PRIMARY FUNCTION
Natural calming agent for anxiety relief, stress reduction, and sleep support.
HOW IT SUPPORTS PET HEALTH
Valerian root extract is derived from *Valeriana officinalis*, a flowering plant known for its calming and mild sedative properties. It supports pet health by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety-related behaviors, and improving sleep quality. Valerian root works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activity in the brain, which helps regulate nerve transmissions and induces a calming effect. This makes it particularly beneficial for dogs and cats experiencing stress or anxiety due to separation, loud noises, or unfamiliar environments.
FUNCTIONAL OVERVIEW
Valerian root contains active compounds such as valerenic acid, valepotriates, and isovaleric acid that interact with GABA receptors in the brain to promote calmness. These compounds help reduce excitability in the central nervous system while supporting emotional balance. Additionally, valerian’s neuroprotective effects make it suitable for pets with chronic stress or sleep disturbances.
COMMON VETERINARY USES
Species Studied
- Dogs
- Cats
Primary Benefits for Pets
- Anxiety Relief: Reduces acute stress responses and chronic anxiety.
- Sleep Support: Promotes restful sleep without excessive sedation.
- Nervous System Protection: Provides antioxidant protection to neural tissues.
- Behavioral Support: Helps manage hyperactivity and restlessness.
Veterinary Use Cases
- Easing separation anxiety or noise phobias in dogs.
- Supporting calmness during veterinary visits or travel.
- Reducing stress-related behaviors in cats, such as excessive vocalization or agitation.
- Promoting relaxation in pets with disturbed sleep patterns.
CONTRAINDICATIONS & SENSITIVITIES
Valerian root is generally safe when used at appropriate doses. However, it should be avoided in pregnant pets due to potential uterine stimulant effects. Use cautiously in pets taking sedatives or other medications that affect the central nervous system, as interactions may occur. Rare side effects include mild dizziness or digestive upset. Always consult your veterinarian before use.
INGREDIENT SOURCING & QUALITY STANDARDS
Valerian root extract used in ThorneVet products is sourced from *Valeriana officinalis*, ensuring purity and efficacy. The extract is standardized to valerenic acid content for consistent results and undergoes rigorous testing for contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals. This guarantees safety and reliability for your pet’s health.
RESEARCH AT A GLANCE
- Anxiety Relief in Dogs: Valerian root has been shown to reduce anxiety-related behaviors in dogs during stressful events like thunderstorms and fireworks by boosting GABA activity in the brain. URL: https://www.petmd.com/dog/wellness/valerian-root-dogs-does-it-work
- Anxiolytic Effects on Animals: Research demonstrates that *Valeriana officinalis* extract modulates neurotransmitter activity, including GABA currents in hippocampal neurons, showing promise as a natural sedative agent for controlling anxiety across species. URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20042323/
- Sedative Properties Across Species: Valerian root’s compounds contribute to its sedative effects by modulating neurotransmitter activity, aiding relaxation in animals. URL: https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/valerian
TRADITIONAL APPLICATIONS
Historically, valerian root has been used as a calming remedy since ancient Greece and Rome. It was traditionally employed to treat insomnia, anxiety, and nervous restlessness in humans. Modern veterinary applications have adapted these uses for pets, focusing on its anxiolytic properties for stress relief.
DISCLAIMER
This ingredient overview is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new supplements or making changes to your pet’s healthcare regimen.
