I know of a couple of people who have tried Valerian Root.  I, personally,
would not use it OR Ginki Biloba.  This is some information on Valerian
Root:
VALERIAN ROOT Drug Information

     Drug Name: VALERIAN ROOT

     VALERIAN ROOT DESCRIPTION:
     VALERIAN (Valeriana officinalis) - ORAL

     VALERIAN ROOT SIDE EFFECTS:
     Headache, blurred vision, nausea, change in heartbeat, and morning
grogginess may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact
your doctor promptly. Very unlikely but report: dark urine, stomach pain. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.

     HOW TO USE VALERIAN ROOT:
     THIS PRODUCT: Take by mouth, generally 30 to 60 minutes before
bedtime. This product should not be taken for more than 2 weeks. Follow all
directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the
information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. If your condition persists
or worsens or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek
immediate medical attention.

     VALERIAN ROOT USES:
     Valerian root has been used to treat anxiety, restlessness and
sleeping problems (insomnia). The FDA has not reviewed this product for
safety or effectiveness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

     VALERIAN ROOT PRECAUTIONS:
     If you have liver problems, consult your doctor before using this
product. Limit alcohol intake, as it may aggravate the effects of this
product. Caution is advised when performing tasks requiring alertness (e.g.,
driving). Liquid preparations of this product may contain sugar and/or
alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence or
liver disease. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of this
product. This product is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult
your doctor before using this product. Because of the potential risk to the
infant, breast-feeding while using this product is not recommended. Consult
your doctor before breast-feeding.

     VALERIAN ROOT DRUG INTERACTIONS:
     Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all
prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, especially of
drugs causing drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep, sedatives,
tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers
(e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines, anti-seizure drugs, muscle relaxants
and antihistamines that cause drowsiness (e.g., diphenhydramine). Check all
nonprescription medicine labels carefully, especially cough-and-cold
preparations, since many contain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine).
Consult your pharmacist if you are uncertain.

     VALERIAN ROOT OVERDOSE:
     If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or
emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include weak heartbeat,
lightheadedness, blurred vision, stomach cramping, chest tightness, hand
tremor, and paralysis.

     VALERIAN ROOT NOTES:
     Liver function tests should be performed with prolonged use of this
herbal product.

     MISSED VALERIAN ROOT DOSE:
     Not applicable.

     VALERIAN ROOT STORAGE:
     Refer to storage information printed on the package. If you have any
questions about storage, ask your pharmacist.

I've used the combination of valerian and melatonin (3 mg) with good
success.  I think it's a
good alternative to the prescription meds and view valerian as being
safe and non-addicting. I have
not experienced any side effects  as I did with some of the prescribed
meds that I tried.

frank