Valerian has been used as an herbal sleep aid for decades. It’s a root and has a characteristic smell of old socks, coming from isovaleric acid. While valerian helps occasional sleeplessness, it’s also very helpful when taken long-term.
Many studies have demonstrated that the valerien root is an as extremely safe and effective way to get your body to relax and go to sleep. Those that have taken valerian remark that they feel less nervous and anxious, and sleep better.
Valerian is believed to be a better sleep aid than prescription medications because of it’s lack of side effects. Many prescriptions have a negative effect on concentration and alertness, while valerian does not.