Valerian is an herb. It mainly grows in Europe and parts of Asia, but also grows in North America. The drug is made from the root. Valerian is most often used for sleep disorders, especially the inability to sleep (insomnia). Valerian is also used orally for anxiety and psychological stress, but scientific research is limited to support these uses. In manufacturing, valerian extracts and oils are used as flavorings in food and beverages.
Why Valerian? Its benefits also include treating anxiety, stress, depression, attention deficit disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome, tremor, epilepsy, symptoms of menopause, and other conditions.
This is why valerian root is used as a biohacking supplement, and these are the Best Valerian Root Supplements that we recommend:
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Valerian (Valeriana officinalis, Caprifoliaceae) is a perennial flowering plant that is native to Europe and Asia. In summer, when the mature plant can be 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall, it has slightly scented pink or white flowers that attract many species of flies, especially flies of the genus Eristalis. It is also consumed as food by the larvae of certain species of lepidoptera (butterflies), including the gray pug.
Raw valerian root extract can have sedative and anxiolytic effects, and is commonly sold in supplement capsules to promote sleep. But the supplements in our list can also provide you with many of these benefits. Let’s have a look!
Nature’s Way Valerian Root
Why we picked it: Thu-ID certified, vegetarian
This is a top-notch valerian root supplement. Nature’s Way uses whole valerian root in in powder form in this product, which is as natural as possible. These valerian root pills are vegetarian and contain no artificial additives, gluten, corn, starch, sugar, wheat, dairy or yeast. You can not go wrong with Nature’s Way valerian root. This Valerian supplement is affordable and will surely give you all the benefits of Valerian root.
Highlight:
- Natural herbal supplement
- Vegetarian
- Non-GMO
- Traditional sleep aid
- Tru-ID Certified
- 1.59g valerian root per serving
- Gluten, sugar, dairy, egg, soy, and corn-free
Who Makes It:
Nature’s Way is a renowned manufacturer of high-end dietary supplements. The company was founded in 1968 by Tom Murdock, and it has grown into a manufacturer of quality science and mindset supplements. They only use the best ingredients and also incorporates greate quality control measures. Nature’s Way is one of the first manufacturers who implemented Tru-ID verification, which ensures that the information on the label of the product is accurate and authentic.
Pros:
- Vegetarian
- Natural herbal supplement
- Traditional sleep aid
- Artificial colors, flavors or preservatives free
Cons:
- Does not smell good.
NOW Foods Valerian Root
Why we picked it: Natural herbal supplement, GMP certified
NOW Valerian Root comes in a form of vegetable capsules which contain a hypoallergenic and powerful formulation. Now Foods Valerian Root is not a GMO and is produced in a GMP certified factory. They are now a reputable manufacturer; you can be sure that your products have passed rigorous tests and are free from harmful substances. The dose of valerian root in this product is correct and the price is affordable.
Highlights:
- Natural herbal supplement
- Affordable
- Vegan/vegetarian
- Non-GMO
- GMP certified facility
- 1g valerian root per serving
- sugar, Gluten, soy, nut, dairy, egg, and corn-free
- NPA A-rated GMP certification which means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined
- 500 mg, Herbal Supplement, 250 Veg Capsules
Who Makes It:
NOW is a very popular manufacturer of dietary supplements. Founded in Illinois in 1968, NOW has maintained a family and quality business model. NOW Foods is and always has been committed to providing consumers with premium products that help them maintain their health. True to their reputation, they make one of the most powerful valerian root supplements.
Pros:
- Non-GMO
- Soy Free, Nut Free, Sugar Free, Vegan/Vegetarian, Egg Free, Dairy Free, Corn Free
- Low Sodium
- Affordable
- Has been tested for stability, potency, and product formulation
Cons:
- May cause drowsiness
Sundown Naturals Valerian Root
Why we picked it: Hypoallergenic, Non- GMO
Sundown Naturals Valerian Root contains a natural whole herb that will surely provide you with all the benefits of Valerian Root. It is a very effective supplement that is not too expensive. Some users may find their distinctive odor a little unpleasant.
Highlight:
- 2.12 g Valerian root per serving
- Gluten-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-GMO
- 100 Capsules
Who Makes It:
Sundown Naturals is committed to its customers to provide products that are consistent with its brand name and try to keep its products as natural as possible. Its entire range of products is 100% GMO-free. Their 40-year history of manufacturing high-quality food supplements has earned them loyal customer care.
Pros:
- Non-GMO
- Hypoallergenic
- Helps with sleeping disorder
- Gluten free
- Easily consumable
Cons:
- Has a distinctive odor
Solaray Organic Valerian
Why we picked it: Vegetarian, high content of valerenic acids
Solaray organic valerian root supplement offers a high content of valerenic acids, the active component of valerian. This organic green screen product is a very effective valerian root supplement.
Highlight:
- 1,030mg Valerian Root per serving
- Vegetarian
- High content of valerenic acids
- Trusted herbal supplement to promote restful sleep
- Non-habit forming sleep aid
- Can be consumed daily with no morning side effects
Who Makes It:
Solaray was founded in Utah in 1973, has since been one of the leading manufacturers of food supplements. They follow GMP guidelines and use stringent quality control measures, ensuring the purity of their ingredients and the potency of their supplements.
Pros:
- Contains a guaranteed potency valerian root extract
- Contains 2.4 mg of 0.8 percent valeric acid
- Promotes restful sleep
- Vegetarian
- Contains Vegetable Cellulose Capsule
Cons:
- Doesn’t have good taste
Solgar Valerian Root
Why we picked it: Vegetarian, hypoallergenic
Solgar valerian root extract provides a high content of valerenic acid, making it one of the best valerian root supplements. Due to its powerful standardized formulation, this Solgar product is an excellent product. Valerian root works harmoniously with the body’s natural relaxation cycle to leave a busy day and allow peaceful rest.
Highlight:
- Contains 300 mg standardized valerian extract per serving
- Provides 2.4mg valerenic acid
- Free of: Gluten, Sugar, Wheat, Dairy, Soy, Yeast, and Sodium.
- Also do not contain Artificial Flavors, Sweeteners, Preservatives or Colors
- Vegetarian
- Hypoallergenic
Who Makes It:
Solgar, the manufacturer of this product, has been around for over 70 years. Their science-based manufacturing approach and commitment to quality has earned them a reputation for being one of the best.
Pros:
- Has a special blend of antioxidants
- Non GMO
- Vegetarian
- Hypoallergenic
- Promotes relaxation
Cons:
- None.
Natural Factors Valerian Root
Why we picked it: Contains no artificial additives, Supports physical calm
Natural Factors Valerian Root contains a standardized extract of valerian root powder. It is a very effective valerian root supplement that can provide you with the benefits of valerian root. It is a good valerian root product made by a reputable company. The price per capsule is a little higher than we would like.
Highlights:
- Dairy, gluten, starch, yeast, wheat, and soy-free
- 300mg valerian root powdered extract
- Provides 2.4mg valerenic acid
- Contains no artificial additives
- Helps relaxing
- support physical calm
Who Makes It:
Natural Factors is a manufacturer of nutritional supplements from the 1950s. They use only non-genetically modified organic ingredients and take pride in the stringent quality control measures that every seed, herb, and ingredient goes through before being accepted.
Pros:
- Promotes restful calm
- Supports relaxation to ease tense muscle
- Support physical calm
- Improve the supply of GABA to ease tension and stress.
- Promotes a balanced mood
Cons:
- Does not smell good
Real Herbs Valerian Root Extract
Why we picked it: High potency, vegan
This powerful valerian root supplement contains valerian root extract that is potentially equivalent to 3,500 mg of dried valerian herb. While being energetic, it is essential to function, to be able to sleep and relax in practical and desired moments, it is also very important for one to function effectively. Real Herbs Valerian Root is well known for their natural relaxing qualities without the side effects of synthetic sleeping pills.
Highlights:
- Each capsule contains 700mg valerian root extract
- High potency
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Per-capsule price is somewhat high
- Helps to relax
- Aids in sleeping
Who Makes It:
Founded in 2008, Real Herbs is a relatively young company. Their openness in labeling, the quality of the ingredients, and strict compliance with GMP directives have allowed the company to carve out a place among the leading manufacturers of food supplements.
Pros:
- Naturally, aid induce sleep by increasing the level of the GABA in your brain
- Promotes calmness and peace of mind
- Soothes muscles ache and pain
- Good manufacturing practices certified
- High potency
- Money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Over consumption can cause nausea
Oregon’s Wild Harvest Valerian
Why we picked it: Non habit forming sleep aid
Oregon wild harvest valerian is 100% vegetarian and is made with non-GMO ingredients. It helps to relax the mind and body and enables you to sleep peacefully without getting used to it.
Highlights:
- Gelatin capsules
- Certified Organic Valerian Root
- No artificial flavors, colors, excipients or stearates
- Product Verified Non-GMO by SGS
- 180 NON-GMO
- Natural and NON-HABIT FORMING sleep aid
Who Makes It:
Founded in 1994, Oregon Wild Harvest is a younger company than many of its competitors. However, his science-based approach has earned him his reputation as one of the leading supplement manufacturers.
Pros:
- 450mg valerian root
- Certified organic
- Hypoallergenic
- Helps to fall asleep
- Free from artificial flavors, colors, excipients or stearates
Cons:
- Unpleasant taste
Pure Mountain Botanicals Valerian
Why we picked it: Pure and natural valerian root, eases muscle pain
Pure Mountain Botanicals Valerian one of the best and effective valerian supplements with concentrated valerian. It helps to fall asleep naturally without having to take any harmful chemicals.
Highlight:
- Pure naturals Valerian root – 500 MG
- increases the levels of GABA in the brain
- helps to fall asleep naturally
- reduces the amount of time one may take to fall asleep
- 120 capsules
- Eases muscle pain
Who Makes It:
Pure Mountain Botanicals Valerian is manufactured by the supplement making company named Pure Mountain Botanicals. The supplements they offer are pure and simple. Its goal is to make super clean and effective supplements accessible and affordable. They eliminate the middleman and make our healthy, carefully-crafted supplements available directly online. Everything is good for nature, delivered directly to your door. Its motto is customer satisfaction.
Pros:
- Naturally aids sleep
- Eases muscle pain
- Better stress management
- High standard
- Reduces anxiety
- Improves length and quality of sleep
Cons:
- Smells bad
Gaia Herbs Valerian Root
Why we picked it: High bio availability, organic
Gaia Herbs patented liquid Phyto-Caps are vegetarian; free of heavy metals, pesticides and other contaminants; and they are easily swallowed and quickly absorbed by the body.
Highlight:
- High bioavailability
- Vegetarian
- Gelatin free
- Dairy and gluten-free
- Certified organic
- Each serving contains 450mg of valerian root
Who Makes It:
As a business, Gaia Herbs has to do with purity and integrity. Gaia Herb’s success formula includes the treatment of all its family employees, as well as its commitment to providing high quality products that can help people maintain their well-being.
Pros:
- High bio availability
- Plant based supplement
- Organic
- Non GMO
- helps to relax
- promotes deep, restful sleep for occasional sleeplessness
Cons:
- None
How to Pick a Good Valerian Product
Because herbal remedies like valerian root are not widely regulated in the United States, you need to take steps to find safe and reliable products.
One way to do this is to check the label to see if the supplement has been certified by an independent agency such as US Pharmacopeia (USP), Consumer Lab and NSF International.10 These certification bodies are responsible for ensuring that the Medicines and supplements are voluntarily submitted to The test contains the active and inactive ingredients listed on the product label. As with any supplement, it is essential to purchasing from an accredited manufacturer who follows Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The high-quality products are available in different doses and strengths, which you should consider before purchasing.
Another way to choose supplements is to choose those that have been certified organic according to the regulations of the Organic Food Production Act, 1990.
Who Can Benefit from Valerian
For thousands of years, valerian herb has been used as a sedative in Europe and Asia. Many people around the world use it to treat insomnia and anxiety.
Those who have insomnia: valerian root is probably better known as a remedy for insomnia. It is very popular to aid people with a sleeping disorder, and a lot of supplements have valerian in it to promote good sleep.
Anxious people: Some believe that valerian root is a safe and natural alternative to prescribed anxiety medications, especially those such as Xanax (alprazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam), Valium (diazepam) and Ativan (lorazepam) that work on GABA receptors.
There is evidence to support these claims. Valerian root appears to act on receptors in a way that improves the transmission of GABA but without the pronounced sedative effects of a drug such as Valium. This can benefit people being treated for anxiety and other mood disorders.
Hot flashes: valerian root can help minimize hot flashes that usually affect women during menopause. The exact mechanism of action is not known because valerian does not appear to influence hormone levels directly.
Benefits of Valerian:
Naturally helps you sleep: Studies have shown that valerian makes it quicker to fall asleep and improves the quality of sleep, so if you can’t sleep, this may be precisely what you are looking for. Unlike many prescription sleeping pills, valerian has also no side effects and is much less likely to cause morning drowsiness.
In a double-blind study by the Foellinge Health Center in Sweden, the effects of valerian on poor sleep were significant. Among the study participants, 44% reported having a perfect sleep, while 89% reported having improved sleep when taking valerian root. Besides, there were no side effects observed for this group. Valerian root is often mixed with other sedative herbs, such as hops (Humulus lupulus) and lemon balm (Melissa Officinalis), to treat insomnia. In a study of children with minor problems with sleep published in Phytomedicine, 81% of those who took an herbal mixture of valerian and lemon balm reported that they slept much better than those who took a placebo. Valerian root helps to relax well because it contains a chemical called linarin, which creates a soothing effect.
Valerian extract can cause sedation by increasing the level of GABA in your brain. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that inhibits the central nervous system. In enough quantities, it can cause a sedative effect and can create an effect of calming nerve activities.
A vitro study suggests that valerian extract may cause GABA to break free from nerve endings in the brain and then block the entry of GABA into nerve cells. Besides, valerian acid valerian inhibits an enzyme that destroys GABA, another way that valerian can improve your GABA levels and promote excellent nighttime rest.
Calm anxiety: Scientists have discovered that valerian root can increase the amount of a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) via GABA receptors. GABA helps to regulate the nerve cells and calms anxiety. Drugs such as diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax) can too work by increasing the amount of GABA level in the brain. The valerenol and valerenic acid contained in valerian root extract act as agents against anxiety.
Surprisingly, an herbal remedy like valerian root can have the same anti-anxiety effects as prescription drugs without all of the serious side effects of psychotropic drugs. If you are taking other calming or antidepressant drugs (such as tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline or tetracyclic antidepressants), you should avoid taking Valerian at the same time.
Reduce blood pressure: Now that you already know that valerian root can be so relaxing for your mind and body, it’s probably not surprising to hear that it can also help lower blood pressure and improve heart health. The components that make valerian root so effective at managing stress and anxiety can also help the body properly regulate its blood pressure.
High blood pressure is something you should definitely avoid, as it increases the risk of stroke and heart attack. Studies have shown that valerian root supplements can help lower blood pressure naturally and keep it at a healthy and balanced level, which has a direct positive effect on your heart health.
Relieves menstrual cramps: The relaxing nature of valerian root makes it the right choice for natural relief from menstrual cramps. It can help reduce the severity and discomfort of menstrual cramps, which is a very common problem for women who suffer from monthly PMS. It is a natural sedative and antispasmodic, which means that it suppresses muscle spasms and acts as a natural muscle relaxant.
Valerian root can effectively calm the severe contractions of the uterine muscle that cause the terrible pain that many women experience during menstruation, as demonstrated by a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study by Islamic University Azad in Iran.
Improves stress management: By reducing anxiety and improving the duration and quality of sleep, valerian root can significantly help manage stress daily. Chronic stress will make you anxious, but anxiety can also make you more stressed. By improving GABA levels in the brain, valerian makes it easier to relax the mind and body. As relaxation is the antithesis of stress, valerian root supplements is a great natural way to help maintain stress and improve quality of life.
Additionally, research has shown that valerian root suppresses physical and psychological stress by helping to maintain serotonin levels, in complementary and alternative medicine BMC. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood.
How to Take Valerian
Some people like to make tea with valerian to drink before bed, which helps them calm down and sleep better. Others prefer to make tinctures because some of the components of valerian are not water-soluble. A more practical method that requires minimal effort on your part and that will surely provide you with all the benefits of valerian root is to take it in capsule form. Valerian supplements contain a concentrated extract of valerian root, which is quickly absorbed and generally well tolerated.
According to some sources, the recommended dose of valerian root for insomnia varies from 250 to 600 mg before bedtime or up to 3 doses during the day. The effects may take a few days or weeks to appear. A higher dose of valerian root supplement should always be well-tolerated, but we recommend you to start with a small dose and then increase the dose if necessary.
The dose of valerian supplement for anxiety is often lower than that required for insomnia. 120-200 mg three times a day is a good place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions about Valerian Root Supplements
Q: Is there a side effect of valerian root?
A: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) categorized valerian root in the “generally recognized as safe (GRAS)” category, which means it can be safely used as a food additive or dietary supplement. Most clinical trials conducted to assess the benefits and effects have not reported any significant side effects. Although some studies have reported headaches, dizziness, itching, and gastrointestinal upset, similar results were often reported in the placebo groups.
Besides, a clinical trial was conducted to assess the effect of valerian root extract on reaction time, alertness, and concentration in the morning after taking it, and no negative impact was found. Valerian can interact with other depressants in the central nervous system, potentially causing harmful effects. It is suggested not to take valerian with benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax), barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital), morphine, or alcohol.
We suggest that you should talk to your doctor before using valerian root, especially if you are taking medication.
Q: Is valerian root helpful?
A: Most studies have shown that valerian root and its extracts do work. On average, it reduces the amount of time to fall asleep by 20 minutes. Moreover, it improves the quality of sleep if taken 2 hours before bed time.
Q: Does valerian cause body odor?
A: If you are taking fresh valerian root, there is a possibility of experiencing an earthy body odor. But most of the supplements are free from it.
Q: Can I take valerian every day?
A: It depends on your purpose of taking the supplement. For example, if you are looking for anxiety remedies, 500-600 mg a day for a few weeks should work for you. Consuming too much valerian in day time might cause daytime sleepiness.
Final Thoughts
Valerian is famous for its anxiolytic, sedative, anticonvulsant, antibacterial, antidiuretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used in the natural treatment of anxiety, blood pressure, and symptoms of menopause, menstrual cramps, headaches, joint pain, and sleep disturbances. This herb has been used for chronic fatigue syndrome, epilepsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, upset stomach, and other conditions.
You can choose any one of the supplements from our list according to your preferences and get the benefits from the supplements.
