Back to library
adaptogenEVIDENCEBUSOTC

Valerian Root

Herbal sedative used for centuries for insomnia and anxiety. Acts via GABA pathway.

Dose range300–600mg
Half-life2h
Onsetmin
Safety4/5medium evidence base

Mechanism of action

Valerenic acid is a positive allosteric modulator of GABA-A receptors. Inhibits GABA breakdown.

Benefits

  • Sleep latency

    EVIDENCEB

    Bent 2006 meta-analysis.

  • Mild anxiety

    EVIDENCEB

    Multiple RCTs.

Side effects

  • Morning drowsinesscommonmild
  • Vivid dreamsuncommonmild

Where to buy

Affiliate links
VendorProductSizePricePer unit
Double Wood Supplements 4.4Valerian Root, 120ct (500mg)120 × 500mg$13.99$0.12Buy