Experts are certain that it is effective but are less sure of exactly how it works. Many scientists believe it elevates levels of a chemical is known as GABA or gamma-aminobutyric acid.

GABA regulates the nerve cells and benefits those with nervous conditions by calming anxiety.

Popular pharmaceutical anxiety drugs like Xanax and valium work in exactly the same way by increasing GABA levels within the brain though valerian offers a weaker yet more natural and less addictive remedy.