Valerian is an herb that has been cultivated in North America since the early 1800s. Valerian root extract supports a mild relaxing and sleep-supporting effect without inducing drowsiness.¹ It has also been shown to support a healthy reaction to mental stress.² Research has shown that valerian and its active compound valerenic acid activate the 5-hydroxytroptophan (5-HT) 5a receptor.³

Benefits at a Glance:

• Promote a sense of relaxation
• Supports a transition to sleep
• Helps maintain quality sleep
• Liquid Phyto-Caps® provide a convenient way to take liquid herbal extracts

Researchers who reviewed 16 studies that included a total of 1,093 participants concluded that the available evidence suggests that valerian root may improve sleep quality without unwanted effects when consumed at bedtime.⁴ Another analysis, which involved 18 randomized trials, found that valerian improved self-rated sleep quality by 37% compared to a placebo.⁵

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial of insomnia patients, an extract of valerian was associated with positive effects on sleep structure and sleep perception.⁶ Another randomized, placebo-controlled trial, involving postmenopausal women with insomnia, found that 30% of women who received valerian extract experienced improved sleep quality compared to 4% of the placebo group.⁷

References

1. Farah GJ et al. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2019 Sep;77(9):1796.e1-1796.e8.
2. Cropley M et al. Phytother Res. 2002 Feb;16(1):23-7.
3. Dietz BM et al. Brain Res Mol Brain Res. 2005 Aug 18;138(2):191-7.
4. Bent S et al. Am J Med. 2006 Dec;119(12):1005-12.
5. Fernández-San-Martín MI et al. Sleep Med. 2010 Jun;11(6):505-11.
6. Donath F et al. Pharmacopsychiatry. 2000 Mar;33(2):47-53.
7. Taavoni S et al. Menopause. 2011 Sep;18(9):951-5.