We live in a fast-paced world, with a lot of personal and professional stuff going on in our lives. With continuous demands, all one wants is a good night’s sleep after a long, tiring day at work. Sleeping is an essential part of our daily life that helps us maintain both our physical but also our mental health.
An improper sleeping schedule can mess up your circadian rhythm, and that leads to less and less productivity throughout the day. With the help of the best herbal sleeping aids, you can get the best rest without worrying about any harmful side effects.
With so many products on the market, it gets hard to choose the perfect one. After ample research, we have put together a list of the best herbal sleeping aids available on the market so that you can make an informed decision.
Without further ado, let’s get started.
Our Overall #1 Rated Pick
Performance Lab Sleep
- Herbal and organic blend
- No morning grogginess
- Third-party tested
- Allergen-free
Getting a restful night’s sleep is probably the biggest challenge for people nowadays, given the “always-on” and always online nature of modern life. When the body’s natural sleep cycle is disturbed, people look for natural sleep aids to help them improve the quality of their sleep.
A lot of options are available in the herbal sleep aid market, however, Performance Lab’s Sleep supplement packs some extra punch.
Best Herbal Sleep Aids – Comparison Table
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Best Herbal Sleeping Aids in 2024 – Product Reviews
Top 10 herbal sleep aids out there
Performance Lab Sleep
Getting a restful night’s sleep is probably the biggest challenge for people nowadays, given the hustle and bustle of everyday life. When the body’s natural sleep cycle is disturbed, people look for natural sleep aids to help them improve their night’s rest.
A lot of options are available in the herbal sleep aid market, however, Performance Lab’s Sleep supplement packs some extra punch. Ordinary sleep aids work on the single high-dose principle, supplying just one straight dosage of melatonin.
This approach tends to cause grogginess in people when they wake up in the morning, instead of making them feel refreshed and energized.
By contrast, Performance Lab Sleep incorporates melatonin extracted from the Montmorency tart cherries, keeping the overall formula organic and herbal.
In addition to melatonin for aiding sleep, it also includes magnesium in 3 different molecular forms. These forms of magnesium act as a muscle relaxant, promoting the feeling of sleepiness throughout the body.
Melatonin and magnesium help induce sleep in an accelerated manner, while also sparing the user from the unwanted feelings of grogginess and drowsiness upon waking up. Performance Lab Sleep ensures the use of safe and reliable ingredients that are carefully blended by its nutrition experts to provide users with the best herbal sleep experience.
Pros
- Herbal and organic blend
- No morning grogginess
- Tested for unwanted substances
- Third-party tested
- Allergen-free
Cons
- None to be mentioned
Future Kind Vegan Sleep
The trend for people choosing supplements to better their sleep cycles is only increasing. As such, many brands have entered this field and experimented with their products. Among the select few brands that has cemented its position as a successful player is Future Kind.
Vegan Sleep is Future Kind’s go-to product if you’re looking for one of the best herbal sleep aids in 2024. The product infuses chamomile and melatonin in its premium formula. This blend of ingredients helps to induce deep sleep by helping the whole body settle into a relaxed state that is primed for sleep.
The use of hop flower extract and lemon balm adds to the product’s efficacy while also maintaining its herbal nature. Vegan Sleep guarantees accelerated feelings of sleepiness through relaxed muscles and by soothing any lingering pains or aches.
You get all of these advantages without the side effects that most ordinary sleep aids come with, such as feeling drowsy, brain fog, and even spells of nausea. Future Kind does not compromise on quality and guarantees the use of safe and reliable ingredients.
Its team of skilled personnel prepares the finest blends of products that guarantee the best experience. All products undergo local as well as independent lab tests for verifying purity and authenticity. The product is kept as natural as possible and is free of any artificial additives.
Pros
- Herbal formula
- No morning drowsiness
- Third-party lab-verified
- Additive-free
Cons
- None to be mentioned
Mind Lab Pro
Mind Lab Pro ranks amongst one of the best products in the supplement market and is sure to give you an all-around performance boost. Labelled as the world’s first Universal nootropic, the product infuses 11 different types of nootropics in a singular blend to pack the biggest punch compared to its market competitors.
Unlike ordinary supplements that target only 2-3 pathways in your brain, Mind Lab’s 11-nootropic blend is sure to act on all six brain pathways. In addition to strengthening the nerve cell membranes and helping in brain regeneration, it soothes the muscles in the body to induce a night of deep and peaceful sleep.
The formula supplies small yet effective doses, which also save the users from side effects such as nausea and grogginess. The enhancement in overall mood and increased mental relaxation provided by Mind Lab Pro helps a lot in bringing about the restful night’s sleep that all people long for.
At Opti Nutra, the best nutrition experts are tasked with providing users with a safe and reliable product, free from any kinds of chemicals, stabilizers or heavy metals. The blend is kept as natural as possible, eliminating any kinds of artificial additives.
Pros
- Herbal formula
- 11-in-1 premium blend
- No morning drowsiness
- Universal nootropic
- Third-party lab-verified
- Chemical-free
Cons
- None to be mentioned
Spruce Sleep ranger
Spruce is amongst one of the well-known and trusted names in the field of supplements. They have a number of effective supplements for aiding cognitive and sleep issues. To cater to people having trouble with sleeping, Spruce’s Sleep Ranger is the go-to product.
Utilizing high-grade melatonin and valerian root extract, it promises users the best herbal experience. Sleep Ranger is formulated with all the necessary ingredients you need to get a restful night’s sleep and relax your body.
Packed with 10mg of premium melatonin mixed with a number of effective enzymes, it helps in regulating the sleep-wake cycle to create a well-defined sleep pattern for the users. It also incorporates the additional component of magnesium in its bis-glycinate form.
It acts as a very good muscle relaxant and induces a calming effect. The valerian root extract shows its efficacy in treating severe problems like insomnia and depression. Women going through menopause symptoms can also benefit a lot from this product.
Pros
- Organic blend
- High-grade melatonin
- Calming effect
- Third-party lab-verified
- Synthetic-free
Cons
- None to be mentioned
Spruce 2400 mg CBD Oil
In addition to its premium blends of natural supplements, Spruce also boasts a formidable range of premium herbal CBD infused oils. These CBD oils come in handy for a number of reasons with mental relaxation and sleep aid being just two of them.
The oils are based on hemp extracts and are completely herbal in nature. The team of highly skilled nutritionists has carefully formulated the premium blend of hemp to provide a safe harbor for people having sleep troubles.
The product is full-spectrum, which means it utilizes the whole hemp plant and not just small parts of the plant. This creates additional efficacy. The hemp is extracted using procedures involving carbon dioxide.
These procedures make sure to preserve the freshness and quality of the oil by reducing oxidation through coming into contact with air. Spruce does not compromise on the quality and authenticity of its products. Third-party tests are conducted to confirm the validity of all products before being released on the market.
Pros
- Organic hemp-extract
- Preserves freshness
- Third-party lab-verified
- Synthetic-free
Cons
- 0.3% of THC content, can alert drug tests
Spruce 4800 mg CBD Oil
The second variant from the CBD oil range of Spruce is the 4800mg CBD oil. It is similar to the other oil variants but has the additional advantage of extra potency. This 4800mg is the maximum potency available in Spruce CBD products.
Like its counterparts, this variant is also based on high-grade hemp extracts. The hemp is kept full-spectrum, meaning the complete hemp plant is used for maximum efficacy. The 4800mg high-potency oil is sure to help induce a deeply calming effect and improve sleep patterns.
The CO2 extraction process is used due to its advantage of preserving the quality and freshness of hemp.
Spruce remains true to its word of providing the best products. It conducts local and third-party lab tests to verify the validity and authenticity of the products. All products are kept free from any harmful chemicals, additives and/or heavy metals.
Pros
- Natural hemp-extract
- Retains freshness
- Third-party lab-verified
- Synthetic-free
Cons
- Contains 0.3% THC, might alert drug tests
Cheef Botanicals CBD Oil
Founded by a group of nutrition enthusiasts, Cheef Botanicals has evolved into a well-respected brand marketing CBD products today. Its reputation is owed to its no-compromise attitude when it comes to the quality of its products.
Cheef Botanicals employ skilled nutritionists to create a premium blend of CBD oil from hemp extract after years of dedicated research. The hemp extraction process involves the usage of carbon dioxide, which retains the quality and freshness of hemp in the final product.
The oil helps in soothing muscles and inducing the feeling of sleepiness. It is the best solution for people that have trouble sleeping properly.
To date, the brand has not faced any concerns regarding quality. It is due to the fact that all products undergo strict evaluation and testing by local as well as independent labs. The quality and authenticity of products are validated before they are made available to customers.
Pros
- Herbal
- Retained freshness
- Third-party lab-tested
- Non-GMO
- Gluten-free
- Chemical-free
Cons
- Contains 0.3% THC, might alert drug tests
Rescue Sleep Liquid Melts
Rescue is another name that is placed amongst top-notch manufacturers of sleep supplements. Its Rescue Sleep Liquid Melts are regarded as one of the best homeopathic remedies available on the market today.
Liquid Melts incorporate flower extracts, keeping everything herbal and organic. Rock Rose and Cherry Plum are some of the notable extracts used in the product that are blended to enhance the feeling of sleepiness.
These Liquid Melts are the best answer for the occasional problem of sleeplessness that many people face as a result of disturbed sleep patterns. The Liquid Melts use a quick-dissolve mechanism in soft gel capsules.
They just need to be placed under the tongue so that they can start dissolving and the ingredients kick in to do their duty of inducing a restful night’s sleep.
Pros
- Herbal remedy
- Quick-dissolve capsules
- Third-party lab-tested
- Chemical-free
Cons
- Not evaluated by FDA
Vicks ZzzQuil Sleep Gummies
Vicks is one of the leading manufacturers that has been providing customers with dietary supplements for decades. Its ZzzQuil product range features different supplements that assist people experiencing sleep problems.
Its sleep gummies are a product that has been well-received by many people. The gummies are formulated with an effective blend of various herbal ingredients. Lavender and chamomile supply melatonin, which is the main ingredient that helps induce the feeling of sleep.
Lemon balm and valerian root extracts help relax muscles and soothe any lingering aches. The best thing about these gummies is that you will not experience any grogginess after sleeping, instead, you will wake up completely fresh.
The product has an optimum dosage of melatonin so that you don’t experience grogginess and brain fog that comes with higher doses. The sleep gummies are available in the exciting flavor of Wildberry Vanilla. In addition to helping you with sleep, the product is sure to tantalize your taste buds as well.
The dosage is kept balanced so they are completely harmless and are not habit-forming.
Pros
- Premium botanical blend
- Wildberry vanilla flavor
- No grogginess
- Third-party lab-tested
- Chemical-free
Cons
- Not evaluated by the FDA
Gaia Herbs Sound Sleep
Gaia Herbs is one of the well-known names in the list of herbal supplement manufacturers. It has amassed a dedicated customer base owing to its highly effective and authentic herbal supplements.
Its Sound Sleep liquid capsules are the best answer for any problems related to sleep. Its formula is a well-prepared premium blend of herbal ingredients that fuse together to provide the ultimate soothing sleep experience.
The botanical blend consists of Kava root, Passionflower extracts, American Skullcap and California Poppy. All of these ingredients have their own unique soothing properties. Gaia Herbs has its own farms where it grows American Skullcap and California Poppy to maintain reliability and safety of ingredients.
All the ingredients blend together to create a relaxing sensation in the body to provide a wonderful calming effect. This effect helps the body to achieve a restful night’s sleep. Just 2-3 capsules are required to be taken about an hour before bed for the best sleep results.
Pros
- Premium herbal mixture
- Fast-acting
- Third-party lab-tested
- Chemical-free
- Non-GMO
- Gluten-free
Cons
- None to be mentioned
Best Herbal Sleeping Aids – Buying Guide
Herbal Sleeping Aids vs Synthetic Sleeping Pill
Although some people swear by herbal methods, some skeptics question the actual power and effect of herbal sleeping aids compared to synthetic ones. One of the best things about herbal sleeping aids is their overall safety.
A lot of over-the-counter sleeping pills have harsh ingredients that may show results instantly but will cause adverse effects the next morning and further down the road from extended use. It is known that over-the-counter pills can cause dependency over time.
Moreover, they can also cause withdrawal symptoms and worsened sleep, which can be hard for a lot of people to overcome.
Ingredients to Look For
Here’s a list of some of the most common and active ingredients in herbal sleeping aids. Make sure to take a look at the ingredients list before buying the best herbal sleeping aid to ensure you are buying the best quality product available.
- Melatonin
Melatonin is the first ingredient we think about when herbal sleeping aids are mentioned. Melatonin is a hormone that is already present in the human body. This hormone responds to the dark and helps induce sleep.
Moreover, it also helps to maintain a healthy circadian rhythm. Lack of melatonin is one of the contributing factors to insomnia and disturbed sleep cycle. If the herbal sleeping aid contains melatonin, it will help improve your sleep quality.
- Valerian
Valerian has been used as a natural and herbal sleeping aid since ancient Greek times. It is a natural herb, with plenty of beneficial properties. Moreover, it has virtually no side effects. Valerian also helps with relieving headaches, muscle pain, joint pain, etc.
- Chamomile
Other than having a great taste and extraordinary aroma, chamomile has a lot of healing and soothing properties. One of these benefits is sleep cycle improvement. Not only does it help soothe your brain, but it also helps to de-stress you which in turn helps you fall asleep more quickly and easily.
However, before taking chamomile, make sure that you are not allergic to it. Also, ensure that it will not interact adversely with any medication you are on. Your safety above all, folks!
- Magnesium
Magnesium is an important mineral that is essential for your physical and mental health. Studies have shown that decreased amounts of magnesium in the body will, one way or another, contribute to insomnia.
Magnesium works by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. This helps with alleviating anxiety, which allows your brain to relax so that you can sleep peacefully.
- Tryptophan
Tryptophan is an amino acid that plays a vital role in the sleep cycle. Tryptophan acts as a raw material for the production of melatonin which, as we already discussed above, helps a lot by stimulating the sleep cycle.
- Lavender
Lavender has long been associated with relaxation, calming effects, and rest. Lavender has been used as a nerve calmer since the 1600s. This is one of the reasons why lavender is a popular scent in beauty products and in scented candles.
The soothing properties of lavender help in inducing sleep. The long list of the healing properties of lavender and its scent include sleep induction, pain relief, improvement of blood circulation, headache relief, etc. Lavender can be used in the form of essential oils and tea.
Benefits of CBD
We now know that CBD has more than one function and can help in more than one way. CBD not only soothes anxiety and fidgeting but also helps with improving focus and concentration as well.
Mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and others can’t be cured directly unlike a physical wound or injury. And the symptoms of these disorders meddle with everyday life and need to be treated.
CBD has also been seen to lessen the symptoms of depression similar to antidepressants. However, its widely accepted that antidepressants also affect other areas of a person’s life, such as appetite, sex drive, mood, and sleep.
Hindrance in any of these processes can have worsened effects on a person’s physical and mental health. CBD has shown to have no such side effects. Consulting a doctor is a must before using any sleeping aids – synthetic or natural.
Best Herbal Sleeping Aids – Side Effects
Whether it’s a drug or a dietary supplement, most things have side effects and natural sleeping aids are no exception. These side effects range from mild to moderate but are bound to result in more serious effects if you have a severe allergy or if you are taking other medication at the same time.
Instances like these require proper medical assistance. Allergies are the most common side effects. As a lot of the ingredients are herbal, there is a good chance that someone might be allergic to a particular plant or pollen. Improper doses of the sleeping aid, be it natural or lab-made can lead to overactivity.
This means that the feeling of sleepiness could be carried into the morning. What this will do is make you even more grumpy and less productive the next day. Headaches and stomach issues are one of the most commonly noted side effects with natural sleeping aids and the extent of these side effects is usually mild.
Even though these side effects are rare and minimal, it’s still important you should try one of the best supplements that we have reviewed above for a couple of days, and if you feel perfectly fine, you can continue taking them.
In most cases, adults can handle sleeping pills. This doesn’t mean that anyone and everyone should take sleeping pills. When you start taking pills, make sure to note the changes in your sleep pattern, moods, and overall health.
Keep assessing yourself so that you can discontinue the sleeping aid when/if you feel unwell or not like yourself. Check all labels and ingredient lists to be extra sure that nothing troublesome is in the medications or supplements.
Best Herbal Sleeping Aids – FAQs
Q. Are herbal sleeping aids harmful?
No, herbal sleeping aids are not harmful to you, nor will they make you dependent on them. However, you might be allergic to some ingredients present in them, so make sure to check the ingredients before you start using the sleeping aid.
Moreover, if you are on any medication, it can interact with it as well, so that is another thing to keep in mind.
Q. Will herbal sleeping aids cause dependency?
Most sleeping aids won’t. Look for a brand that directly states that its product won’t cause dependency. Once again, check the ingredients list and do your research.
Q. Do OTC sleeping pills really work?
Yes, they do work. But, they should be your last resort. They are not a solution for bad habits. Do not overdose, start small and discontinue if you feel serious side effects.
Q. Are natural sleeping aids helpful?
Yes, they are. Relative surveys and studies have shown time and time again that some specific herbs can induce sleep. How and when it works may differ among people.
Best Herbal Sleeping Aids – Final Word
Nothing refreshes you like a peaceful, restful, good night’s sleep. With the help of the best herbal sleeping aid, you can accomplish that very easily, with virtually no side effects. We have selected the top 10 best herbal sleeping aids for you so that you won’t have any difficulty finding a good product from thousands available in the market.
Hopefully, the buying guide will help answer any questions that you might have.
Sleep well, people!