Valerian/lemon balm use for sleep disorders during menopause

Taavoni et al., 2013 | Complement Ther Clin Pract | Rct

Citation

Taavoni S, Nazem Ekbatani N, Haghani H. Valerian/lemon balm use for sleep disorders during menopause. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2013-Nov;19(4):193-6. doi:10.1016/j.ctcp.2013.07.002

Abstract

UNLABELLED: The onset of Menopause in women is frequently associated with sleep disruption with hot flushes intensifying problems. Thus the use of supplementary drugs to ameliorate these symptoms is of significance. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this research was to determine whether valerian/lemon balm could assist by enhancing sleep patterns in this client group. METHODS: 100 women aged 50-60 years who complained of sleep disorders were studied. Subjects were selected randomly in a sampling method utilizing two groups of 50 people (intervention group with valerian/lemon balm and placebo group). The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was administered pre and post-intervention. RESULTS: A significant difference was observed with reduced levels of sleep disorders amongst the experimental group when compared to the placebo group. CONCLUSION: Valerian/lemon balm may assist in reducing symptoms of sleep disorder during the menopause.

Key Findings

A significant difference was observed with reduced levels of sleep disorders amongst the experimental group when compared to the placebo group.

Outcomes Measured

• sleep quality
• PSQI (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index)

Population

MeSH Terms

• Dietary Supplements
• Female
• Humans
• Melissa
• Menopause
• Middle Aged
• Phytotherapy
• Plant Extracts
• Sleep
• Sleep Wake Disorders
• Valerian

Evidence Classification

• Level: Rct
• Publication Types: Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial
• Vertical: valerian-sleep

Provenance

• PMID: 24199972
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2013.07.002
• PMCID: Not in PMC
• Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API

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