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Best supplements for sleep

The 6 supplements people most often use for sleep. Supplements aren't FDA recall-rated like drugs and the evidence varies, so we list them as options — not a fabricated ranking — and tell you what to look for. Not medical advice.

By the pharmaranks editorial teamReviewed against NIH & NCCIH sourcesHow we research
  1. 1

    5-HTP

    5-Hydroxytryptophan
    Benefits, dosage & safety →
  2. 2

    Ashwagandha

    Withania Somnifera

    An adaptogenic herb taken to support stress resilience and relaxation.

    Benefits, dosage & safety →
  3. 3

    GABA

    Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid
    Benefits, dosage & safety →
  4. 4

    L-Theanine

    L-Theanine

    Amino acid from tea taken for calm focus, often with caffeine.

    Benefits, dosage & safety →
  5. 5

    Reishi

    Ganoderma Lucidum

    A medicinal mushroom traditionally used for immune support and calm.

    Benefits, dosage & safety →
  6. 6

    Valerian Root

    Valeriana Officinalis

    An herb traditionally used to support sleep and relaxation.

    Benefits, dosage & safety →

What to look for in a sleep supplement

With supplements, quality varies more by brand than by ingredient. Favor brands with independent third-party testing and certification — NSF, NSF Certified for Sport, USP Verified, Informed Sport — over unverified labels.

ThornePure EncapsulationsNOW FoodsNordic NaturalsLife ExtensionGarden of LifeAll tested brands →

FAQ

What is the best supplement for sleep?
There's rarely a single best — the options below are the supplements most commonly used for sleep. Evidence strength varies by ingredient and by person. Favor a form from a brand with independent third-party testing (NSF, USP Verified, Informed Sport), and check with a healthcare professional before starting.
Are sleep supplements FDA-approved?
No. The FDA regulates supplements as food, not drugs — they aren't approved for safety and effectiveness before sale. That makes third-party testing and certification the most useful quality signal, which is what we point to.
Do supplements replace medication for sleep?
No. Supplements are not a substitute for prescribed treatment. This page is general reference, not medical advice — talk to a licensed professional, especially if you take medication.

This page is general reference and not medical advice. Supplement evidence varies and is often limited; statements here have not been evaluated by the FDA. Consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting any supplement.