tbsp. l. per 200 mg of water. The finished extract is added to a warm bath at a temperature no higher than 38⁰C. The duration of the procedure is 15-20 minutes.

On a note! How much valerian you can drink during pregnancy should only be determined by the gynecologist leading the pregnancy. Advice from friends and relatives is inappropriate in this matter.

Possible contraindications and side effects: expert commentary

Valerian during pregnancy is prescribed by a doctor only if the pregnant woman does not have the following pathologies:

• Enterocolitis.
• Depression.
• Hypertension.
• Liver diseases.
• Risk of stroke.
• Individual sensitivity to the drug.

Long-term use of valerian (more than 3 months) or exceeding the dosage stated in the annotation (more than 6 tablets per day) can provoke the following undesirable reactions:

• Dizziness.
• General weakness.
• Nausea.
• Drowsiness.
• Apathy.
• Depression.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Decline in performance.
• Allergies (urticaria, itching, hyperemia of the skin).

You can tell if you have overdosed on valerian by the following symptoms:

1. Headache.
2. Tremor of the limbs.
3. Widening of the apple of the eye.
4. Pain in the epigastric region.
5. Hearing and vision impairment.
6. Feeling of tightness in the chest.
7. Tachycardia.

If you notice symptoms of a drug overdose, seek medical advice immediately. medical care. Typically, antitoxic therapy with activated carbon and local treatment symptoms. Sometimes gastric lavage is required.

Obstetricians and gynecologists say that you can use valerian during pregnancy, but you should take into account some features:

1. Mild malaise, anxiety and irritability can be eliminated by walks in the fresh air, warm conversation with a loved one and proper rest. Such conditions do not require treatment with valerian.
2. Uncontrolled use of valerian can further worsen the condition for which the drug was prescribed.
3. Follow your doctor's instructions strictly. Intolerance or overdose of valerian can cause severe headaches, nausea and hypertensive crisis in a woman.

Important! If you notice any allergic manifestations after taking valerian, stop taking the drug immediately. The allergic condition can be passed on to the baby, and after birth he will have a high risk of developing an allergy to this drug, including anaphylactic shock.

Dosage forms of valerian

Tincture of valerian rhizomes is made on an alcohol basis. In this form, valerian has a rapid effect due to the instant transport of active elements into the blood with the help of alcohol. The daily dose of tincture (15-30 drops) does not contain any amount of alcohol harmful to the body. It is believed that once alcohol enters the bloodstream, it reaches the liver cells and is completely deactivated there. Therefore, it does not have time to reach the fetus. But this statement applies only to a single dose of the drug. Since the fetus is not protected by the placental barrier until the 16th week, it is better not to use valerian tincture during pregnancy in the 1st trimester.

A decoction of valerian is indicated when a woman has an allergic reaction to the dyes present in the tablet shell or has a history of diseases associated with lactose intolerance. The decoction has a mild and stable effect on the body, so it is prescribed for a longer period than tablets.

Valerian tablets require long-term use. To improve sleep and normalize the nervous state, you will need at least two weeks of therapy. And taking a couple of pills to calm down is a treatment with a placebo effect.

Despite the harmlessness of valerian, you should not self-prescribe a sedative during pregnancy. Minor stress or poor health is best eliminated more useful methods, for example, take a contrast shower or take a walk in the park. But if a gynecologist prescribed valerian to you, then there is definitely a reason for this. In this case, strictly adhere to the dosage regimen.

Video “How to relieve stress. Valerian."