For centuries, people have turned to the valerian root to promote relaxation and ensure a good night’s sleep without the use of medication. This flowering herb grows in Europe, North America and Asia and is often sold in the form of tea bags or capsules.
Unlike some traditional medicines, valerian root has been popular for many years, which means there is a ton of research to consider before making a purchase. If you want a supplement that is both potent and affordable, check out Now Foods Valerian Root Herbal Supplement.
Valerian is a flowering plant that is commonly found in herbal remedies and stress support supplements. Since ancient Greece and Rome, practitioners of traditional medicine have used the roots of the valerian plant as a treatment for insomnia and anxiety. While modern medicine has trouble explaining exactly how the remedy works, some scientists believe it increases the amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid in your brain. This chemical, otherwise known as GABA, promotes a feeling of calm and may even have a sedative effect in high doses.
When dried and prepared into a tea or capsule, the root has a distinct smell that many people find unpleasant. To make it more appealing, many companies may add ingredients like rose hips or cinnamon to herbal blends containing valerian root.
While scientists generally agree that valerian root is effective as a natural sleep aid, there is some evidence that the herb could contain additional benefits. Always talk with your doctor before treating yourself with an herbal remedy, particularly if you’re already taking prescription medication.
Despite the purported benefits of taking valerian root supplements, there are some potential side effects to consider. Headaches, dizziness and an upset stomach could occur. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take valerian root supplements. It is considered rare, but there have also been reports of liver damage among people ingesting large amounts of valerian root.
Like most supplements and herbal remedies, valerian root can appear in a wide variety of different forms, including capsules and powders. It is also commonly sold in the form of tea bags or dried leaves that can be brewed with a strainer. Keep in mind that many people do not enjoy the smell of valerian root tea, and you won’t receive as many of the purported benefits because you are ingesting an infusion rather than the actual plant.
If you do decide to purchase a valerian root supplement in the form of a tea, look for a blend that includes other flavors like chamomile or lavender. This will improve the taste and might even add additional relaxation benefits.
The recommended dosage can vary widely, but the majority of valerian root supplements contain about 300-600 milligrams per serving. Others may contain 1,000 milligrams or more.
The cost of a valerian root supplement typically depends on the dosage and how many servings are included in a container. A bottle of capsules is usually around $5-$25, while a box of valerian root tea bags is typically $5-$10.
A. For best results, take a valerian root about 1-2 hours before bedtime. Keep in mind that it may take a few weeks before you feel the effects.
A. The strong, unpleasant smell of valerian root actually occurs because of the same oils that are responsible for its sleep benefits.
Now Foods Valerian Root Herbal Supplement
What you need to know: Manufactured by a well-known supplement provider, these valerian capsules each contain 500 milligrams of the root.
What you’ll love: Now Foods uses an entirely vegan formula, and none of its supplements contain gluten or genetically modified organisms. Several users called this the best valerian supplement that they have ever tried.
What you should consider: A few people thought that these valerian capsules had an unpleasant taste.
Where to buy: Sold by iHerb
Tazo Tea Dream Herbal Tea Bags
What you need to know: These tea bags use a responsibly-sourced herbal blend to promote a healthy sleep cycle.
What you’ll love: The affordable herbal tea contains ingredients like chamomile flowers, lavender flowers, licorice root and natural almond flavor, resulting in a soothing blend that cuts through the distinct smell of valerian and promotes relaxation. One of these boxes contains 20 individual tea bags.
What you should consider: This valerian root tea is less potent than other herbal supplements.
Where to buy: Sold by iHerb
Nature’s Answer Valerian Fluid Extract
What you need to know: This liquid valerian root extract can be added to beverages without any unpleasant taste or smell.
What you’ll love: One serving contains 1,000 milligrams of valerian root extract, and the formula is alcohol-free and verified to contain no GMOs. The company’s proprietary cold extraction process results in a supplement that is very pure with no additives.
What you should consider: The bottle and accompanying dropper can leak if you aren’t careful, and one serving is 35 drops, which can be difficult to measure.
Where to buy: Sold by iHerb
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Patrick Farmer writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
