Supplements

Valeriana officinalis improves sleep quality in individuals with insomnia

The review found that Valeriana officinalis demonstrated sedative effects and improvements in sleep quality in clinical studies. Proposed mechanisms include modulation of GABAergic pathways. However, clinically relevant risks such as excessive sedation and herb-drug interactions were identified.

Last updated: Jul 7, 2026•0 RCTs•📖 Read as article →

Evidence Score

Evidence Score32/100
Human RCT☆☆☆☆☆
Meta-analysis☆☆☆☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
Confidencelow

Study Evidence

Study 1. Efficacy and Safety of Herbal Supplements with Anxiolytic, Antidepressant, and Sedative Action: A Review of Clinical Data and Toxicological Risks.

observational

Căuș MN, Lupoae M, Chițescu CL · Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) (2026)

Participants: N/A
Duration: N/A
Intervention: Various herbal supplements including Valeriana officinalis, Passiflora incarnata, and Withania somnifera
Outcome: Sleep quality, sedation, mood, stress levels
Effect Size: N/A
Population: Patients with anxiety, depression, and insomnia

Result:

PubMed: 41901246DOI: 10.3390/ph19030399

Mechanism Graph

Modulation of GABAergic pathways
↓
Increased GABA activity in the brain
↓
Reduced neuronal excitability
↓
Result: Sedative and sleep-promoting effects

Limitations

  • ⚠Narrative review design without systematic meta-analysis, limiting quantitative effect size estimation
  • ⚠Potential for excessive sedation and cytochrome P450-mediated drug interactions not fully quantified

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Valeriana officinalis safe for long-term use?▼

The review indicates potential risks including excessive sedation and herb-drug interactions, but long-term safety data are limited; clinical monitoring is recommended.

How does valerian compare to prescription sleep aids?▼

The review does not directly compare valerian to prescription drugs, but notes it may provide clinically meaningful benefits for sleep, though with less robust evidence than pharmaceuticals.

Can valerian be taken with other medications?▼

Caution is advised due to cytochrome P450-mediated drug interactions, which could alter the metabolism of other medications.

What is the typical dose of valerian for sleep?▼

The review does not specify a recommended dose, as it summarizes multiple studies with varying dosages.

Products

Affiliate links coming soon. We only recommend products that match the doses and forms used in the cited research.

References

  1. 1.Căuș MN, Lupoae M, Chițescu CL. "Efficacy and Safety of Herbal Supplements with Anxiolytic, Antidepressant, and Sedative Action: A Review of Clinical Data and Toxicological Risks.." Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland), 2026. PMID: 41901246 DOI: 10.3390/ph19030399
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Evidence scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or intervention.