Hops vs Valerian

Hops are the female flowers of the hop plant, best known for their use in brewing beer but also valued medicinally for their sedative and calming properties. They have been used in European herbal medicine since at least the 9th century. The sedative effects are attributed to the degradation products of alpha acids.

Valerian is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and Asia, long valued for its sedative and anxiolytic properties. It has been used since ancient Greek and Roman times for insomnia and nervousness. The root is the primary medicinal part, known for its distinctive strong odor.

2-Methyl-3-buten-2-ol, Xanthohumol, Humulone, Lupulone, 8-Prenylnaringenin

Valerenic acid, Isovaleric acid, Valepotriates, GABA, Hesperidin

Sleep aid, Anxiety relief, Digestive bitter, Appetite stimulant, Menstrual support

Insomnia remedy, Anxiety relief, Nervous tension, Digestive spasm relief, Headache treatment

Insomnia, Anxiety and restlessness, Menopausal symptoms, Digestive support, Tension headaches

Insomnia and sleep disorders, Anxiety, Restlessness, Menstrual cramps, Muscle tension

300-500mg extract daily, or 1-2 cups tea before bedtime

300-600mg root extract 30-60 minutes before bedtime

Depression (may worsen), Hormone-sensitive conditions (estrogenic effects), Concurrent sedative medications

Liver disease, Concurrent sedative medications, Before driving or operating machinery

Drowsiness, Dizziness, GI upset, Allergic reactions, Depressive symptoms

Headache, Excitability (paradoxical reaction), Uneasiness, Morning grogginess, Vivid dreams