Valerian root guarantees a restful night's sleep
6.0Moderate
evidence
evidence
The Claim
Many people believe that taking valerian root will automatically ensure a deep and restful sleep without fail. It is often marketed as a natural sleep aid that can replace conventional sleep medications entirely.
Origin
This myth likely originates from traditional use and anecdotal reports, as well as marketing claims by supplement manufacturers emphasizing its sleep-inducing properties.
What Science Says
Research, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses, shows mixed results. Some studies suggest a modest improvement in sleep quality, while others find no significant effect compared to placebo. A 2020 meta-analysis concluded that valerian might have a small benefit, but results across studies are inconsistent.
Verdict
Partially True