Both melatonin and valerian root are commonly used for their relaxing properties. Both are also known as natural sleep aids. However, they have differences in how they work and how to use them most effectively. Valerian Root and Melatonin act as natural relaxants, helping reduce stress, strain, and anxiety. In addition, Valerian Root is used for insomnia and is often taken for its sedative properties.
What is Melatonin?
Melatonin is responsible for regulating your sleep cycle and regulates your body temperature at the same time. Melatonin levels are naturally higher in the evening and lower in the morning.
This is why taking a sleep aid at night is often recommended. Melatonin is also available as a supplement, which can be helpful for those who struggle with sleep. Studies have shown that Melatonin is effective as a sleep aid for many people. It is non-addictive, inexpensive, and has no side effects. It is also believed to be safe for long-term use.
What is Valerian Root?
Valerian root is a herb that is native to Europe and Asia. It has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries and is often used as a natural sleep aid because of its sedative properties.
Valerian root is generally available in powdered form, taken as a tea, or mixed with other drinks. It is also available in capsule form, which can be taken anytime during the day.
How Valerian Root Works
Valerian root works as a sedative. It is believed that the chemicals in the root cause changes in brain chemistry that reduce stress and help the body to relax. For the root to be effective, it must be taken daily. It is believed that it is most effective when taken for at least 2 weeks.
In this sense, it is similar to the hormone melatonin, which is commonly mistaken as a natural sleep aid. It takes at least 2 weeks of consistent nightly use before it begins to exert its effects. Valerian root is often combined with other herbs, such as kava and hops, when sold.
Valerian Root Special Considerations Valerian root has been interested in the medical community for centuries. Some people claim that it makes them feel like they are drugged, while others claim that it helps them restful sleep.
Before you begin taking valerian root, there are some things you should keep in mind:
- Do not take in higher amounts based solely on the recommendation of a friend or family member since this herb may not be effective in larger doses
- The quality of the valerian root should be checked before consumption.
- Look for pure valerian root powder rather than a commercially prepared product
- Regular users usually report positive results when taking less than 5 grams daily, but recommended dosages vary greatly from one person to another and should be consulted by a professional.
- Avoid taking more than one hour before bed as this may lead to a supplement over-accumulation causing insomnia.
Certain brands of valerian root may be contaminated with heavy metals, so it is suggested that you invest in a name brand.
Similarities Between Melatonin and Valerian Root
- Both melatonin and valerian root are used as a natural sleep aid, either taken in pill form or tea form.
- Both are used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and other sleep disorders.
- Both are safe and non-habit forming. Both are used to help regulate sleep patterns.
- Both are often used with other natural sleep aids such as St. John’s wort to treat insomnia.
- Both should not be snorted, ingested, or used in any place where other medical products are used.
Differences Between Melatonin and Valerian Root
- Melatonin is available over the counter. Valerian root must be purchased as a prescription.
- Valerian root bark has been used for much longer. Meanwhile, Melatonin was hyper-dosed less than twenty years ago.
- Valerian root usually is darker in color and doesn’t have a medicinal taste, while Melatonin is odorless.
How to Use Melatonin
Melatonin is best used at night before bedtime. Before taking any sleep aid, it’s important to consult with a doctor. You should discuss any health issues you have, any medications you are taking, and any allergies you have.
While Melatonin is generally safe, it is always important to talk to a doctor first. They can help you determine the best dose for you and help you decide when is the best time to take it.
The best way to take Melatonin for sleep is to follow this schedule:
- Take the Melatonin about an hour before bedtime.
- Avoid eating, drinking, or exercising for at least 2 hours after taking the Melatonin.
- Avoid taking Melatonin if you have a history of depression.
How to Use Valerian Root
You can make a tea out of the root, add it to another liquid like water or juice, or take it in supplemental form.
Always follow the instructions carefully, as they vary from brand to brand.
Pros of Melatonin
Melatonin helps to regulate your sleep cycle. It has been used for centuries in many cultures. The pineal gland naturally produces melatonin in your brain. This hormone is also found in many foods, such as bananas, tomatoes, and walnuts. In the United States, Melatonin is available as an over-the-counter supplement.
Following are some advantages of melatonin:
- It helps normalize your sleep-wake cycle.
- It relieves jet lag or very confused body clocks.
- It promotes sleepiness, which is helpful if you have trouble falling asleep at night.
- It is easily available and inexpensive
- It increases the amount of dark, healthy sleep you get.
There are no known chances of Melatonin, but you should always talk to your physician before taking any supplements.
It is essential to talk about it with your physician before taking any supplements or medications. However, when using supplements such as Melatonin, exercise and a proper diet are very important to get the best out of what you take.
Cons of Melatonin
- The hormone Melatonin alters some brain chemistry, and temporarily lower levels of other hormones, such as serotonin and prolactin, can contribute to insomnia.
Pros of Valerian Root
- Valerian root has long been used to relieve anxiety and help you achieve better sleep.
- Valerian roots are available in pill and liquid extract form.
- Valerian root is one of the most potent essential oils used to label health or treat any disease or mental health problem on its own.
- It exhibits sedative effects on the central and peripheral nervous system with improved memory, improves concentration and attention span, reduces stress without affecting alertness levels with significant changes in mood, and can manage mood disorders like depression, bipolar disorder, etc.
Cons of the Valerian Root..
- It does not have extensive human or animal studies supporting its work.
- Some find that it only works for one type of anxiety when they have another.
For some, it may only work at a partial rate.
Why take Melatonin and valerian root together?
Melatonin and valerian root are both effective in treating sleep disorders, and both are natural sleep aids.
Melatonin is effective in treating sleep disorders but less effective in treating anxiety. And valerian root is effective in treating anxiety, but it is less effective in treating sleep disorders. You may want to take Melatonin and valerian root together for the best sleep aid for your needs.
Talk to a doctor before taking melatonin and valerian root together. They can help you determine which sleep aid is best for your needs. It is important to take both at the right times and in the right amounts.
Melatonin and valerian root are both effective natural sleep aids. Melatonin is taken before bedtime, while valerian root is taken throughout the day. Both melatonin and valerian root are generally safe and non-addictive and are great for treating insomnia, anxiety, and other sleep disorders. Taking Melatonin and valerian root properly is important to get the best results.