An Alternative Cause of Encephalopathy: Valerian Root Overdose

Corina Freitas; Subrat Khanal; David Landsberg; Viren Kaul

doi:10.7759/cureus.17759

An Alternative Cause of Encephalopathy: Valerian Root Overdose

Cureus. 2021 Sep 6;13(9):e17759. doi: 10.7759/cureus.17759. eCollection 2021 Sep.

Authors

Corina Freitas^{1

2}, Subrat Khanal³, David Landsberg^{4

3}, Viren Kaul^{5

3}

Affiliations

¹ Psychiatry, Crouse Health, Syracuse, USA.
² Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA.
³ Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA.
⁴ Internal Medicine/Critical Care, Crouse Health, Syracuse, USA.
⁵ Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Crouse Health, Syracuse, USA.

Abstract

The interest in alternative therapeutics use has increased over the past few decades. Valerian, also known as "plant Valium," is a popular choice as a natural remedy for insomnia or anxiety. In order to ensure patient safety, clinicians need to be knowledgeable about commonly used alternative therapeutic products, their mechanisms of action, and potential pharmacological interactions. We present an unusual case of encephalopathy due to the combination of Valerian root, a plant with putative sedating properties, along with a natural "γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) supplement." This case highlights the importance of thoroughly exploring alternative therapies when evaluating encephalopathy as well as the importance of being educated on the commonly used agents.

Keywords: autonomic nervous system dysfunction; complementary alternative medicine; delirium in icu; gaba receptors; hypnotic.

Publication types

Case Reports