5 Best Sleep Supplements of 2024: Top Sleep Aids & Pills for a Restful Night

Updated on March 5, 2024
 by — reviewed by Jason Williams, PhD (Contributor: George Collins / Editor: Yoko Hill)
An article exploring the best sleep supplements and pills for achieving a peaceful, restful night.

What are the best sleep supplements?

Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for overall well-being. But with our busy lives and constant stressors, achieving restful sleep can be a challenge. That’s where sleep supplements come in.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top sleep supplements on the market. These supplements are designed to help you relax, fall asleep faster, and wake up feeling refreshed.

Whether you’re struggling with insomnia or simply want to improve the quality of your sleep, these sleep supplements are worth considering. So let’s dive in and find out which ones made the cut for our list.

Best Sleep Supplements

1. Performance Lab Sleep

Performance Lab Sleep is a top pick for those looking for a natural and effective sleep aid. Its formula helps you drift off into a peaceful slumber.

A primary ingredient is Magnesium, a mineral known for its role in promoting cognitive health. Magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitters and supports memory and learning abilities. Another key ingredient is Montmorency Tart Cherry, which provides potent antioxidants that protect brain cells from oxidative stress.

These antioxidants help combat free radicals and contribute to improved cognitive function. Additionally, L-Tryptophan, an essential amino acid, aids in the production of serotonin, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation and cognitive performance.(1) Lastly, Sea Buckthorn, rich in omega-7 fatty acids and antioxidants, promotes brain health and reduces inflammation, supporting overall cognitive function.(2)

Together, these ingredients in Performance Lab Sleep offer numerous benefits for mental wellness and brain health.

Pros:

  • Enhances sleep quality for better rest and recovery.
  • Promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety for a peaceful night’s sleep
  • Increases REM sleep duration and deepens sleep cycles
  • Improves mental clarity and focus upon waking up
  • Non-habit forming and free from artificial additives

Cons:

  • Results may vary depending on individual sleep patterns and habits
  • Not suitable for those with medical conditions or taking certain medications
  • It may take some time to notice significant effects

Performance Lab Sleep will improve your sleep hygiene and its available without a prescription. It’s a simple solution to lack of sleep!

2. NooCube Sleep Upgrade

NooCube Sleep Upgrade is another excellent choice for improving your sleep quality. Packed with a unique blend of powerful ingredients, this formula is set to revolutionize your sleep routine.

Lemon Balm, known for its calming properties, helps reduce anxiety and restlessness, creating an ideal environment for uninterrupted sleep.(3) Lavender, with its soothing aroma, promotes relaxation and encourages deeper sleep.(4)

The inclusion of Vitamin D3 supports a healthy sleep-wake cycle, while Magnesium and Calcium work to relax muscles and encourage a peaceful slumber.

Pros:

  • Optimizes brain wave patterns for a more rejuvenating sleep
  • Promotes vivid dreams and enhances memory consolidation during sleep
  • Boosts cognitive functions and mental performance upon waking up
  • Non-addictive and free from caffeine or stimulants

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for individuals with underlying sleep disorders
  • Can be relatively expensive
  • Not recommended for pregnant or nursing women

Experience the wonders of NooCube Sleep Upgrade and wake up feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to take on the day.

3. Advanced Sleep Formula

The Advanced Sleep Formula is a comprehensive sleep supplement that combines multiple ingredients to address various sleep concerns. It contains several natural ingredients, each offering unique benefits.

Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in serotonin synthesis, helping to regulate sleep patterns and promote relaxation. Hawthorn Berry extract aids in reducing anxiety and calming the nervous system, while Passion flower extract acts as a natural sedative, improving sleep quality.(5)(6)

Humulus Lupulus (Hop extract) works as a mild sedative and relaxant, enhancing sleep efficiency.(7) Valerian root has been used for centuries to treat insomnia, while Lithium Orotate promotes healthy sleep patterns. Melatonin regulates sleep-wake cycles, and California Poppy provides pain relief and promotes relaxation.

Combined, these ingredients improve sleep quality and duration, offering a natural solution for those struggling with insomnia or sleep disturbances. 

Pros:

  • Supports deep sleep for enhanced recovery and rejuvenation
  • Reduces sleep latency and promotes faster onset of sleep
  • Calms the mind and reduces stress and anxiety before bed

Cons:

  • May require higher doses to see noticeable improvements in sleep quality
  • May take some time to find the optimal dosage for individual needs

Complementing this supplement with healthy sleep habits will help alleviate your insomnia and other sleep disorders.

4. L-Theanine

L-Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea and promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Taking an L-Theanine supplement before bed can help calm the mind and prepare you for a restful night’s sleep.

L-Theanine works by increasing the production of alpha waves in the brain, which are associated with a state of calmness and relaxation.(8) By crossing the blood-brain barrier, it can directly act on neurotransmitters, such as GABA, dopamine, and serotonin, to induce feelings of relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Additionally, L-Theanine enhances the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle.

Pros:

  • Promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety
  • Increases the production of calming neurotransmitters
  • Enhances mental focus and alertness upon waking up
  • Supports overall brain health and cognitive function

Cons:

  • Effects may not be as pronounced in individuals with chronic sleep disorders
  • Not recommended for individuals with low blood pressure

These effects make L-Theanine an attractive choice if you are seeking natural alternatives to promote better sleep and relaxation.

5. Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body to regulate sleep-wake cycles. Taking melatonin as a supplement helps regulate the body’s internal clock, making it an effective aid in promoting healthy and restful sleep.(9)

By mimicking the body’s natural melatonin production, this supplement signals the brain that it’s time to sleep. Melatonin supplements are popular among individuals experiencing jet lag, shift work-related sleep issues, or those struggling with general sleep disturbances.

Pros:

  • Reduces the time needed to fall asleep and improves sleep quality
  • Helps alleviate symptoms of jet lag or shift work sleep disorder
  • Non-habit forming and suitable for long-term use

Cons:

  • Results may vary depending on individual physiology and lifestyle factors
  • May cause daytime drowsiness if taken in higher doses
  • Some individuals may experience vivid dreams or nightmares

Melatonin’s effectiveness and safety have made it a go-to choice for improving sleep quality and combating insomnia.

How We Selected the Top Sleep Supplements

Our selection of the best sleep supplements was a comprehensive process, factoring in their efficacy, ingredients, the reputation of the brand, transparency, manufacturing practices, user reviews, price, and value. Each element was evaluated thoroughly to provide a reliable and well-rounded list of the best sleep-inducing supplements.

Efficacy

We examined scientific research and user reviews to measure sleep improvement, focusing on sleep duration, latency, and overall sleep quality.

Ingredients

We closely inspected each formula, emphasizing on proven, natural, and high-quality components that aid in better sleep.

Scientific Backing

We referred to scholarly articles and meta-reviews to confirm the effectiveness of essential ingredients in promoting sleep.

Dosage

We evaluated the suggested dosages and ingredient ratios, ensuring they are in line with established research for peak effectiveness.

Safety

We checked the safety of each ingredient, taking into account possible side effects and interactions, and confirming compliance with regulatory standards. Ingredients approved by the FDA are prioritized.

Brand Reputation

We assessed the credibility and reliability of the brands through customer reviews, expert recommendations, and the brand’s history.

Product Transparency

We valued full ingredient disclosure, including their sources and quantities, enabling informed consumer choices.

Manufacturing Process

We scrutinized manufacturing standards, giving preference to products made in certified facilities that follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

User Reviews

We evaluated real customer feedback, giving importance to testimonials that detail improved sleep patterns and overall sleep quality.

Price

We compared prices of the products, ensuring they were competitive and consistent with the quality and effectiveness of the supplement.

Value

We evaluated the overall value, taking into account the balance of price, quality, and efficacy to ensure an optimal return on investment.

How Sleep Supplements Work

Sleep supplements are designed to support and enhance your sleep quality and duration. They typically contain ingredients that help to relax the body, reduce anxiety, and promote a restful state. Here’s how sleep supplements work:

  • Promoting Relaxation: Many sleep supplement ingredients, such as chamomile, valerian root, and passionflower, have calming properties. These herbs help relax the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
  • Reducing Anxiety: Stress and anxiety can be major contributors to sleep problems. Sleep supplements often include ingredients like Ashwagandha, L-Theanine, and GABA, which reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
  • Supporting Melatonin Production: Some sleep supplements contain melatonin or ingredients that support its production in the body. By increasing melatonin levels, you fall asleep faster and sleep soundly.
  • Improving Sleep Architecture: Certain sleep supplements target specific stages of sleep to enhance overall sleep architecture. Ingredients like Magnesium, Zinc, and L-Tryptophan promote deep, restorative sleep by influencing neurotransmitters and hormones involved in regulating sleep.

Potential Side Effects of Sleep Supplements

While sleep supplements can be effective in promoting a restful night’s sleep, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects they may carry. Here are some common side effects associated with sleep supplements:

  • Daytime Drowsiness: Some sleep supplements may cause excessive drowsiness during the day. This can affect your productivity and overall well-being.
  • Dependency and Tolerance: Using sleep supplements on a regular basis can lead to dependency and tolerance. This means that over time, higher doses may be needed to achieve the same level of effectiveness, and stopping the supplement suddenly may result in withdrawal symptoms.
  • Nausea and Digestive Issues: Certain sleep supplements can cause stomach discomfort, nausea, or digestive issues, especially if taken on an empty stomach.
  • Allergic Reactions: In some cases, individuals may experience allergic reactions to specific ingredients found in sleep supplements. This can range from mild symptoms like itching and rash to more severe reactions such as difficulty breathing.
  • Interactions with Medications: Sleep supplements can interact with other medications you may be taking, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs. This can potentially reduce the effectiveness of either the sleep supplement or the other medication, or even result in harmful interactions.

Remember, everyone’s body is different, so what works for one person may not work for another.

How to Use Sleep Supplements Safely

It’s important to use sleep supplements safely to avoid any potential risks or side effects. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Consult with a healthcare professional: Before adding any sleep supplement to your routine, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess your specific needs and make recommendations based on your individual health profile.
  • Follow dosage instructions: It’s crucial to follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer. Taking more than the suggested amount can lead to adverse effects and may not improve the quality of your sleep.
  • Avoid long-term use: Sleep supplements are intended for short-term use. Using them for an extended period may lead to dependence or other health concerns. It’s best to address any ongoing sleep issues with lifestyle changes or seek medical assistance.
  • Avoid combining supplements and medications: If you’re already taking any prescription medications, discuss with your healthcare provider before introducing sleep supplements into your routine.
  • Monitor your response: Pay attention to how your body reacts to the sleep supplement. If you experience any adverse effects or unexpected changes, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.

Summary

In a fast-paced world where sleep is often elusive, finding effective solutions for restful nights is paramount. This guide delves into the realm of sleep aids, unveiling the top choices for promoting rejuvenating slumber in 2024.

From Performance Lab Sleep’s potent blend harnessing the power of Magnesium and Montmorency Tart Cherry to NooCube Sleep Upgrade’s unique fusion of Lemon Balm and Lavender, these supplements offer paths to tranquil rest. Advanced Sleep Formula, a comprehensive concoction, blends nature’s gifts like Hawthorn Berry and Passion flower extract for diverse sleep concerns.

L-Theanine and Melatonin emerge as stalwarts, aiding relaxation and synchronizing the sleep-wake cycle.

Sleep supplements are not a one-size-fits-all remedy; personal physiology and lifestyle factors influence outcomes. As you navigate toward enhanced sleep quality, remember to consult healthcare professionals, follow recommended dosages, and prioritize safety.

A restful night’s sleep fosters better days, and these supplements offer a helping hand on your journey to optimal well-being.

FAQs

Are natural sleep aids safe to use?

Natural sleep aids are considered safe when used as directed. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking a sleep aid every night, as prolonged use may have potential risks, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Are natural sleep aids as effective as prescription sleeping pills?

The effectiveness of natural sleep remedies may vary from individual to individual. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any sleep medication.

Is there a difference between natural supplements, sleep medicine and sleeping pills?

Supplements are effective natural remedies to help you sleep better. Sleep medicine is a broad term that includes all substances or techniques used to help with sleep, while sleeping pills specifically refer to prescription sleep aids.

How long do sleep supplements take to work?

The time it takes for sleep supplements to work can vary based on the supplement and the individual. Some may feel effects within 30 minutes, while others might take longer.


Sources, Studies, and Scientific Research
  1. Richard, Dawn M., et al. “L-tryptophan: basic metabolic functions, behavioral research and therapeutic indications.” International Journal of Tryptophan Research 2 (2009): IJTR-S2129. ↩
  2. Gâtlan, Anca-Mihaela, and Gheorghe Gutt. “Sea buckthorn in plant based diets. An analytical approach of sea buckthorn fruits composition: Nutritional value, applications, and health benefits.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18.17 (2021): 8986. ↩
  3. Ghazizadeh, Javid, et al. “The effects of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) on depression and anxiety in clinical trials: A systematic review and meta‐analysis.” Phytotherapy Research 35.12 (2021): 6690-6705. ↩
  4. Fismer, Kate Louise, and Karen Pilkington. “Lavender and sleep: A systematic review of the evidence.” European Journal of Integrative Medicine 4.4 (2012): e436-e447. ↩
  5. Nazhand, Amirhossein, et al. “Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.): An updated overview on its beneficial properties.” Forests 11.5 (2020): 564. ↩
  6. Ngan, Alice, and Russell Conduit. “A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled investigation of the effects of Passiflora incarnata (Passionflower) herbal tea on subjective sleep quality.” Phytotherapy Research 25.8 (2011): 1153-1159. ↩
  7. Schiller, H., et al. “Sedating effects of Humulus lupulus L. extracts.” Phytomedicine 13.8 (2006): 535-541. ↩
  8. Hidese, Shinsuke, et al. “Effects of L-theanine administration on stress-related symptoms and cognitive functions in healthy adults: a randomized controlled trial.” Nutrients 11.10 (2019): 2362. ↩
  9. Xie, Zizhen, et al. “A review of sleep disorders and melatonin.” Neurological research 39.6 (2017): 559-565. ↩
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