Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#humans #phytotherapy #plant-extracts #plant-roots #sleep-initiation-and-maintenance-disorders

Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Bent et al., 2006 | Am J Med | Meta Analysis

Citation

Bent Stephen, Padula Amy, ... Mehling Wolf. Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Med. 2006-Dec;119(12):1005-12

Abstract

Insomnia affects approximately one-third of the adult population and contributes to increased rates of absenteeism, health care use, and social disability. Extracts of the roots of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) are widely used for inducing sleep and improving sleep quality. A systematic review of randomized, placebo-controlled trials of valerian for improving sleep quality is presented. An extensive literature search identified 16 eligible studies examining a total of 1093 patients. Most studies had significant methodologic problems, and the valerian doses, preparations, and length of treatment varied considerably. A dichotomous outcome of sleep quality (improved or not) was reported by 6 studies and showed a statistically significant benefit (relative risk of improved sleep = 1.8, 95% confidence interval, 1.2-2.9), but there was evidence of publication bias in this summary measure. The available evidence suggests that valerian might improve sleep quality without producing side effects. Future studies should assess a range of doses of standardized preparations of valerian and include standard measures of sleep quality and safety.

Key Findings

Future studies should assess a range of doses of standardized preparations of valerian and include standard measures of sleep quality and safety.

Outcomes Measured

  • sleep quality

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 1093
Age Range See abstract
Condition insomnia

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Phytotherapy
  • Plant Extracts
  • Plant Roots
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders
  • Valerian

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: valerian-sleep

Provenance

  • PMID: 17145239
  • DOI: (not available)
  • PMCID: PMC4394901
  • Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09