Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root Extract

Valerian root’s mechanism of action is distinct from passionflower’s and complementary to it. While passionflower enhances GABA-A receptor sensitivity (making receptors more responsive to GABA), valerian inhibits GABA transaminase — the enzyme responsible for breaking down GABA in the brain. By preventing GABA degradation, valerian increases the amount of available GABA in the synapse, prolonging its calming effect. The result: more GABA present for longer, acting on receptors that passionflower has made more sensitive.

Valerenic acid is the specific compound responsible for this GABA transaminase inhibition, which is why the 0.8% standardisation in element³ REST matters. Unstandardised valerian preparations may contain variable amounts of valerenic acid, leading to inconsistent effects. The standardisation ensures that each dose delivers a predictable level of the active compound, supporting reliable sleep benefits night after night.

Valerian also contains valepotriates, which have demonstrated additional sedative and anxiolytic properties through mechanisms that may include modulation of adenosine receptors and inhibition of monoamine oxidase. These secondary mechanisms contribute to valerian’s broader calming effect beyond pure GABA pathway modulation.

Within the REST formula, valerian occupies the GABA-preservation position in a three-part herbal sleep strategy. Passionflower enhances GABA receptor sensitivity, valerian prevents GABA breakdown, and Hops Extract provides additional GABA-A agonist activity. This trio attacks the GABA system from three different angles, creating a level of GABAergic support that is substantially greater than any single ingredient could provide. Research on the valerian-hops combination specifically has shown synergistic effects on sleep latency (time to fall asleep) and sleep quality that exceed the effects of either ingredient alone.

The 160mg dose in REST reflects a balance between clinical efficacy and the comprehensive nature of the formula. In single-ingredient studies, higher valerian doses (450–600mg) are often used, but REST provides valerian as part of a multi-ingredient system where GABA support comes from multiple sources (L-theanine, magnesium citrate, passionflower, hops). The 160mg dose contributes meaningfully to this collective GABA strategy without requiring the higher doses needed when valerian works alone.

In REST (PM Formula), Valerian Root Extract at 160mg (0.8% valerenic acid) provides GABA transaminase inhibition that preserves available GABA in the brain, prolonging its calming effects. It occupies a specific mechanistic position in REST’s three-part herbal sleep strategy: Passionflower enhances GABA-A receptor sensitivity, Valerian prevents GABA breakdown, and Hops Extract adds additional GABA-A agonist activity. Combined with Ashwagandha Sensoril® (cortisol reduction), L-theanine (neurotransmitter modulation), and dual-form magnesium (GABA receptor support and muscle relaxation), valerian is one spoke in a sleep support system that addresses every major pathway of sleep disruption. Taken nightly as part of the REST formula, it builds cumulative GABA system support that becomes more effective over weeks of consistent use — precisely the sustained approach needed for women over 35 whose sleep disruption is chronic rather than occasional.