Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Perennial herb whose pungent root has served as a sleep aid since classical antiquity, though modern trial evidence remains mixed.

Core Principles & Analysis

• Valerenic acid modulates GABA-A receptors, the proposed mechanism of its sedative effect.
• Prescribed for insomnia by Galen in the 2nd century AD.
• Systematic reviews report inconsistent effects on objectively measured sleep quality.

Specifications & Metrics

• ACTIVE COMPOUNDS: Valerenic acid, valepotriates