Sleep deprivation and poor sleep quality can significantly impair quality of life and overall well-being. Although melatonin is one of the most commonly used supplements for improving sleep, concerns about potential side effects and long-term safety have encouraged the search for alternative solutions. Recent research has highlighted valerian (Valeriana officinalis) extract as a promising plant-based ingredient for sleep support. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated the effects of a standardized valerian extract on acute sleep deprivation, demonstrating improvements in sleep latency, actual sleep time, and sleep efficiency after a single dose. Beyond sleep support, valerian has a long history in traditional medicine and contains multiple bioactive compounds that may contribute to sedative, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective effects. This article reviews the clinical evidence, active compounds, traditional uses, and expanding commercial applications of valerian extract across health, fragrance, cosmetic, and pet care industries.
Valerian Extract Shows Benefits for Acute Sleep Deprivation
Insufficient sleep or poor sleep quality can significantly reduce quality of life and overall well-being. Melatonin is currently one of the most commonly used supplements for improving sleep. However, because it may cause side effects such as headaches and vomiting and may present potential risks to the cardiovascular and metabolic systems, long-term use is generally not recommended.
In October 2024, OmniActive Health Technologies, a health ingredient supplier from India, launched Sleeproot in the European market. This ingredient is designed to support sleep and stress management and consists of a plant-based, melatonin-free valerian extract (VE) standardized to contain 2% total valerenic acids. In addition, OmniActive Health Technologies, in collaboration with BGS Global Institute of Medical Sciences, published a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in the journal Advances in Complementary & Alternative Medicine, verifying the efficacy of VE in improving acute sleep deprivation.
Valerian root extract has long been recognized for its sedative properties, its ability to relieve anxiety, and its potential to improve sleep quality. In the study, 80 participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio. Each participant took one capsule containing either VE (200 mg) or a placebo (microcrystalline cellulose) one hour before bedtime daily.
Sleep parameters—including sleep latency, actual sleep time, and sleep efficiency—were evaluated using wrist actigraphy devices. After just one day of VE supplementation, participants showed an average reduction in sleep latency of 27.5%, an increase in actual sleep time of 6.8%, and an improvement in sleep efficiency of 2.9%.
Adv Complement Altern Med
The results demonstrated that actual sleep time improved significantly after a single dose, suggesting that valerian may provide acute benefits for sleep. The findings also indicate that VE has the potential to serve as an alternative to melatonin.
A Traditional Herbal Remedy with Calming Properties
Valerian is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Valerianaceae family and the genus Valeriana. Its rhizomes are short and hollow, with numerous slender fibrous roots. The plant produces terminal inflorescences with light purplish-red or white flowers and a strong aroma. According to Chinese Materia Medica, valerian typically grows in mild and humid environments and is associated with the heart and liver meridians. It has traditionally been used to calm the mind, dispel wind-dampness, promote circulation of qi and blood, and relieve pain, and has been applied in the management of insomnia, depression, and anxiety. Historical records in Li Shizhen’s Compendium of Materia Medica from the Ming Dynasty also describe valerian as having properties that “calm the mind and promote the circulation of qi and blood,” indicating that it has been widely used in traditional medicine in China for centuries.
The main active compounds in valerian include valepotriates, valerosides, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), alkaloids, and flavonoids. These compounds may act synergistically, contributing to valerian’s sedative, hypnotic, anti-anxiety, antidepressant, memory-enhancing, and analgesic effects.
1) Valepotriates
Valepotriates are among the most important active compounds in valerian. They exert sedative and stress-relieving effects by binding to GABA-A receptors in the brain, thereby helping to improve sleep and relieve symptoms such as insomnia and frequent dreaming.
2) Valerenic Acids
Valerenic acids are compounds extracted from the dried roots and rhizomes of valerian. They exhibit inhibitory effects on the central nervous system by increasing chloride ion influx mediated by GABA-A receptors, thereby helping regulate neurotransmitter balance and improving symptoms such as insomnia and vivid dreaming. Valerenic acids also demonstrate certain antibacterial properties.
3) Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)
GABA is an important inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and is widely present in vertebrates, plants, and microorganisms. Studies suggest that the intake of appropriate amounts of GABA may help improve sleep quality and support blood pressure regulation.
4) Alkaloids
Alkaloids in valerian may promote the synthesis and release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, increasing their activity and thereby producing anti-anxiety effects. These compounds may help relieve various discomforts associated with psychological stress, such as nervousness and restlessness.
5) Flavonoids
Flavonoids found in valerian include glycosides such as apigenin and acacetin. These compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammatory responses and oxidative stress caused by tissue damage, thereby alleviating pain.
Expanding Applications of Valerian Extract
According to SPINS data, in the 52 weeks ending December 31, 2023, total sales of herbal supplements in the United States reached approximately $12.551 billion. Sales performance of valerian supplements differed between mainstream and natural retail channels. In mainstream channels, valerian supplement sales reached approximately $18.29 million, ranking 26th, representing a year-over-year decline of 12.5%. However, in natural channels, valerian sales reached about $7.10 million, ranking 21st, with a year-over-year increase of 5.4%. These differences may be related to fluctuations in overall herbal supplement sales in the United States since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019.
Currently, valerian extract is used across a wide range of industries. In addition to dietary supplements, it has expanded into pharmaceutical, cosmetic, fragrance, and pet care applications.
1) Health and Nutritional Applications
In the health supplement and pharmaceutical industries, valerian has become a highly valued “star ingredient.” In pharmaceutical applications, valerian extract is used for its notable sedative, calming, and antidepressant properties in the treatment of insomnia, anxiety, depression, and other psychological or neurological conditions. In the dietary supplement sector, valerian extract is commonly included in formulations designed to improve sleep quality, relieve stress, and support immune health. However, it has not yet been approved for use in foods in mainland China.
2) Fragrance and Flavor Industry
In the fragrance industry, valerian is valued for its distinctive and intriguing aroma. Its scent combines subtle earthy notes with rich floral undertones, creating a calming and comforting sensory experience. Valerian essential oil and related products are used in perfumes, aromatherapy products, and scented candles.
3) Cosmetic Applications
The antioxidant and anti-aging properties of valerian extract make it an attractive ingredient in skincare formulations, where it may help slow skin aging and improve skin texture. In addition, its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it suitable for products designed for sensitive skin, helping to soothe irritation and promote skin health.
4) Pet Care Market
Dried fresh valerian has a strong and distinctive aroma and can serve as an alternative to catnip. It can also be combined with natural ingredients such as chamomile to produce chewable tablets or drops designed to relieve anxiety and improve sleep in pets.
