Posted 8/29/2016 6:00 PM (GMT 0)
Hey there! I'd like to add an addendum to the valerian root (which I've heard fabulous things about).
Valerian is a GABA agonist, meaning it acts on the same cellular site as benzodiazepines and many anxiolytics. It is technically a supplement and is therefore not subject to FDA regulation (dose, quality, source, etc.) and has not been fully investigated to determine cross-interactions. I would not mix depressive supplements and anxiety medication without first asking a doctor, just as I would not drink alcohol and take xanax at the same time.
In addition: If you choose to use melatonin, please pay attention to the size of the capsules. They come in 1mg and 3mg sizes. A brief survey of the internet shows a wide variety of reactions from people. Some people consistently take 6mg a night and sleep fine. Others can't take any more than 0.25-1mg because of night terrors, insomnia, etc. resulting from abnormal amounts of the hormone. Melatonin does not drive sleep. Melatonin is a hormone that signals a number of processes that occur during sleep and is present in extremely small doses in the body.
TLDR: Use supplements with caution!