Sleep & stress5 min
Tagar (Indian Valerian) for Sleep: What to Know
Tagar is an Ayurvedic root used for sleep. What research on valerian shows, how it is taken, and the important safety points.
Important: this remedy is only a supportive home measure. Keep taking any medicine your doctor has prescribed, monitor your readings, and consult your doctor before adding anything new.
Tagar in everyday Indian homes
Tagar (Indian valerian) is a root with a strong, earthy smell, used in Ayurveda for sleep. Evidence for valerian is mixed, and it can cause morning grogginess.
Tagar (Valeriana wallichii) is the Indian cousin of European valerian, one of the most studied sleep herbs. Results are mixed: some people fall asleep a little faster, others notice nothing. It works best alongside good sleep habits, not instead of them.
Ingredients
- Tagar powder or tablets from a licensed pharmacy
- Warm water
How to prepare
- Ask your doctor, especially if you take any medicine for sleep, anxiety, epilepsy or pain.
- Use the lowest labelled dose.
How to use
- Take 30 to 60 minutes before bed for up to two to four weeks.
- Do not drive or operate machinery if drowsy.
Helpful habits
- Stop if you feel heavy-headed in the morning.
Precautions
- Stop if you have headaches, stomach upset or morning heaviness.
- Do not combine with alcohol, sleeping pills or anxiety medicine.
- Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding and before driving.
- Traditional use; scientific evidence is limited. Do not stop prescribed medicine.
Frequently asked questions
Does tagar smell bad?
- Yes, like most valerian roots it has a strong, earthy smell.
Is it safe for older people?
- They are more sensitive to drowsiness and falls; a doctor should advise.
Is tagar habit-forming?
- It is not known to be, but long-term use has not been well studied.
