Valerian is helpful for sleep problems is inconsistent. In its 2017 clinical practice guidelines, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommended against using valerian for chronic insomnia in adults. Three small studies suggest that valerian might be helpful for menopause symptoms, but there is not enough evidence to know for certain. There’s not enough evidence to allow any conclusions about whether valerian is helpful for anxiety, depression, premenstrual syndrome, dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), stress, or other conditions.