Valsed? tablets, provided by Douglas Laboratories?, contain extracts of valerian root (Valeriana officianalis) and passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), as well as magnesium gluconate, useful for supporting healthy sleep patterns and relaxation. Valerian root has been used since antiquity to relieve emotional stress associated with fear or anger. As a non-narcotic herbal sedative, valerian root extract can act as a food supplement that promotes restful sleep. As a muscle relaxant, valerian root may be helpful in supporting neck and shoulder tension, gastrointestinal health and muscle relaxation. Valerian root?s effectiveness as a sedative relaxant is thought to be due to its content of the valpotriates, i.e. valtrate and isovaltrate. A study of 23 outpatients at a large clinical hospital showed that most study patients felt that the herb was moderately to extremely helpful for supporting restful sleep. Another study of valerian root?s sedative properties with 99 subjects indicated that there was no negative impact on alertness and concentration the morning after a single or repeated adminstrations of 600 mg of valerian extract. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) has also been used for many years as a natural tranquilizer. Central American natives used it to sooth overactive nerves and support stress. Some suggest its use for a variety of conditions, including supporting healthy sleep and muscle relaxation. Passionflower?s active ingredients are thought to include the pyrone derivative maltol, as well as the flavonoids, orientin, isoorientin, vitexin and chrysin. Some have suggested that the two herbs, valerian and passionflower, may act synergistically, one as a sedative and the other as a relaxant. Valsed? tablets may be a useful dietary supplement for individuals who wish to support healthy sleep and muscle relaxation.