Best Valerian Root Supplements for Sleep (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Valerian root has been used for centuries as a natural sleep aid, helping millions of people relax and drift off without the grogginess of prescription medications. With growing interest in melatonin-free alternatives and herbal remedies, valerian remains one of the most trusted options for occasional sleeplessness.
The best valerian supplements deliver adequate potency (typically 300-900mg of extract), use quality sourcing, and absorb effectively. Here are our top 10 picks for 2026.
| Product | Key Ingredients | Servings | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zazzee Organic Valerian Root | Valerian 10:1 Extract | 120 | Capsules | Best Overall |
| NOW Foods Valerian Root | Valerian Root 500mg | 125 | Capsules | Best Value |
| Nutricost Valerian Root | Valerian 4:1 Extract | 60 | Capsules | Best High-Potency |
| Ultra6 Nutrition Melatonin + Valerian | Valerian, Melatonin, 5-HTP | 60 | Liquid Drops | Best Liquid Formula |
| WellPath Rest Sleep Aid | Valerian, Melatonin, L-Theanine | 60 | Capsules | Best Multi-Ingredient Blend |
| Superior Source Super Slumber Helper | Valerian, Melatonin, GABA | 90 | Dissolving Tablets | Best Sublingual Option |
| Snap Supplements Natural Sleep Aid | Valerian, Melatonin | 60 | Capsules | Best for Beginners |
| Liposomal Kava + Valerian Drops | Kava, Valerian, Magnesium | 60 | Liquid Drops | Best for Stress + Sleep |
| Vitamatic Melatonin + Valerian | Melatonin 10mg, Valerian | 120 | Tablets | Best Budget Option |
| Zentastic Sleep Aid | Valerian, Suntheanine, Magnesium | 60 | Capsules | Best Melatonin-Free Complex |
1. Zazzee USDA Organic Valerian Root – Best Overall
Why it stands out: This is the purest, highest-potency standalone valerian on our list. The 10:1 extract delivers 3,000mg strength per capsule from USDA-certified organic valerian root, giving you serious sleep support without any fillers or synthetic additives.
Zazzee’s formula uses Valeriana officinalis sourced from certified organic farms, then concentrated to 10x potency for maximum effectiveness. What sets this apart is the single-ingredient purity—you’re getting nothing but concentrated organic valerian root extract, making it ideal for those who want to experience valerian’s benefits without interference from other compounds. The extraction process preserves the full spectrum of active compounds including valerenic acid and valepotriates.
The 120-capsule bottle provides a generous 4-month supply at the recommended single capsule dose, making it one of the best values on the market despite its premium quality. It’s 100% vegetarian, non-GMO, and manufactured in the USA in a GMP-certified, FDA-registered facility with rigorous third-party testing. If you want valerian root in its most potent, unadulterated form, this is the gold standard.
Pros:
- USDA organic certified with 10:1 potent extract
- 4-month supply per bottle (exceptional value)
- No melatonin, fillers, or artificial ingredients
- Vegan capsules made in USA
- Single-ingredient formula for purists
Cons:
- Strong earthy smell typical of quality valerian
- May be too potent for first-time users
Best for: Anyone wanting a pure, high-potency valerian supplement without melatonin or other sleep compounds.
2. NOW Foods Valerian Root – Best Value
Why it stands out: NOW Foods has been a trusted name in supplements since 1968, and their valerian root capsules deliver consistent quality at an unbeatable price point. With over 10,000 positive reviews and Amazon’s #1 ranking in the valerian category, this is the most popular valerian supplement on the market.
Each vegan capsule contains 500mg of pure valerian root powder (not extract). The recommended dose is 2 capsules (1,000mg) taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime. While this uses whole root rather than concentrated extract, many users prefer this form as it provides the complete profile of valerian’s natural compounds exactly as they appear in the plant.
NOW’s A-rated GMP certification ensures rigorous quality control throughout manufacturing, with every batch tested for identity, purity, and potency. The formula is impressively clean: non-GMO, soy-free, nut-free, sugar-free, dairy-free, corn-free, and vegan—making it suitable for virtually any dietary restriction. The hypromellose capsules are vegetarian-friendly and easy to swallow.
At 250 capsules per bottle, you’re getting 125 servings—roughly 4 months of nightly use at an extremely competitive price. This is the valerian supplement we recommend most often to people trying the herb for the first time, thanks to its balanced potency and rock-solid reputation.
Pros:
- Trusted brand with 55+ years of reputation
- 250 vegan capsules per bottle (4-month supply)
- Clean formula free of all major allergens
- Extremely affordable per serving
- Over 10,000 verified reviews
Cons:
- Lower potency than concentrated extracts
- Characteristic valerian odor
- Requires 2 capsules per dose
Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers who want a reliable, no-frills valerian supplement from a reputable brand.
3. Nutricost Valerian Root – Best High-Potency
Why it stands out: Nutricost delivers the equivalent of 4,000mg of valerian root per serving through their concentrated 4:1 extract. If you’ve tried standard-dose valerian without success, this higher-potency option may provide the sleep support you need.
The 4:1 extraction ratio means you’re getting four times the concentration of regular valerian root powder. Each 2-capsule serving delivers 1,000mg of extract, which is equivalent to 4,000mg of whole root. This concentrated approach means more active compounds like valerenic acid per capsule, potentially delivering stronger effects for those who haven’t responded to lower doses.
Nutricost keeps the formula refreshingly simple—valerian root extract is the only active ingredient, with just vegetable capsule material and magnesium stearate as inactive ingredients. The vegetarian capsules are manufactured in an NSF-certified, GMP-compliant, FDA-registered facility with third-party testing for purity and potency. This level of certification is relatively rare in the supplement industry and speaks to Nutricost’s commitment to quality.
With 120 capsules providing 60 servings, you get a 2-month supply at the standard dose. The cost per serving is competitive with lower-potency products, making this an excellent value for the concentration you’re getting.
Pros:
- High-potency 4:1 concentrated extract
- NSF-certified manufacturing facility
- Vegetarian, gluten-free, non-GMO
- Single-ingredient formula (no additives)
- Competitive price for potency level
Cons:
- May be too strong for sensitive individuals
- Smaller serving count than some competitors
- Requires 2 capsules per serving
Best for: Those who haven’t found relief with standard-dose valerian and need a more concentrated formula.
4. Ultra6 Nutrition Melatonin + Valerian Drops – Best Liquid Formula
Why it stands out: This liquid formula combines valerian root with melatonin, 5-HTP, and passion flower for a multi-pathway approach to sleep. The dropper delivery allows for precise dosing and significantly faster absorption than capsules.
Ultra6’s liquid blend targets multiple sleep mechanisms simultaneously. Valerian promotes physical and mental relaxation, melatonin signals your body’s internal clock that it’s time for sleep, 5-HTP supports serotonin production (a precursor to both melatonin and mood-regulating neurotransmitters), and passion flower calms racing thoughts that keep you awake. This multi-pathway approach means multiple opportunities for the formula to help you sleep.
The liquid form bypasses much of the digestive process for quicker onset—typically 15-30 minutes versus 45-60 minutes for capsules. Simply place the drops under your tongue for fastest absorption, or mix into water or herbal tea if you prefer. The dropper allows you to adjust your dose based on how you’re feeling: less on easy nights, more when sleep seems impossible.
The 60-serving bottle provides about 2 months of use at the standard dose, though actual duration depends on your individual dosing needs. The taste is herbal and somewhat bitter—common for liquid valerian products—but can be masked by mixing with juice or tea.
Pros:
- Fast-absorbing liquid delivery (15-30 min onset)
- Multi-ingredient synergistic formula
- Precise dosing with calibrated dropper
- Works through multiple sleep pathways
- Adjustable dosing for different needs
Cons:
- Contains melatonin (not ideal for everyone)
- Strong herbal taste may be unpleasant
- Requires refrigeration after opening
Best for: People who have trouble swallowing pills or want faster-acting sleep support with multiple complementary ingredients.
5. WellPath Rest Valerian Root Sleep Aid – Best Multi-Ingredient Blend
Why it stands out: WellPath combines valerian with a comprehensive blend of proven sleep ingredients including melatonin, L-theanine, 5-HTP, lemon balm, and chamomile for well-rounded nighttime support that addresses multiple aspects of sleep difficulty.
This formula takes a comprehensive approach to sleep by combining six key ingredients that work synergistically through different mechanisms. Valerian and chamomile provide traditional herbal relaxation and have been paired together for centuries in European sleep remedies. L-theanine (found naturally in green tea) promotes alpha brain waves associated with calm alertness during your wind-down period—helping you relax without sedation. The amino acid 5-HTP supports production of serotonin and melatonin, while supplemental melatonin helps regulate your circadian rhythm.
WellPath uses an “extra strength” formulation with meaningful doses of each ingredient, not just label decoration. The lemon balm extract adds gentle anxiety-reducing properties that complement valerian’s effects. Users frequently report that this combination helps with both falling asleep and staying asleep through the night.
The 60-count bottle provides a full month’s supply at the recommended 2-capsule dose. WellPath has built a solid reputation for their stress and sleep supplements, with this product accumulating thousands of positive reviews from users who’ve tried multiple sleep aids.
Pros:
- Comprehensive 6-ingredient sleep blend
- Clinically-studied ingredients at meaningful doses
- Includes popular ingredients like L-theanine and chamomile
- Extra strength formulation
- Strong brand reputation for quality
Cons:
- Contains melatonin (may cause vivid dreams or grogginess)
- Complex formula may not suit purists
- Higher price than single-ingredient options
Best for: Those who want an all-in-one sleep supplement that addresses multiple aspects of sleep quality and don’t mind melatonin.
6. Superior Source Super Slumber Helper – Best Sublingual Option
Why it stands out: These instant-dissolve tablets bypass the digestive system by absorbing directly under your tongue. The formula combines valerian with melatonin, L-theanine, chamomile, and GABA for comprehensive sleep support.
Superior Source’s MicroLingual technology allows the tablets to dissolve in seconds without water, making them perfect for travel or late-night use when you don’t want to get up for a glass of water. The sublingual delivery means active ingredients enter your bloodstream faster, potentially reducing the time to feel effects. Each bottle contains 90 tablets—a 3-month supply at the standard dose.
Pros:
- Instant-dissolve sublingual tablets
- No water needed—perfect for travel
- Multi-ingredient calming formula
- 90-tablet bottle (3-month supply)
Cons:
- Lower valerian dose than standalone products
- Contains multiple ingredients (not pure valerian)
Best for: Frequent travelers or anyone who prefers not to swallow capsules and wants fast-acting convenience.
7. Snap Supplements Natural Sleep Aid – Best for Beginners
Why it stands out: This straightforward formula combines valerian root with melatonin in a clean, easy-to-understand supplement. It’s a great starting point for those new to herbal sleep aids.
Snap Supplements keeps things simple: valerian for herbal relaxation and melatonin for sleep-cycle support. The moderate doses make this formula approachable for first-timers who may be sensitive to higher-potency products. The company emphasizes quality sourcing and third-party testing. With 60 capsules per bottle, you get a full month of nightly use.
Pros:
- Simple, beginner-friendly formula
- Moderate dosing less likely to cause grogginess
- Supports relaxation and sleep cycles
- Clean ingredient list
Cons:
- Not as potent as specialized formulas
- May not be strong enough for chronic sleep issues
Best for: Those trying valerian for the first time who want a gentle introduction without overwhelming their system.
8. Liposomal Kava + Valerian Drops – Best for Stress + Sleep
Why it stands out: This unique liquid formula combines valerian with kava—a traditional Pacific Island herb renowned for its calming properties—plus magnesium, passionflower, and L-theanine for stress relief that transitions into restful sleep.
The liposomal delivery system encapsulates active ingredients in tiny fat bubbles, improving absorption significantly over standard liquids. Kava addresses anxiety and muscle tension, while valerian promotes sleepiness—a powerful combination for those whose sleep issues stem from stress. The formula also includes chamomile and milk thistle for additional calming and liver support. The dropper allows you to adjust your dose based on stress levels.
Pros:
- Liposomal delivery for enhanced absorption
- Addresses both stress and sleep
- Includes kava for anti-anxiety support
- Customizable dosing with dropper
Cons:
- Kava shouldn’t be used long-term or with alcohol
- More expensive than basic valerian
Best for: People whose sleep problems are primarily driven by stress, anxiety, or an inability to mentally unwind.
9. Vitamatic Melatonin + Valerian – Best Budget Option
Why it stands out: At 120 tablets per bottle with both melatonin (10mg) and valerian root extract (250mg 4:1), this formula delivers serious value for budget-conscious shoppers.
Vitamatic’s combination tablet pairs a higher-dose melatonin (10mg) with a concentrated 4:1 valerian extract equivalent to 1,000mg of root. This dual-action approach works on both your circadian rhythm and relaxation response. The 120-count bottle provides 4 months of nightly use at an extremely competitive price point. If you already know you respond well to melatonin and want to add valerian’s benefits, this is the most economical way to get both.
Pros:
- Excellent price per serving
- 4-month supply per bottle
- Combines melatonin with concentrated valerian
- Convenient tablet form
Cons:
- High melatonin dose (10mg) may be too much for some
- Not ideal for those avoiding melatonin
Best for: Budget shoppers who want both melatonin and valerian in a single, affordable supplement.
10. Zentastic Sleep Aid – Best Melatonin-Free Complex
Why it stands out: For those who want comprehensive sleep support without melatonin, Zentastic delivers valerian alongside Suntheanine (a premium L-theanine), magnesium, and other calming herbs in a non-habit-forming formula.
This thoughtfully formulated blend avoids melatonin while still providing multiple pathways to better sleep. Suntheanine is a patented form of L-theanine shown to promote alpha brain waves associated with relaxation. Magnesium supports muscle relaxation and nervous system calm. The herbal blend rounds out the formula with valerian and other traditional sleep herbs. Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility.
Pros:
- No melatonin—won’t disrupt natural production
- Uses premium Suntheanine L-theanine
- Includes magnesium for relaxation
- Non-habit forming formula
Cons:
- Premium ingredients mean higher price
- 60-count provides only 1-month supply
Best for: Anyone who experiences melatonin side effects (vivid dreams, next-day grogginess) but still wants multi-ingredient sleep support.
What is Valerian Root and Who Should Take It?
Valerian root comes from the Valeriana officinalis plant, a flowering perennial native to Europe and Asia that has been used medicinally for over 2,000 years. Ancient Greeks and Romans used it to treat insomnia, nervousness, and headaches. The name “valerian” comes from the Latin word “valere,” meaning “to be strong” or “to be healthy.”
The root contains several compounds that interact with your nervous system, most notably valerenic acid and valepotriates. These compounds work on GABA receptors in your brain—the same neurotransmitter system targeted by prescription sleep medications like benzodiazepines, but with a much gentler effect. Valerian appears to increase GABA availability rather than directly mimicking it, resulting in calming effects without the heavy sedation or dependency risks of pharmaceutical options.
Unlike melatonin, which works primarily on your circadian rhythm to signal “time for sleep,” valerian promotes relaxation and reduces the time it takes to transition from wakefulness to sleep. This makes valerian particularly helpful for those who experience racing thoughts at bedtime, physical tension that prevents relaxation, anxiety-driven sleep difficulties, or sensitivity to melatonin’s side effects like vivid dreams or morning grogginess.
Valerian may also benefit shift workers whose sleep schedules vary, people transitioning off prescription sleep aids (with medical supervision), those seeking non-habit-forming sleep support, and anyone who prefers plant-based supplements over synthetic compounds.
How to Choose the Right Valerian Supplement
Key Ingredients to Look For
Pure valerian supplements should contain standardized root extract, ideally with verified valerenic acid content of at least 0.8% (the compound most strongly linked to sleep benefits). Extract ratios like 4:1 or 10:1 indicate concentration levels—a 4:1 extract means 4 pounds of raw root were used to make 1 pound of extract, delivering more active compounds per capsule. Higher ratios generally mean more potent products, but quality of the source material matters as much as concentration.
If choosing a blend, look for complementary ingredients with research-backed benefits: L-theanine (100-200mg) promotes alpha brain waves associated with calm alertness, magnesium glycinate or bisglycinate (200-400mg) supports muscle relaxation and nervous system function, chamomile extract provides gentle sedative effects, passionflower helps quiet racing thoughts, and GABA (though absorption is debated) may enhance relaxation. Avoid formulas that pile on ingredients at sub-therapeutic doses—this “pixie dusting” makes labels look impressive but doesn’t deliver results.
Forms Compared
Capsules offer precise dosing and effectively mask valerian’s notorious odor but take 30-60 minutes to work as they must dissolve and pass through your digestive system. Standard capsules work well for most people with healthy digestion. Soft gels may absorb slightly faster due to their liquid interior.
Liquid drops and tinctures absorb faster (15-30 minutes) since they can enter your bloodstream through mouth tissue and don’t require full digestion. They allow flexible dosing—you can take less on good nights, more on tough nights. The trade-off is a pronounced bitter, earthy taste that some find objectionable. Alcohol-based tinctures are more shelf-stable; glycerin-based are alcohol-free but may be less potent.
Sublingual tablets dissolve quickly under your tongue, bypassing digestion entirely for potentially faster effects. They’re convenient for travel and late-night use when you don’t want to get up for water. However, they typically contain lower doses and may include sweeteners to improve taste.
Teas provide a ritualistic wind-down experience that may itself promote relaxation, but offer the least standardized dosing since steep time, water temperature, and root quality vary widely. Consider tea as a complement to, rather than replacement for, standardized supplements.
What to Avoid
Skip products that don’t list extract ratios or standardization information—without this data, you can’t compare potency or know what you’re getting. Be wary of “proprietary blends” that list multiple ingredients but hide individual amounts, making it impossible to assess whether you’re getting therapeutic doses.
Avoid formulas with excessive fillers like maltodextrin, silicon dioxide, or artificial colors. Watch for magnesium stearate listed as a primary ingredient (small amounts as a flow agent are fine). Be cautious of unrealistic marketing claims like “fall asleep in 5 minutes” or “guaranteed results”—no supplement works instantly or for everyone.
Products priced dramatically below competitors may indicate quality issues, sourcing from unreliable regions, or inadequate testing. The lowest-price option isn’t always the best value if it doesn’t actually work.
Side Effects and Precautions
Valerian is generally well-tolerated by most adults when used at recommended doses for up to 4-6 weeks. The most common side effects are mild and include headache (especially when first starting), digestive upset like nausea or stomach cramps, dizziness, and occasionally vivid or strange dreams. Some users report feeling “hungover” or foggy the morning after, though this is less common than with melatonin or pharmaceutical sleep aids.
Interestingly, a small percentage of people experience the opposite of the intended effect—feeling stimulated or restless rather than relaxed. This paradoxical response appears to be related to individual biochemistry and is more common at higher doses. If valerian makes you feel wired, it’s simply not the right herb for you.
The distinctive smell of valerian—often compared to dirty socks, old cheese, or wet dog—is actually a sign of quality. This odor comes from isovaleric acid and other volatile compounds that form when the root is dried and indicate the presence of active ingredients. Odorless valerian products may have been over-processed or degraded. The smell can be minimized by storing capsules in a cool, dark place and swallowing them quickly with plenty of water.
To minimize stomach upset, take valerian with a small snack rather than on a completely empty stomach. Start with a lower dose and increase gradually over several days to assess your tolerance.
Do not take valerian if you are: pregnant or breastfeeding (safety not established), taking prescription sedatives, benzodiazepines, or barbiturates (risk of excessive sedation), using anti-anxiety medications like alprazolam or buspirone, scheduled for surgery within two weeks (may prolong sedation effects of anesthesia), drinking alcohol (enhanced sedation), or have liver disease (valerian is metabolized by the liver). Always inform your healthcare provider about any supplements you take, including valerian, especially before medical procedures or when starting new medications.
FAQs
How much valerian root should I take for sleep?
Most studies use 300-900mg of valerian extract taken 30 minutes to 2 hours before bedtime. Start with a lower dose (300-450mg) and increase if needed. Concentrated extracts (4:1 or 10:1) deliver more active compounds per milligram, so check whether the label lists raw root or extract equivalent.
How long does valerian take to work?
Unlike melatonin, which often works the first night, valerian may require 2-4 weeks of consistent use before you notice significant improvements. Some people feel relaxed within an hour of their first dose, while others need time for the compounds to build up in their system.
Can I take valerian every night?
Valerian is generally considered safe for nightly use for up to 4-6 weeks. However, it’s best to take periodic breaks (a few days off every few weeks) to prevent tolerance. If you need sleep support beyond 6 weeks, consult your healthcare provider to rule out underlying sleep disorders.
Does valerian cause morning grogginess?
Unlike some sleep aids, valerian rarely causes next-day drowsiness at normal doses. In fact, this is one of its main advantages over melatonin for some users. If you do experience grogginess, try reducing your dose or taking it earlier in the evening.
Can I combine valerian with melatonin?
Yes, many supplements combine both, and the two work through different mechanisms. Melatonin signals your body it’s time for sleep (circadian rhythm), while valerian promotes relaxation. However, combining them may increase sedation, so start with low doses of each and don’t drive until you know how the combination affects you.
Why does valerian smell so bad?
The pungent, almost cheese-like odor comes from isovaleric acid and other volatile compounds that form when valerian root is dried. This smell is actually a quality indicator—odorless valerian products may have lost potency or been heavily processed. The good news: capsules mask the smell, and there’s no taste when swallowed whole.
Final Verdict
For pure, high-potency valerian without additives, Zazzee USDA Organic Valerian Root delivers the best combination of quality, potency, and value with its 10:1 extract and 4-month supply. If budget is your priority, NOW Foods Valerian Root offers reliable quality from a trusted brand at an unbeatable price.
For those who want a comprehensive sleep formula, WellPath Rest combines valerian with L-theanine, chamomile, and other proven ingredients. And if you prefer to avoid melatonin entirely, Zentastic Sleep Aid provides multi-ingredient support using premium Suntheanine and magnesium alongside valerian. Whichever you choose, give it 2-4 weeks of consistent use before judging its effectiveness.
