Valerian Root vs Melatonin
Valerian Root vs Melatonin
Valerian root and melatonin are two of the most common natural supplements for sleep in world. They both affect the body in different ways which is why some users swear by valerian, whereas others say that melatonin is a must-have for sleep. In this article we discuss valerian root vs melatonin including the differences and similarities between the two.
What is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a hormone naturally made by your body and is produced in the brain by the pineal gland and is also found in others areas of the body like the eyes, gut, and bone marrow. Melatonin is commonly referred to as the "sleep hormone" because having high levels can help you fall asleep and stay asleep.
Melatonin Supplements
Melatonin supplements work together with your body's circadian rhythm—your body's internal clock and lets you know when it is time to sleep, wake up, and eat. People who don't get enough or have high enough levels of melatonin tend to have a difficult time getting to sleep and staying asleep.
In addition to helping regulate your body's circadian rhythm, temperature, and blood pressure there are a few additional health benefits of melatonin. This includes:
- May help improve sleep quality and duration
- Can help with seasonal depression
- May increase HGH (human growth hormone) levels
- Can benefit stomach ulcers
- May help with jet lag
Side Effects of Melatonin
Melatonin is an all-natural, safe, and non-addictive sleep supplement. Side effects can include sleeplessness and possible nausea. When taken with lower doses (0.5 mg - 5 mg), these symptoms are rare. Those who are on blood thinners or blood pressure medication should speak with their doctor first beginning melatonin supplements.
How Much Melatonin Should I Take?
The Sleep Foundation states, "There is no official recommended dosage of melatonin for adults, however, a range of 0.5 milligram to 5 milligrams (5 mg) appears to be safe and effective."
What is Valerian Root?
Valerian root is an herb native to Asia and Europe and has been around since ancient times to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Valerian has a unique interaction with GABA, a chemical messenger that helps regulate nerve impulses in both your brain and nervous system. Research shows that valerian can inhibit the breakdown of GABA in the brain leading to increased feelings of calmness.
Valerian Root Supplements
Valerian root supplements contain a number of compounds and antioxidants that help promote sleep, ease restlessness, and reduce anxiety. Antioxidants are compounds that prevent damage to cells caused by free radicals. The typical dosage of valerian ranges from 300 mg to 900 mg taken once or twice daily.
Side Effects of Valerian
For the most part, valerian has shown to be incredibly safe for most individuals. There have been very few serious side effects reported and interestingly enough, the most common reported side effects actually involved people who took a placebo pill.
- Vivid dreams
- Upset stomach
- Headache
- Heart palpitations
Young children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid use or contact their doctor before first.
Can You Take Valerian Root and Melatonin Together?
Yes, melatonin can be taken simultaneously with valerian root for an even better night of sleep. One is a hormone naturally made by your body (melatonin) and the other is an herbal supplement (valerian root). Easy Sleep is an all-natural sleep supplement developed by doctors and neuroscientists made with a unique blend of stress-relieving botanicals like valerian root, L-theanine, and passionflower, and the optimal dose of melatonin (2.5 mg).
You can shop Easy Sleep here.
Summary
Melatonin and valerian are two of the most effective and time-tested natural sleep aids. They can be taken together or separate and they both impact the body in different ways. One is an herbal supplement (valerian) and the other is a natural hormone that your body produces (melatonin).
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