Ashwagandha and valerian root are herbs that are often compared because of their ability to help benefit sleep.
However, there are also some important differences between these herbs that you should be aware of before choosing one or the other.
In this article, we’ll compare both the differences and the similarities of valerian root vs. ashwagandha.
Table of Contents
- Valerian Root vs. Ashwagandha: Similarities & Differences Explained
- Valerian Root vs. Ashwagandha: Which is right for you?
- Valerian Root vs. Ashwagandha: Can You Take Them Together?
- Best Valerian Root & Ashwagandha Supplements:
- Ashwagandha Overview & Uses:
- Valerian Overview & Uses:
- Potential Side Effects & Interactions:
- Conclusion:
Valerian Root vs. Ashwagandha: Similarities & Differences Explained
When it comes to comparing ashwagandha and valerian, there are many similarities between these two herbs.
First off, the medicinal part of each plant is its root. Ashwagandha is fast growing and is typically harvested after 1-2 years. Valerian root also grows quickly and is harvested after the first year of growth (typically in the fall).
Both ashwagandha root and valerian help to promote brain health, sleep, stress levels, and overall mood.
The key difference between the two is that ashwagandha is an adaptogen with stress-relieving properties while valerian is more of a nervous system relaxant.
Both valerian root and ashwagandha have been used in traditional medicine systems. Ashwagandha is highly used within the Ayurvedic system of medicine, while valerian has more usage within traditional Western medicine (along with Native American practice).
| Valerian Root Overview: | Ashwagandha Overview: | |
| Primary Benefit: | Valerian root is thought to increase sleep quality | Ashwagandha may work to reduce symptoms of insomnia |
| Secondary Benefit(s): | Valerian shows evidence of lowering stress levels | Ashwagandha displays potential anti-anxiety effects |
| Part of the Plant Used: | Root | Root |
| Dosage Range: | 300-600mg | 300-1,000mg |
| Form: | Extract, powder or capsule | Extract, powder or capsule |
| Side Effects: | Low likelihood of headache, stomach upset, mental dullness, heart disturbances, or drowsiness | Large doses may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or vomiting |
| Recommended Products: | Utzy Naturals | Check Price | Gaia Herbs | Check Price |
Valerian Root vs. Ashwagandha: Which is right for you?
You can think of ashwagandha as an anti-stress herb with the ability to support increased sleep quality. The sleep benefit is more of a secondary function.
Whereas with valerian root, its ability to promote better sleep and reduce sleep latency is its main benefit. This makes valerian an excellent sleep aid. It also has an anxiolytic benefit, but this is more of a secondary function.
Click here to find our recommended valerian-based formula for sleep.
If you are stressed and need support in your ability to adapt to stress, then ashwagandha is the right choice. Its sleep-supporting effects are icing on the cake.
If you primarily need help with getting better sleep quality, then valerian root is your best choice. It can help to increase deep REM sleep and help your body to wake up feeling refreshed.
For valerian-based sleep aids, we recommend looking at Fall Asleep, a natural herbal sleep aid containing valerian, lemonbalm, passionflower, and skullcap.
Valerian Root vs. Ashwagandha: Can You Take Them Together?
Yes, you can take valerian root and ashwagandha together.
These herbs do not have any known negative interactions when taken together.
In fact, these herbs may be a good combination to help benefit sleep and reduce anxious thoughts.
Best Valerian Root & Ashwagandha Supplements:
It is crucial to select an effective, high-quality supplement from a trustworthy brand, although this can be difficult.
To make selecting a supplement that works for you easier, we’ve put together a complete guide going over the best ashwagandha supplements and our top recommended valerian supplement.
| Recommended Valerian Root | Recommended Ashwagandha |
|---|---|
 |  |
| Utzy Naturals | Gaia herbs |
| •Easy-to-Take Capsules •3rd Party Tested •Made in the USA | •Organic, Vegan, and Gluten-Free •Ecologically Harvested in Siberia •Concentrated Dosage |
| SHOP NOW ⮕ | SHOP NOW ⮕ |
Ashwagandha Overview & Uses:
Ashwagandha is a well-known Ayurvedic plant that is used for its adaptogenic effects.
This plant has been used as an aphrodisiac and health tonic in India for millennia. It has also been traditionally used in medicine for its anti-stress and immunostimulating effects.
Ashwagandha is a proven commodity and has been found in various scientific studies to treat anxiety, improve sleep quality, and promote stress resilience.
1. May Benefit Insomnia
According to clinical studies, ashwagandha may help with sleep and insomnia.
Researchers who studied the