Valerian root has not received sufficient research to argue its efficacy in addressing chronic illnesses and immune or digestive issues. However, it has been hypothesized that valerian root may be a natural therapeutic for insomniacs and patients with anxiety. A few studies have found valerian root effective in improving sleep quality and duration, but more studies are needed to corroborate these findings. (1) Promising recent research suggests that valerian root contains psychoactive properties that may also alleviate anxiety. (2, 3) Anxiety and poor sleep are interconnected, so as more research is performed to discover the mechanisms by which valerian root impacts sleep, modern science may better understand how valerian root influences the physical brain, cognition, and mental disorders. Valerian root has long been used as a traditional sleep aid, the questions remain: why and how?