Best Valerian for Anxiety (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Valerian root has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for anxiety, restlessness, and nervous tension. If you’re looking for a plant-based approach to managing occasional anxiety, this guide covers the top valerian supplements available today, from high-potency extracts to gentle formulas that combine valerian with complementary calming herbs.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Best Overall: NOW Foods Valerian Root 500mg — trusted brand with pure extract
- Best Value: Nutricost Valerian Root 1000mg — high potency at great price
- Best Premium: Gaia Herbs Valerian Root — liquid phyto-caps for fast absorption
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Ingredients | Form | Servings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOW Foods Valerian Root 500mg | Valerian Root 500mg | Capsules | 125 | Overall use |
| Nutricost Valerian Root 1000mg | Valerian Root 4:1 Extract | Capsules | 60 | Best value |
| Gaia Herbs Valerian Root | Valerian Root Extract | Liquid Caps | 30 | Fast absorption |
| WellPath Zen Stress Relief | Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, L-Theanine | Capsules | 60 | Multi-herb blend |
| Relaxium Calm | Ashwagandha, 5-HTP, Magnesium | Capsules | 60 | Mood support |
| Nature’s Truth Valerian Root 2400mg | Valerian Root Blend 2400mg | Capsules | 45 | High potency |
| MaryRuth Organics Valerian Drops | Organic Valerian Root | Liquid | 60 | USDA Organic |
1. NOW Foods Valerian Root 500mg — Best Overall
- TRADITIONAL HERB/HERBAL SUPPLEMENT: Valerian Root has been an herbal favorite in many cultures for centuries.
- 500 mg VEGAN CAPSULE: Take 2 capsules prior to bedtime as needed.
- CERTIFICATIONS/CLASSIFICATIONS: Non-GMO, Soy Free, Nut Free, Sugar Free, Vegan/Vegetarian, Egg Free, Dairy Free, Corn Free, Low Sodium
- GMP Quality Assured: NPA A-rated GMP certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined, including our laboratory/testing methods (for stability, potency, and product formulation).
- Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968
NOW Foods delivers a straightforward, high-quality valerian root supplement that’s been a trusted choice for anxiety relief for decades.
Each vegetarian capsule provides 500mg of pure valerian root (Valeriana officinalis), standardized for consistency and potency. This family-owned company has been manufacturing supplements since 1968 and maintains strict GMP certification. The formula is free from common allergens including soy, dairy, eggs, and nuts, making it suitable for most dietary needs.
What We Like
- GMP certified by an independent third party for quality assurance
- Pure valerian root with no fillers or unnecessary additives
- 250 capsules provide excellent value for daily use
- Vegan, non-GMO, and free from major allergens
What Could Be Better
- May have a strong natural odor typical of valerian root
- Some users may prefer a higher concentration extract
Bottom Line: NOW Foods Valerian Root offers reliable quality, purity, and value for anyone seeking natural anxiety support.
2. Nutricost Valerian Root 1000mg — Best Value
No products found.
Nutricost provides concentrated valerian root extract that delivers 4000mg equivalent potency per serving at an affordable price point.
Using a 4:1 extract ratio, each serving provides 1000mg of concentrated valerian root extract, equivalent to 4000mg of whole root powder. This concentrated formula means you get more active compounds in fewer capsules. The vegetarian capsules are third-party tested and manufactured in a GMP-compliant facility.
What We Like
- Concentrated 4:1 extract for enhanced potency
- 120 capsules provide 60 servings at a budget-friendly price
- Vegetarian capsules that are gluten-free and non-GMO
- Third-party tested for purity and potency
What Could Be Better
- Extract concentration may be too strong for valerian beginners
- Requires taking multiple capsules per serving
Bottom Line: Nutricost delivers exceptional value with a concentrated extract that provides maximum bang for your buck.
3. Gaia Herbs Valerian Root — Best Premium
No products found.
Gaia Herbs uses liquid phyto-cap technology to deliver fast-absorbing valerian root extract for quick calming effects.
These innovative liquid-filled capsules contain concentrated valerian root extract that’s absorbed more quickly than traditional powder capsules. Gaia Herbs uses organic valerian and follows strict quality standards from seed to shelf. Each serving provides potent valerian root extract in an easily digestible vegan capsule.
What We Like
- Liquid phyto-cap technology for superior absorption
- Made from certified organic valerian root
- Vegan capsules with no artificial ingredients
- Family-owned company with over 30 years of herbal expertise
What Could Be Better
- Higher price point than standard valerian supplements
- Only 30 servings per bottle requires more frequent reordering
Bottom Line: Gaia Herbs offers premium quality and fast absorption for those willing to invest in a top-tier valerian supplement.
4. WellPath Zen Stress Relief — Best Multi-Herb Blend
- [Stress Relief Formula] Do you get overwhelmed by daily stressors? We know the feeling! Which is why we created Zen. It's expertly curated with herbs, vitamins, and adaptogens to support your daily stressors and help you live in a zen state of mind!
- [Stay Focused and Calm] You deserve to live a happy, healthy life. That's why we combine superfoods like Passionflower & Niacinamide powder with Riboflavin and magnesium in our products so you can be more positive throughout your day!
- [Vitamins for Men and Women] Zen's vitamin supplement is a vegan daily multivitamin for women and men who want to help improve their mood. We use naturally sourced herbal ingredients to help cultivate a positive sense of well-being.
- [Premium Herbal Ingredients] WellPath Zen's calming vitamin features Ashwagandha, an Ayurvedic herb known to assist with balancing occasional stress; Rhodiola Rosea, L-Theanine, Hawthorn Leaf, Lemon Balm & more! Designed for your daily stress support
- [Featuring Ashwagandha + Rhodiola Rosea] Ashwagandha & Rhodiola Rosea are adaptogenic herbs known for their ability to help the body adapt to stress & improve energy levels.
WellPath Zen combines ashwagandha, rhodiola, and L-theanine in a comprehensive stress and anxiety support formula.
This multi-ingredient blend targets anxiety from multiple angles, combining adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola with calming amino acid L-theanine. The formula is designed to support both immediate calm and long-term stress resilience. Each serving provides clinically-studied doses of key ingredients for mood and energy support.
What We Like
- Comprehensive blend addresses multiple stress pathways
- Includes ashwagandha root extract standardized to withanolides
- L-theanine provides calm focus without drowsiness
- Non-habit forming with natural ingredients
What Could Be Better
- Not pure valerian for those seeking single-herb approach
- Multiple ingredients may make it harder to identify what works best
Bottom Line: WellPath Zen offers a well-rounded approach to anxiety relief with scientifically-backed adaptogenic herbs.
5. Relaxium Calm — Best for Mood Support
- STRESS & MOOD STABILIZER: Relaxium Calm, made with Ashwagandha, uses a whole-body solution to help manage stress and promote relaxation by supplying essential vitamins for mood support and stress relief.
- SAFE, POTENT & NON-HABIT FORMING: Doctor formulated, this calming supplement is non-habit forming, easy-to-swallow, and side-effect free. Relaxium Calm is your effective and gentle answer to relieving stress, worry and improving your mood.
- HIGH QUALITY & PURE INGREDIENTS: Relaxium Calm is produced by one of the most pristine and experienced dietary supplement manufacturers. Cruelty Free.
- MADE IN THE USA: Made at an FDA-inspected facility for quality you can trust, Relaxium Calm provides the perfect synergistic blend of ingredients for reliable potency and effectiveness. Our facilities use state of the art technology and adheres to strict FDA manufacturing practices.
- 100% MONEY-BACK: We created a calm supplement that fits your life. Your satisfaction is our top priority; if we don't meet your expectations just send your stress relief supplement back for a 30-day full refund.
Relaxium Calm combines stress-reducing herbs with mood-supporting nutrients like 5-HTP and magnesium.
This formula goes beyond basic stress relief to support overall mood balance with ingredients like ashwagandha, 5-HTP, and magnesium bisglycinate. The addition of immune-supporting ingredients makes this a comprehensive wellness supplement. Each capsule is designed to promote calm without causing drowsiness during the day.
What We Like
- 5-HTP supports serotonin production for mood balance
- Magnesium bisglycinate is highly absorbable and gentle on digestion
- Ashwagandha helps body adapt to stress over time
- Includes immune support ingredients for overall wellness
What Could Be Better
- 5-HTP may interact with certain medications
- More expensive than single-ingredient valerian supplements
Bottom Line: Relaxium Calm provides comprehensive stress, mood, and immune support in one convenient formula.
6. Nature’s Truth Valerian Root 2400mg — Best High Potency
- TRADITIONAL HERB: Receive Valerian Root, carefully extracted from the Valeriana officinalis plant
- BEDTIME ROUTINE: Easily add these quick release capsules to your nighttime routine
- HONEST & TRANSPARENT: Nature’s Truth is committed to delivering quality wellness products
- EXPERTS YOU CAN TRUST: Backed by three generations of Vitamin Innovators for unrivaled quality
- MADE WITHOUT: Gluten, Wheat, Milk, Lactose, Soy, Artificial Sweetener & Flavor, and Non-GMO
Nature’s Truth delivers an ultra-high potency valerian blend with 2400mg equivalent per serving.
This proprietary blend combines valerian root extract with whole valerian root to provide 2400mg equivalent potency per two-capsule serving. The quick-release capsules are designed to work within 30 minutes of bedtime or during stressful moments. Nature’s Truth uses a 10:1 extract for concentrated benefits.
What We Like
- 2400mg equivalent provides maximum strength formula
- Combines extract and whole root for comprehensive benefits
- Quick-release capsules for faster onset of effects
- Non-GMO and gluten-free formulation
What Could Be Better
- Very high potency may be excessive for some users
- Requires taking two capsules per serving
Bottom Line: Nature’s Truth offers maximum-strength valerian for those who need powerful anxiety support.
7. MaryRuth Organics Valerian Drops — Best Organic Liquid
- USDA Organic Valerian Root: This root is considered a Nervine — one of a group of plants that are traditionally known to have a soothing and supporting effect on the mind and nervous system.
- Sleep Support: Do you occasionally find it difficult to relax or fall asleep? If so, this traditional herb may be exactly what you’ve been searching for! Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has a long history of traditional use as a calming, sleep-enhancing plant, from around the 2nd century, to the modern day.
- Vegan Formula: Per Serving (0.5 mL): Organic Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Root. Other Ingredients: Organic Glycerin, Purified Water. Our Organic Glycerin is derived from Rapeseed, a yellow flowering plant in the mustard family Brassicaceae.
- Easy-to-Take Liquid Drops: USDA Organic Valerian Root can be taken directly by mouth or added to water. Shake well before use. Take up to 15 drops (0.5 mL) 1 to 3 times a day, or as recommended by a physician or healthcare professional. Each bottle comes with 60 servings.
- For Most Lifestyles: MaryRuth's Organic Valerian Root Liquid Extract Drops are USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Vegan, Made in a GMP Facility. Dairy Free, Nut Free, Gluten Free, Soy Free, Sugar Free, No Synthetic or Artificial Colors, Alcohol Free Tincture. Clean Label Project Certified. B Corp Certified.
MaryRuth Organics provides USDA Organic valerian root in a convenient liquid drop format.
These alcohol-free liquid drops use organic glycerin extraction to preserve the beneficial compounds in valerian root. The liquid format allows for flexible dosing and faster absorption than capsules. Each bottle provides 60 servings of USDA Organic valerian root with no added sugar or artificial ingredients.
What We Like
- USDA Organic certification ensures quality and purity
- Alcohol-free formula using gentle glycerin extraction
- Liquid drops allow for customizable dosing
- Sugar-free, vegan, and non-GMO
What Could Be Better
- Liquid form may be less convenient for travel than capsules
- Glycerin-based formula has mild sweet taste some may not prefer
Bottom Line: MaryRuth Organics delivers certified organic valerian in a flexible, fast-absorbing liquid format.
How to Choose the Best Valerian for Anxiety
When selecting a valerian supplement for anxiety relief, the first consideration is the form and concentration. Standard valerian root powders typically provide 300-600mg per serving, while concentrated extracts can offer equivalent doses of 2000-4000mg. If you’re new to valerian, start with a lower-potency option to assess your response before moving to stronger formulas.
Look for supplements that specify the extraction ratio and standardization. Quality valerian supplements should contain at least 2mg of valerenic acids per dose, the active compounds believed responsible for valerian’s calming effects. Products that list their valerenic acid content or use standardized extracts tend to provide more consistent results.
Third-party testing and quality certifications matter significantly. GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certification indicates the manufacturer follows strict quality control standards. Third-party testing for heavy metals like lead and cadmium is also important, as some valerian supplements have been found to contain concerning levels of contaminants.
Consider whether you want pure valerian or a combination formula. Single-ingredient supplements make it easier to identify what works for your body and adjust dosing as needed. However, combination formulas that pair valerian with complementary herbs like passionflower, lemon balm, or L-theanine may provide enhanced benefits for some users.
The delivery format affects both convenience and absorption. Capsules and tablets are portable and have no taste, making them popular choices. Liquid extracts and tinctures absorb more quickly and allow for flexible dosing. Liquid phyto-caps combine the convenience of capsules with the fast absorption of liquids. Choose based on your lifestyle and preferences.
Benefits of Valerian for Anxiety
Valerian root has been used for over 2,000 years as a natural remedy for nervous tension and anxiety. Modern research suggests it works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain, the same neurotransmitter targeted by prescription anti-anxiety medications. By enhancing GABA activity, valerian may help calm the nervous system and reduce feelings of worry and restlessness.
Studies show valerian may be particularly effective for reducing anxiety related to stressful situations. Research indicates it can help lower subjective anxiety ratings and reduce physiological markers of stress like elevated heart rate and blood pressure. The calming effects typically develop over several weeks of consistent use, though some people notice benefits within a few hours of taking it.
Unlike many prescription anxiety medications, valerian is generally non-habit forming and doesn’t cause significant dependence or withdrawal symptoms. This makes it a safer option for long-term use in managing chronic anxiety. However, it’s always best to work with a healthcare provider when using valerian long-term, especially if you have existing health conditions.
Valerian’s effects on anxiety may extend beyond just symptom relief. Some research suggests it may help improve sleep quality in people with anxiety, as poor sleep and anxiety often create a vicious cycle. By addressing both issues, valerian may help break this pattern and support overall mental wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for valerian to work for anxiety?
Valerian’s effects on anxiety develop at different rates depending on the type of use. For acute anxiety relief, some people notice calming effects within 30 minutes to 2 hours after taking valerian. However, for sustained anxiety management, valerian typically requires consistent daily use for 2-4 weeks to build up in your system and provide maximum benefits. This cumulative effect is due to valerian’s mechanism of gradually enhancing GABA activity in the brain.
What is the best dosage of valerian for anxiety?
Most research on valerian for anxiety uses doses between 300-600mg of valerian extract taken 1-3 times daily. For concentrated extracts, this might equate to 1500-3000mg equivalent potency. Start with the lower end of this range and increase gradually if needed. Taking valerian about 30-60 minutes before a stressful event or at times when anxiety typically peaks may provide the best results. Always follow the dosage recommendations on your specific product.
Can I take valerian for anxiety every day?
Yes, valerian is generally considered safe for daily use for up to 28 days at a time in clinical studies, though many people use it for longer periods without issues. If you plan to use valerian daily for extended periods, it’s wise to take occasional breaks (such as one week off every 4-8 weeks) and to consult with a healthcare provider. Monitor how you feel and adjust your usage based on your individual response and needs.
Does valerian cause drowsiness during the day?
Valerian can cause mild drowsiness in some people, especially at higher doses or when first starting supplementation. This effect is typically less pronounced than prescription sedatives, but it’s important to see how valerian affects you before driving or operating machinery. Some people experience drowsiness while others simply feel more relaxed and calm. Taking valerian in the evening or starting with smaller daytime doses can help minimize unwanted drowsiness.
Can I take valerian with other anxiety supplements?
Valerian can be safely combined with many other calming supplements like magnesium, L-theanine, or passionflower, and some products are specifically formulated with these combinations. However, avoid combining multiple sedating supplements without professional guidance, as effects can be additive. Never combine valerian with prescription anti-anxiety medications or sedatives without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to excessive sedation or other interactions.
Are there any side effects of taking valerian for anxiety?
Valerian is well-tolerated by most people, but some may experience mild side effects including headache, upset stomach, dry mouth, or vivid dreams. A small percentage of people experience a paradoxical stimulating effect rather than calming. These side effects are typically mild and resolve when you discontinue use. If you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription medications, consult with a healthcare provider before using valerian.
How is valerian different from prescription anxiety medication?
Valerian is a botanical supplement that works gently to support the body’s natural calming mechanisms, while prescription anti-anxiety medications are synthetic drugs with more powerful and immediate effects. Valerian is non-habit forming and available without a prescription, making it accessible for mild to moderate anxiety. However, it’s not a replacement for prescription medication in cases of severe anxiety disorders. The effects of valerian are typically milder and take longer to develop than prescription options.
Should I take valerian in the morning or evening for anxiety?
The timing depends on when you experience anxiety symptoms. For daytime anxiety, split your dose between morning and afternoon, using smaller amounts to avoid drowsiness. For anxiety that peaks in the evening or interferes with sleep, taking valerian 30-60 minutes before bedtime may be most beneficial. Some people find taking it consistently at the same time each day helps maintain steady effects. Experiment to find what timing works best for your individual anxiety patterns.
