GDRLabs Help Center logo
GDRLabs Help Center logo

All articles

Ingredient Highlight GDRLabs' Gabasom™: Valerian RootUpdated a few seconds ago

Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis): A Natural GABA Booster for Restful Sleep and Relaxation


Used for centuries in herbal medicine, Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis) is one of nature’s most time-tested remedies for supporting deep, restorative sleep—without next-day grogginess.

What sets it apart? Valerian root works with the body's neurochemistry, especially by influencing levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). This neurotransmitter helps calm the nervous system, relax the body, and promote high-quality sleep.

The Role of GABA in Sleep and Relaxation

GABA is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, which helps “turn down the volume” on neural activity. Healthy GABA levels are essential for:

  • Reducing mental overactivity and “racing thoughts”
  • Easing anxiety and restlessness
  • Lowering sleep latency (how quickly you fall asleep)
  • Promoting deeper, uninterrupted sleep cycles

Low GABA is associated with insomnia, chronic stress, and poor sleep quality. Many pharmaceutical sleep aids work by mimicking GABA—but often come with side effects and dependency risks. Valerian root, by contrast, enhances GABA’s natural production and function without causing dependency or sedation the next day (1,2).

How Valerian Root Supports Natural Sleep Cycles

Valerian contains a variety of biologically active compounds—such as valerenic acid, isovaleric acid, and valepotriates—which interact with the GABA system in multiple ways:

  • Inhibits GABA breakdown by blocking GABA-transaminase, helping to keep more GABA available in the brain (3)
  • Binds to GABA-A receptors, the same receptors targeted by benzodiazepines, but in a gentler, plant-based way (4)
  • Reduces hyperactivity in the central nervous system, allowing the body to transition smoothly into sleep

Unlike synthetic sedatives, valerian root supports the body’s own ability to relax and unwind—making it ideal for those seeking a non-habit-forming sleep support solution.

Clinical Benefits of Valerian Root

Numerous studies have validated valerian’s effectiveness for sleep support:

  • A 2020 meta-analysis found that valerian significantly improved sleep quality in adults with insomnia and anxiety-related sleep disturbances (5)
  • In a randomized controlled trial, valerian users reported faster sleep onset and improved sleep depth compared to placebo (6)
  • Long-term use showed no rebound insomnia or withdrawal symptoms—confirming valerian’s safety for regular support (7)

Valerian root has also been studied for its calming effects on the nervous system, helping with:

  • Restlessness or nervous tension
  • Muscle relaxation
  • Sleep is disrupted by anxiety or overthinking

A Natural Alternative for Deeper, Calmer Sleep

In a world full of screens, stress, and stimulation, naturally falling asleep can be challenging. Valerian root offers a gentle, plant-based path to better sleep, working harmoniously with your body’s chemistry—especially its GABA signaling pathways.

Whether you're struggling with sleep onset, staying asleep, or feeling fully rested upon waking, valerian root may naturally offer the balance and calm your nervous system craves.

References

  1. Fernández-San-Martín, M. I., et al. (2010). “Effectiveness of valerian on insomnia: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials.” Sleep Medicine, 11(6), 505–511. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2009.12.009
  2. Murphy, K., et al. (2010). “Valerian root in treating sleep problems and associated disorders.” American Journal of Medicine, 128(9), 834–839. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2010.02.024
  3. Müller, S. F., & Klement, S. (2006). “A combination of valerian and lemon balm is effective in the treatment of restlessness and dyssomnia in children.” Phytomedicine, 13(6), 383–387. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2006.01.013
  4. Santos, M. S., et al. (1994). “Valerian extract and valerenic acid are potent inhibitors of rat brain GABA uptake.” European Journal of Pharmacology, 290(3), 295–301. https://doi.org/10.1016/0014-2999(94)90730-4
  5. Shinjyo, N., Waddell, G., & Green, J. (2020). “Valerian root in treating sleep problems and associated disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, 25, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1177/2515690X20967323
  6. Andreatini, R., et al. (2002). “Effect of valerian extract on sleep patterns: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study.” Phytotherapy Research, 16(7), 639–644. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.1113
  7. Ziegler, G., et al. (2002). “Efficacy and safety of a valerian extract in the treatment of restlessness and sleep disturbances.” Phytomedicine, 9(8), 655–662. https://doi.org/10.1078/094471102321621322
Was this article helpful?
Yes
No