Overview
Valeriana officinalis for sleep.
- Whole dried plant material (root, leaf, flower, or aerial parts depending on the species)
- Standardized hydroethanolic or aqueous extract (capsule, tincture, or tea)
- Powdered traditional preparation used in Ayurvedic, TCM, or Western herbal practice
- Standardized extract capsule
- Liquid tincture (alcohol or glycerin)
- Powdered whole herb
- Traditional decoction or tea
Mechanism of action
Valerenic acid modulates GABA-A.
- · Valerenic acid modulates GABA-A
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
Valerian Root Extract promotes parasympathetic tone, GABAergic signaling, or melatonergic pathways that facilitate sleep onset and quality.
Evidence-based benefits
Improves sleep quality
Moderate evidencePotential side effects
- · Morning drowsiness
Drug interactions
Safety & non-supplemental interactions
Educational summary — always confirm with your clinician or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or combining with prescription therapy.
- ·Pregnant or breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
- ·Children under 18 (unless directed by a clinician)
- ·Alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, sedating antihistamines (additive CNS depression)
Supplement interactions
- Magnesium glycinateComplementary GABAergic calming and improved sleep architecture.
- L-theanineReduces sleep latency without sedation.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
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Third-party testedIndependently verified Valerian Root Extract — look for USP, NSF, or Informed Sport seals on the label for purity and dose accuracy.Valerian Root Extract third party tested NSF
CapsulesPre-measured Valerian Root Extract capsules — easiest for travel and consistent daily dosing without scoops or scales.Valerian Root Extract capsules
PowderBulk unflavored Valerian Root Extract powder — best cost-per-gram and flexible dosing for stacking or mixing into drinks.Valerian Root Extract powder unflavored
Best sellersMost-purchased Valerian Root Extract products on Amazon — a quick way to see what's reviewed widely before you commit.Valerian Root Extract best sellerScientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
Valerian meta-analysis
Bent S, et al.
16 RCTs
Improved subjective sleep quality.
PubMed: Valerian Root Extract — Improves sleep quality
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PubMed: Valerian Root Extract — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: Valerian Root Extract — dose response
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Google Scholar: Valerian Root Extract — clinical evidence
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