WHITE PLAINS, N.Y.—ConsumerLab.com recently tested valerian root supplements and found only two products passed its testing methodologies. Out of nine products randomly selected for review, the majority of products failed to meet label claims for key valerian compounds. In addition, three products were contaminated with lead, although the amounts present in the supplements would be unlikely to cause toxicity alone. According to ConsumerLab, these results were similar to those found by the organization when it tested valerian supplements in 2001, 2004 and 2006.
ConsumerLab includes the names of companies involved in the reviews in its general news releases, but doesn’t indicate which ones passed or failed testing, nor the levels of active ingredients in the products. However, the reports with complete findings are available for purchase from ConsumerLab.
The report valerian supplements provides findings for nine supplements randomly selected for testing, as well as one additional product that passed the same testing under ConsumerLab.com’s Voluntary Certification Program, whereby companies can pay to have their products tested by ConsumerLab. The report also includes information about the science behind valerian for use in addressing anxiety and sleep, differences in dosages and potential drug interactions.
