StackTerminal.Health

BETA

Valerian

Traditional sleep & anxiety herb; meta-analyses show modest sleep quality improvements but high trial heterogeneity.

sleepstresscalm

Evidence last reviewed: 04 Apr 2026

Evidence
1 record
1 recordBest grade:Moderate
Biomarkers
Sleep Quality (subjective)Sleep Latency

Meta-analyses suggest valerian may improve subjective sleep quality, but objective measures are inconsistent. The evidence is moderate, with variability in trial outcomes and participant responses.

Sleep quality / sleep latency
Adults with mild insomnia · Meta-analyses of RCTs
Moderate

Subjective sleep quality improvements in several trials; objective measures (polysomnography) less consistent.

Dose: 450 mgDuration: 2–4 weeks
Take 30–60 min before bed; may need 2+ weeks for full effect.
Stacks containing Valerian
Explore all →
sleeprecoverycalm

Combining Valerian with Magnesium L-Threonate can enhance sleep quality and promote recovery. Valerian is known for its calming effects, while Magnesium L-Threonate supports relaxation and cognitive recovery.

Valerian
500mg
Magnesium L-Threonate
1500mg
New
View
Community Insights
Forms & usage
How to take it

Take 300-600 mg of valerian root extract 30 minutes to 2 hours before bedtime.

Valerian root extract (0.8% valerenic acid)
Standardised extract.
Valerian + hops
Common combination for sleep.
Safety & trade-offs3
Timing

Significant drowsiness — do not drive or operate heavy machinery after use

Interaction

Additive CNS depression with benzodiazepines, alcohol, and other sedatives — do not combine

Neural

Paradoxical stimulation and vivid dreams in a minority of users

High  Moderate   Low / note

My notes
Sign in to keep a private note on Valerian.