Valerian is a very similiar supplement to melatonin. The reason why I prefer Valerian root over melatonin is the fact that I can take Valerian during the day. Valerian helps me sleep at night, but it also seems to help lower anxiety and stress. If you can get past the smell of Valerian root, this supplement will work great for you.

Valerian Root is hard to find around my state. That's why I use melatonin. However, when I can get my hands on it, Valerian is the one I buy first. The smell is disgusting (the bottle smells like something crawled in and died) but just pinch your nose and swallow! It helps me sleep so restfully, and it works very quick. (Less than an hour!)

I would be in serious trouble without valerian root. I have severe panic disorder, and even though i take Celexa for it, I still have breakthrough problems sometimes that are hard to control. In addition I have fibromyalgia, which creates insomnia, fatigue, and trouble getting restful sleep. Valerian root doesn't cure these ailments, but it sure makes them much more tolerable. I use valerian when i'm feeling stressed or panicked during the day, and within 30 minutes the anxiety is gone. It doesn't make you sleepy during the day, and it is safe to use with Celexa. I also take some at bedtime to help me relax and fall asleep faster. I find that when i do this, I don't have as many awakenings, and I feel more rested the next day. I definitely recommend that you try valerian. The only bad thing about it is that it kind of smells like feet. But get over it and just put it down the hatch!

My partner has a family history of colon cancer and thus could not take the Melatonin that I take to help her sleep. Because of this, she decided to try another natural sedative, Valerian Root. It works really well for her but she does complain that while it helps her to get to sleep it does not help to keep her asleep. Most nights she sleeps great on it though and that is why I would recommend it. I have used it a few times when I have been out of my Melatonin. It works fine for me too, but it does not give me the same results as the Melatonin. I would suggest this to anyone who can not take Melatonin or for who Melatonin does not work. I will give you a warning. These pills smell horrible--like a bathroom. AND our cats LOVE them! They react to the smell of this product like its catnip and go nuts! Its perfectly safe for them and you can play with it with them if you like (I researched this), but be aware that they will try to eat it if you leave your bottle opened or unattended.