TimingValerian Root

Best before bed

When to take Valerian Root

30 to 60 minutes before bed

Valerian root has been used for centuries for sleep and nervousness. It works best taken regularly, 30–60 minutes before bed.

Updated 2026-10-25

Best time in your day

  1. Wake
  2. Workout
  3. Breakfast
  4. Lunch
  5. Evening
  6. Workout
  7. Dinner
  8. Walk
  9. Bed
When
30–60 minutes before bed
Food
With or without food
Typical dose
300–600 mg extract

How to take it

  1. 1Take it 30–60 minutes before bed
  2. 2Use it nightly for 2–4 weeks for the best effect
  3. 3Avoid alcohol
  4. 4Don't drive if you feel drowsy

Watch out

Stop gradually after long use, and avoid it in pregnancy. Rare liver problems have been reported.

Keep apart from

  • Sedatives and sleeping pills
  • Alcohol
  • Drugs metabolised by the liver

Common questions

Why does it smell?

Valerian root has a strong earthy smell; capsules help.

Is it addictive?

It's not considered habit-forming.

Can I take it with melatonin?

Use caution; start with low doses.

Explore further

Commonly used for

Sources

  1. NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Valerian

SYNC check

Get your timing plan

Tell us what you take and we'll arrange it into a simple daily routine.

Build my routine

For general education only, not medical advice. Talk to a qualified doctor before starting or changing supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or on medication.