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Herb & Botanical

Valerian Root Extract

01 / OVERVIEW

What this compound does

WHAT IT DOES

Valerian root extract is a natural supplement that may help improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety. It works by influencing certain brain chemicals that help calm the mind and promote relaxation. Many people use it to feel more at ease and to support better sleep patterns.

KEY BENEFITS
May improve sleep quality
Can help reduce anxiety
Supports relaxation and calmness
May enhance overall mood
BEST FOR
  • • Individuals struggling with insomnia
  • • People experiencing stress and anxiety
  • • Those seeking natural sleep aids
WHAT TO EXPECT

Users may start to feel the calming effects within 30 minutes to an hour after taking valerian root extract. It may help promote a sense of relaxation and improve sleep quality over time.

WHO SHOULD AVOID THIS
  • • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • • Individuals with liver disorders
  • • People taking sedatives or tranquilizers
MYTHS & FACTS
Myth: Valerian root is a strong sedative like prescription medications.
Fact: While valerian root may promote relaxation, its effects are generally milder than those of prescription sedatives, and individual responses can vary significantly.
Myth: All herbal supplements are completely safe.
Fact: Herbal supplements can interact with medications and may not be safe for everyone, particularly those with certain health conditions.
At a glance
Typical dose
300-600 mg/night
Evidence
—
Studies indexed2
How it's made

Production details below.

03 / DOSAGE

How much, when

MAINTENANCE

300-600 mg/night

30-60min before bed

TIMING

Valerian Root Extract — Bedtime dose

Standard dosing.

⚠ May cause drowsiness — ideal for bedtime.
02 / EVIDENCE

Peer-reviewed studies

  • PMID: 16520197

    Sleep onset

    Meta-analysis showed valerian improved sleep quality and reduced sleep latency.

    B
  • PMID: 12535473

    Anxiety

    Some evidence for mild anxiolytic effect, though study quality variable.

    C
  • PMID 16335333 · 2005RCT

    Valerian-hops combination and diphenhydramine for treating insomnia: a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial

    B
  • PMID 28278010 · 2018RCT

    The effect of Valerian on the severity and frequency of hot flashes: A triple-blind randomized clinical trial

    B
  • PMID 39064758 · 2024Systematic Review

    Effects of Dietary Supplementation in Patients with Restless Legs Syndrome: A Systematic Review

    B
  • PMID 26847981 · 2016Narrative Review

    Alternative treatment of restless legs syndrome: an overview of the evidence for mind-body interventions, lifestyle interventions, and neutraceuticals

    B
04 / INTERACTIONS

Medicine interactions

  • SSRIs· SSRI

    Valerian root may enhance serotonin levels, potentially leading to serotonin syndrome when combined with SSRIs.

    → Monitor for symptoms of serotonin syndrome; consult a healthcare provider.

    MODERATE

  • Antidepressants· antidepressant

    May enhance sedative effects of antidepressants, increasing drowsiness.

    → Use caution and consult a healthcare provider.

    MODERATE

  • Warfarin· blood_thinner

    Valerian may affect liver enzymes that metabolize warfarin, potentially altering its effectiveness.

    → Consult a healthcare provider for monitoring if using both.

    LOW

This page is a reference summary, not a prescription. Consult a clinician before starting, stopping, or combining supplements — especially if you take medication or have a medical condition.