I took the Kalms Night One-A-Night sleep aid for a week in the hope that it would help tame the insomnia and anxiety that had crept back into my life.
If you’re interested in trying a herbal remedy to help you relax or sleep better, Kalms is a well-known brand in the United Kingdom. You can buy it over the counter in many shops and pharmacies, such as Boots and Holland & Barrett.
Kalms Night contains valerian root extract as the main ingredient, which is also used in several other sleep aids, such as Sominex Herbal and Nytol Herbal.
In this review, I’ll be discussing my experience of taking Kalms in two different years, and how I felt a mild sedative effect with no side effects both times. I’ll also look at the research evidence that it works and some other key information if you’re thinking of trying it yourself.
My experience
A single tablet that’s easy to swallow
A few months ago, I tried the original Kalms Night version. With that one, you have to take up to four tablets per night instead of just the single one that you take with the aptly named Kalms One-A-Night.
My first impression of the One-A-Night version was that I preferred only having to wash down one tablet. Admittedly, it’s twice the size as each of the Kalms Night tablets, but it’s coated with an artificial sweetener and easy enough to swallow.
Another benefit of it being sweet coated is that you don’t get such a strong valerian taste as you do with similar products, like Nytol Herbal.
Deciding how well it works
Just to be clear, my way of judging how well sleep aids work is very subjective. I don’t do any tests in a sleep lab, and just take them in my natural home setting. I write notes on how I feel after taking them, how I feel in the morning, and how I feel during the day.
I do use a sleep tracker (a Fitbit Versa in this case) to see how my total sleep time and sleep score look compared to previous weeks. However, I prefer to trust my own observations most of all. Experience has taught me that the way I feel the next day is the best way to judge how effective a sleep aid is in improving my well-being.
During the day
I decided to take the Kalms One-A-Night in two different situations to try to really gauge if I could feel any effects – in the middle of the day, and then at night later in the week.
I first tried one in the middle of the day while working on my laptop, for three days in a row. I didn’t notice any sedative effect and I didn’t suddenly become more relaxed after taking them. This doesn’t necessarily mean nothing is happening though as they aren’t meant to knock you out.
It did make me realise that it would be perhaps trickier to judge if they were helping me with anxiety more than sleep though. I’m pretty busy during the day (as is my mind!), so I’m not entirely sure if I’d notice a small effect.
That said, the reality is that I didn’t notice anything special happening. Things that stressed me out continued to stress me out. I know they are supposed to be taken at night, but I was curious to see if I would notice a sedative effect when taking them during the daytime. The answer was no.
How I slept when taking Kalms One-A-Night
On the fourth day, I didn’t take a tablet during the day, but waited until bedtime instead, which is when you’re supposed to take the Kalms One-A-Night really. The clue is in the name!
I took one tablet each night before bedtime for three nights in a row, and I do think I felt a mild sedative effect each night. Whether it was a real sedative effect, placebo effect, or tiredness due to not sleeping well lately is hard to say. I did, however, sleep a little better each night than I had done recently.
My thought in the morning was that it had taken me slightly less time to fall asleep, and that I’d slept throughout the night with less wakings on all three nights. My sleep tracker data also backed that up, though the overall sleep time was only better by a few minutes. Still, every minute counts.
I mentioned that I’ve been having sleep problems recently, which I believe has been caused by feeling under a lot of pressure for various life reasons. Maybe the calming effect of the valerian helped me drift off a little easier, even if I hadn’t noticed much of an effect in the daytime earlier in the week.
No side effects for me
I had no noticeable side effects during the week I took Kalms One-A-Night, which is great. I often get side effects with antihistamine sleep aids, such as a dry mouth, headaches, or groggy feelings in the morning. And melatonin also gives me vivid dreams sometimes.
So I was pleased to see that I could take the Kalms One-A-Night without worrying about needing strong coffee or a cold shower to wake myself up properly in the morning.
Do keep in mind that this was just my experience though; some people might have a reaction to the valerian. For example, Heathline.com discusses possible side effects like heart palpitations, dry mouth, upset stomach, vivid dreams, headaches, and mental fogginess.
My conclusion & would I take it again?
I don’t think the Kalms One-A-Night improved my daytime stress levels, but I do believe I slept slightly better on the nights I took it.
The problem is that it’s so hard to tell whether something which is only meant to have a light effect is actually working or not. As I said, it could be a placebo effect, which has been demonstrated in research studies as a real effect for various health concerns – even pain relief.
It could also be a combination of the placebo effect and any other steps you’re taking to cope with anxiety or sleep problems.
So my belief is that if you think a sleep aid helps, then that’s arguably good enough. You just might never really know for sure exactly how much it’s helping directly, or how much the act of taking a sleep aid is contributing to your confidence that you’ll have less trouble sleeping.
Personally, I would take Kalms One-A-Night again if I needed to because of the (possibly) mild sedative effect, natural herbal ingredient, lack of side effects, low cost, and easy availability.
Eight years later – trying it again
I originally published this article way back in 2014, which is when I first took the Kalms Night One-A-Night. Eight years later, in April 2022, I saw it on a local supermarket shelf and decided to give it another go.
The packaging and information seemed pretty much the same as when I first took it, with the same ingredients. And the effect it had on me was very similar too. This time, I used the latest version of the Fitbit, the Fitbit Versa 3. The sleep tracking has improved, so it was interesting to see if it would show any objective improvement in my sleep.
I took it for a week again, and the effect was very similar (as far as I can remember). No discernible sedation during the day or reduction in stress levels that I could tell. Once again, I do think I felt slightly more relaxed when going to sleep, with both my mental observations and sleep tracker data suggesting a slight improvement in the time it took me to fall asleep, as well as the total sleep time.
Nothing miraculous, with no more than ten minutes more sleep on average each night. Still, that’s ten minutes I’ll gladly take.
Further information
Who makes it?
Kalms is a brand owned by the UK company Lanes Health, which has been operating for over 90 years. They also own several other health product brands, such as Pro Plus and Olbas. You can find out more about them on Laneshealth.com (not a sponsored link).
The five types of Kalms
There are five different types of Kalms. The first two are intended for anxiety during the day, the two night versions to help with sleep, and the latest one is for fatigue.
1. Kalms Day
Kalms Day are made to help with mild anxiety. The ingredients are valerian and hops, and you take two tablets, three times a day. They used to contain gentian as well, but that was removed.
2. Kalms Lavender
Kalms Lavender is a capsule containing lavender oil 80 mg, and is intended to help with anxiety. Lavender does have some research evidence for its sedative properties.
3. Kalms Night
As you’d imagine from the name, Kalms Night are intended to help you sleep. You take four tablets one hour before going to sleep. Each pill contains valerian root extract 96 mg, so you can take less than four if you prefer.
4. Kalms Night One-A-Night
Rather than having the option to take less tablets if needed, Kalms One-A-Night is a single pill at a stronger dosage of valerian root extract 385 mg.
5. Kalms Rhodiola
Kalms Rhodiola was created to help with stress-related symptoms, such as fatigue, exhaustion, and mild anxiety. It’s in tablet form, containing the root of the Rhodiola rosea plant. You take two tablets per day, one before breakfast and one before lunch.
You can find out more about the different products on the Kalmsrange.com website (not a sponsored link).
What evidence is there that Kalms One-A-Night work?
Because it’s classed as a herbal remedy/supplement, UK law doesn’t require Kalms to undergo the same rigorous clinical trials as prescription sleeping pills. The same applies in the United States, for example, where supplements don’t need to be passed as safe and effective in clinical trials either.
So, no scientific research on the effectiveness or safety of Kalms has been done.
However, the gov.uk website does show that Kalms One-A-Night has been granted a traditional herbal registration.
What evidence is there that valerian works?
An alternative avenue to explore is whether the ingredient valerian has been found in any other research to help with sleep. The answer, according to research, could be summarized as ‘sometimes’.
As I wrote in my article about valerian, it does have some research evidence showing a sedative effect, but it’s not consistent from one study to the next.
Interestingly, in 2020, a team of researchers in Japan and the UK conducted a meta-analysis of many previous studies of valerian’s effectiveness for sleep and anxiety to work out why the evidence is so inconsistent.
They suggested that the variable results could be explained by researchers using different quality valerian extracts in each study. They have one positive conclusion that gives some room for optimism:
In conclusion, valerian could be a safe and effective herb to promote sleep and prevent associated disorders. However, due to the presence of multiple active constituents and relatively unstable nature of some of the active constituents, it may be necessary to revise the quality control processes, including standardization methods and shelf life.
Shinjyo et al.
What others say
It’s always interesting to see what other people have to say and to check websites that have large numbers of customer reviews.
When I checked Amazon.co.uk, there were over 700 ratings for Kalms One-A-Night, with an average score of 4.1 out of 5 stars. 57% of people gave it 5 stars and 6% gave it one star.
Many people say they work really well and help them sleep better, while others say they don’t help, or only help a little bit. This is a common pattern with non-prescription sleep aids that I’ve seen with several others.
I read through 50 reviews of each star (which took a while!) and discovered some interesting points about side effects too. Most people didn’t mention any or said that there were none. The most common side effect I read was about strange dreams.
Since first writing this review, there have been many comments from readers describing their experience. Once again, some say it worked well, but others aren’t so convinced.
This raises a key point: it’s very hard to predict whether Kalms One-A-Night will work for you or not.
Your expectations and previous experience of sleeping or anxiety pills might also play a role. If you’ve taken strong prescription medication before, you might find the lighter effect of Kalms just isn’t enough, or takes some adapting to.
However, if you’ve never dabbled in the prescription heavyweights before, then the gentle calming effect might be enough.
Ingredients
As per the instruction leaflet, the active herbal ingredient is:
- Valerian root extract 385 mg (equivalent to 1.54-1.93 g of valerian root).
And the other ingredients are:
- Extraction solvent: Ethanol 60% v/v.
- Excipients: Maltodextrin, Colloidal Anhydrous Silica.
- Core: Croscarmellose Sodium, Magnesium Stearate, Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose, Talc and Silicon Dioxide.
- Coating: Hypromellose, Talc, Titanium Dioxide, Macrogol, Saccharine Sodium.
Warmings
The manufacturer has the following warnings on the patient leaflet:
- Don’t take it if you’re allergic to any of the ingredients.
- Don’t consume excessive amounts of alcohol when you take it.
- Avoid it if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You should avoid driving, operating machinery or tools.
- You should consult your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking, or have recently taken, any other medicines, including those that make you drowsy or any other non-prescription medicines.
Possible side effects of Kalms One-A-Night
The manufacturer only lists two possible side effects. If you experience these or any other adverse symptoms, stop taking them and consult your doctor:
- Nausea.
- Abdominal cramps.
The other versions have different possible side effects, so please make sure you read the label carefully before taking them.
To find out more about the potential side effects of valerian itself, take a look at the WebMD.com article on valerian or the Rxlist.com article.
Have you tried Kalms?
I’m interested to hear your thoughts about any of the Kalms range. Have you tried them, and if so, what effect did they have on you?
Hi just wondering if anyone has been taking the kalms lavender for anxciety I was wondering if they worked for anyone and if he had any side affects as I would like to try them myself as I have anxiety and would like to try this first before going onto any other medication
Hi Rebecca
Thanks for your comment. Lot’s of people do find it works well for anxiety, so there’s no harm in trying them before thinking of stronger medication.
Regards
Ethan
I have been taking the Kalms Lavender tablets, and I have to say I do think that these are quite good. as went to the doctor was described to have anxiety and because I am fit and healthy and work – left with absolutely nothing, apart from him saying for to me go on-line and type in moodjuice a (self help group) who tell you to phone the Samaritans if that bad “yup really helpful”… so I bought these only been taking for 2 days but I do feel slightly better. So would recommend.
Hi Susan
Thanks for your comment. It’s good you’ve had some success with the Kalms. Self-help groups can be useful, so if you do feel like giving it a go some time, you might be surprised!
Ethan
I have been taking the Kalms lavender one a day capsules for anxiety and I’m starting to feel a little calmer but I feel really queasy! Just wondered if this will settle or I should stop taking them?
Hi Abbie
Thanks for your comment. Unfortunately, that sounds to me like your body isn’t tolerating them 100%. It’s your decision, but I personally wouldn’t take a remedy that made me feel sick.
Regards
Ethan
Hi i would like to say i have been taking kalms now for about 3 months ,i take 1 kalm tablet at night about 11 just before i go to sleep , the reason why i take it is because since hitting the menopause i have been suffering teribbly with night terrors/anxiety waking with thoughts of doom and gloom , i will say that the kalms have definatley kalmed my mind down , but i still wake once or twice early hours , i am concerned about taking hem on a regular basis , if they can any bad effects if i do keep taking them . I am going to not take for a couple of nights to see if i am ok without , i will let you know.I also would like to say that i did take once in the day and they just made me feel drowsy.
Hi Coco
Thanks for your comment. Sorry to hear you’ve been suffering from bad sleep and anxiety – it’s never a nice thing to go through regularly. valerian is quite safe for most people to take, though as you say, it’s good not to rely on anything on a daily basis if possible. You could ask your doctor what they think is the best option for you and if you can take them regularly or not.
Regards
Ethan
Is it possible you are having paradoxical reaction to the root? This can be a vicious cycle coz u could be getting the feeling from velerian Nd u keep taking more to relax it. This is what happened to me for a long period. Sonce i stopped taking them it took me about 30 days to get close to my normal self again
Why are they not selling the pocket pack anymore ? They really worked for me much better than these bigger tablets that don’t seem to do anything?
Hi Ezzle
I’m not sure to be honest!
Regards
Ethan
Hi guys
I stared taking kalms day tablets only a few days ago due to bad anxiety insomnia and mood swings.
I have been taking 50mg amytryptaline for 5 years to prevent migraine which used to make me sleep.
I decided to try 2 kalms tablets the other day at work (in a salon) and they mega relaxed me…my heart rate calmed and I felt much less stressed that I had before!
I slept like a baby that night. I continued for another 2 days of 2 pills in the morning but I must say the 3rd day at work I was yawning my head off and felt really exhausted which never happens to me!
I can’t complain as feeling as relaxed definitely is a new thing for me but tomorrow I will try maybe only taking the one pill or missing it all together depending on how well rested and destressed I feel :)
I’ve just came to bed to relax and I’ve taken another pill so if I sleep well I’ll maybe miss out the pills in the morning and try them at night only.
If this works for me I’ll speak to my doctor about getting the weaned off my prescription drugs as I’d love to get to a stage where I could come off them completely!
Kalms so far your a godsend!
Long may it last.
Every individual is different but the active ingredient in kalms literally gives me a herbal valium effect!
Here’s to a more kalm and stressless me ??
Hi Dee
Thanks for your comment. It’s great that the Kalms helped you so much. I hope you manage to get off the other meds, as you say, and continue to sleep better.
Regards
Ethan
I forgot how calm they make me took them years ago now on lorazepam so may be able to come off these all crossed
I’ve just taken 6 of the kalms sleep tablets. The ones for take 4 of before bed, but I am so fed up with rubbish sleep.. I thought an extra 2 wouldn’t harm. I hope it will not harm me. Please can someone reassure?
Hi Emily
Thanks for your comment. I doubt any harm will come to you, but it’s probably better to stick with the recommended dose – especially if higher doses make you anxious in bed!
Regards
Ethan
Yes I started taking Kalms for sleeping, I am 73 yrs old, & my sleeping tablet did very little for me anymore, so I took ONE Kalm tablet, to see if it made any difference..& YES it most certainly did, I only awoke once to visit bathroom, instead of waking up every 2 hrs or so, I tried it 2nd night same thing…they are wonderful, I will continue to take one as a good nights sleep is the best medicine anyone could get…
Hi Eileen
Thanks for your comment. It’s good you find the Kalms helpful!
Regards
Ethan
Hi, i have been on efexor xl for almost 10 years after the sudden death of my husband, i was diagnosed with bi-polar 2 years ago and was put on seraquel which left me constantley tired & spaced out and also gained over 50 lbs, i have young children and decided to wean myself off seraquel over a few months for my children, could not sleep when i finally came off them, decided to try kalms night, take 2 around 3pm and 2 about 8pm, they have been a godsend, finally getting good sleep wake up rested and not groggy, have literally saved my life
Hi Tina
Thanks for your comment. It’s great that you find them so helpful!
Regards
Ethan
I have taken 2 day kalms twice a day on and off for a few yrs now. Its the best thing on earth. No side effects….jus feel relaxed and i sleep very well now.
Hi Nikki
Thanks for your comment. It’s good to hear from someone who finds them useful. Do you take them very regularly, or just when you feel the need?
Regards
Ethan
These do work, it’s basically an herbal Valium, similar effect.I have been taking Kalms day for less than one week and my anxiety level is going down a lot already. I no longer have sweaty hands, breathing is under control, I sleep much better and i am overall less panicky and relaxed. I take 2 x 3 times a day. If you cut with the caffeine and take the pills after eating these can do miracles. Not sure about long term use tho.
Hi there
Thanks for your comment. I’m glad you find the Kalms helpful. I guess you could compare it to Valium, considering the name being so close and they are both sedatives. However, Valium is much, much stronger! I think you’re right in that cutting down on caffeine will also have a positive effect, especially if you suffer from anxiety.
Regards
Ethan
Since i started taking karms i have started getting serviour stomach cramps ,feeling sick plus weird dreams but its the stomach pains that are the worst like a paper weight constantly pressing agaist my stomach
Hi there
Thanks for your comment. I’d definitely stop taking the kalms. You could speak to your doctor too to find out if you have an allergy to valerian.
Regards
Ethan
I get really bad anxiety so I started taking the ones where you take 2 tablets 3 times a day for just over a week leading up to an interview, I felt a bit drowsy the first few days but I think it was a placebo effect. The tablets did not work in the slightest as I was very anxious beforehand and then to top it all off I had a panic attack during the interview. Might just be me but I don’t think they work at all, maybe I just need something stronger
Hi Chloe
Thanks for your comment. Sorry to hear you had a bad experience with the interview. It does seem that it’s a bit of an all or nothing effect with many readers who’ve commented. I hope you find a better way to cope with the anxiety, and have better luck in the next interview.
Regards
Ethan
Since the death of my
Son I’ve struggled to sleep. I’ve had different prescription drugs off the doctor and these helped. However she is reluctant to administer anymore due to them being addictive. I’ve started taking kalms one a night and I manage to get to sleep but cannot stay asleep. Can I take two a night?
Hi Dee
Thanks for your comment. I’m very sorry for your loss, and can understand how it would affect your sleep. I’m not sure that taking 2 kalms would make that much difference. It can take a couple of weeks for valerian to build up in the body and work at its best, so I’d give it a bit more time. Have you thought about trying any self-help options as well as medication? I highly recommend looking into mindfulness. It’s a great way to deal with anxiety and stay calm, both during the day and the night.
Regards
Ethan
Can the three day kalms be taken together rather than one three times a day
Hi Mary
Thanks for your comment. To be honest, I’ve never read anything to say that that’s ok. You could contact Kalms and ask them if you’d like a definite answer.
Regards
Ethan
HI. I’ve been suffering from insomnia and anxiety since the beginning of last week (24/10/2016). The kalms one a night has seemed to of eased the anxiety, however I’m still not sleeping well. I keep having vivid dreams where I wake up all of a sudden and can’t get back to sleep. It’s horrible. As I need my sleep. Should I continue taking these kalms one a night? Will they eventually calm me down into a natural sleep so I won’t keep waking up. Please help. I am also seeing my doctor on Wednesday so could be an idea to mention it.
Hi Kirstin
Thanks for your comment. The bad dreams could be related to the anxiety, so I’d try to take action to lower your anxiety levels before going to bed. Try taking some time to do calming, relaxing things before bed or even when you get into med. You could try some relaxation techniques or meditation and see if that helps. And I’d definitely mention how you’re feeling and the kalms to your doctor. You could keep taking them until then – you should be ok. But it does sound to me like if this is new, tackling the anxiety before going to bed would be a good step.
Regards
Ethan
Hi Ethan,
I’ve just started taking kalms night but unfortunately the side effects are a lot worse than I’d imagined. My dreams were so vivid and I knew I was dreaming but couldn’t wake myself up. I woke up feeling exhausted and also my throat and mouth were parched. Should I continue with them ?
Hi Maha
Thanks for your comment. Sorry to hear you had a bad experience with the Kalms. I don’t think you should continue with them, no. Perhaps you could try a sleep aid without valerian, as it’s likely that’s what caused those side effects.
Regards
Ethan
Hi
looking for something with the ingredients or the ingredients of Kalms but in liquid form for my sister who has a gag reflex with pills. I use Quiet Life but she is unable to swallow the huge tablets
Hi Christina
Thanks for your comment. If you search for liquid valerian online, you’ll find lots of different versions of it.
Regards
Ethan
I have anxiety and a friend recommended to take kalms has anyone taken the lavender ones for anxiety and have had seen a difference with their anxiety?
Hi Rebecca
Thanks for your comment. I have to admit I didn’t even know they now had a lavender version until seeing your comment! I will have to get them and try them out. Perhaps other readers will be able to answer your question for now.
Regards
Ethan
Ive had trouble sleeping the last month or two, if i do sleep i wake up at least twice, and i can never lay in! Ive started taking kalms night time (4pills a night) it seemed to help me drift off this week, still waking once or twice…but im still wide awake this evening! :-( any other suggestions? Am on my second bottle of kalms now so must have been on them a few weeks. Starting to wonder how long i can go on without proper rest!
Hi Helen
Thanks for your comment. I do have lots of suggestions, as I’m a big fan of trying to tackle insomnia naturally. I recommend taking a look at an article I wrote outlining how I dealt with insomnia personally. You might find some new ideas there.
Regards
Ethan
Try Valerian root tea, works excellent for me before bed time relaxes me like a sedative, I go right off to sleep..
My mother has been taking Lorezepam 1 mg for almost 3 years and she can not let-go, neither it is making any effect now. A friend recommended Kalms, can she take It while using Lorezepam? If yes which ones do you recommend?
Hi N K
Thanks for your commment. As far as I’m aware, Valerian based products don’t interact with benzodiazepines like Lorazepam. However, you can speak to a doctor about it just to be sure if you feel the need for reassurance.
You might also find it interesting to read an article I found on the Psycologytoday.com website about using Valerian to come off these medications.
Regards
Ethan
I have be finding it difficult to sleep in the afternoon,i sleep @nite,but I can’t sleep in the afternoon even when I have the time too.a friend recommended kalms, what type do I buy and how do I take it.i see it has varieties
Hi Ella
Thanks for your comment. It may be that your body just doesn’t need to sleep in the afternoon. If you get enough sleep at night, perhaps there’s no need for a nap? To answer your question though, you have three main types. All 3 are herbal, so it’s up to you to decide which one you think would suit you better. However, they aren’t really designed to help with daytime napping. They might help you feel calmer, which might help you sleep. But if you’re just not that tired, they might not help much.
Regards
Ethan
I took kalms for a while and it really help me a lot and are friend said she got are heart attack from taking kalms could this be true or not I don’t know if she was using any other med can u help
Hi Alicia
Thanks for your comment. I doubt Kalms was responsible for your friend’s heart attack. I imagine it was coincidental that she was taking it at the time.
Regards
Ethan
Hi, I take KALMS DAY from this Saturday, today morning I had a problem…stomach and
diarrhea? Is it normal or should I stop taking that? My GP doctor recommend me this because of stress
Hi there
It is possible the Valerian is causing it. If it continued after you wrote this comment, I’d stop taking the kalms and tell your doctor.
Regards
Ethan
Hi how long can you take kalms 1 at night for
Hi Alison
There’s not hard and fast rule about this so I can’t really tell you I’m afraid. Some people do take valerian for a long time, but my opinion is that sleep aids are best taken just for a short time to help you through a period of bad sleep and not used indefinitely.
Regards
Ethan
Hi, has anyone ever had a problem and found a solution with constantly waking up too early (from 4.30am to 6:00am at the latest), no matter what I do?
So far, none of the solutions I’ve found work, not even the one prescribed by one of the doctors. I’ve seen some natural / herbal remedies recommended online, but those are mostly for people, who have problems going to sleep. That’s not my case. I bought Kalms today to try out, though I’ve already had something with Valeriana. Thank you.
Hi Evie
Thanks for your comment. What time do you go to bed usually? And do you ever fall asleep again a while after waking up, or are you awake for the rest of the day once you wake up?
Regards
Ethan
Hi, I have not taken these yet however due to a stressful period at work which is causing extreme anxiety and loss of sleep I need to try something! My only concern is I only want to take these to get me through this period so say 7-14 days however I don’t want to find I’m in a worse state when I stop taking them..I am hoping in a couple of weeks my work life will have calmed down and I will not need them so would it be ok to take them temporarily and then stop or are you likely to have to ween yourself off? Thanks
Hi Hollie
Thanks for your comment. You should be fine as valerian isn’t very strong and doesn’t cause any problems with dependency or tolerance. But you can always take half and then quarter doses for a few days so you feel like you have something extra there for a few days. If stress if a serious problem for you at the moment, I’d also highly recommend taking a look at my article about mindfulness exercises for sleep. You might find it helps along with the valerian and then once you stop it.
Regards
Ethan
I litteraly can’t live without my kalms! They help me with pms and general stress. I take the sleeping ones every night too. Just worrying now that I’ve read the label properly, that I’m not sure I should take both in the same day. But seriously these are my best friend. I don’t need them all the time, but when I do, they just take the edge off. My doc is always trying to feed me meds and I hate being out of control, so, for me these work great.
Hi Chantal
Thanks for your comment. It’s always good to hear from people who had a positive experience with the Kalms. Perhaps if you’re unsure about the dosage, you could run it by your doctor. You could also get in touch with the company directly and ask them.
Regards
Ethan
Hi how long have you been using kalms 1 at night ?
I have just started taking Kalms to help with sleep disturbance I didn’t realise there are different types and have bought and am using the Kalms tablets.
I have found that they seem to help me sleep but I wake up after an hour or two and have a strange need to move my limbs a lot, shaking my legs etc whilst I am still mentally tired. Should I speak to my doctor?
Hi Vanessa
Thanks for your comment. It could be that you’re having a bad reaction to the Valerian. Have you taken anything else with Valerian in the past? I’d stop taking it and see if the sensation goes away. If so, it might just be that you need to avoid Valerian. If it continues, then perhaps speak to your doctor.
Regards
Ethan
I find that kalms night causes constipation
Hi Naomi
Thanks for your comment. Valerian can cause some people abdominal problems, though fortunately it’s not too common. If they cause you problems, it’s better to avoid valerian products in general.
Regards
Ethan
Do Kalms cause palpitations? Both my son and I have had palpitations and also take Kalms. Have now stopped to see if they stop.
Hi Diana
That is a possible side effect from taking valerian, though very rare. I think it’s definitely a good idea to stop taking it, and perhaps find a different sleep aid if you’re interested in herbal remedies.
Regards
Ethan
I find kalms really help me just started to take kalm nights 1 a night one. Can you take them along side the day ones?
Hi Danny
Thanks for your comment. That’s a good question. I can’t imagine it would cause any real problems. But if you want to be sure, I’d check either with your doctor or get in touch with the company themselves and get their opinion.
Sorry I can’t give a definitive answer!
Regards
Ethan
I take the day time Kalms tablets and I feel they help me cope and get through the day as before taking them I had cold sweats and palpitations all the time and felt like i was in a constant state of anxiety. I take them when I start to feel anxious, irritated or angry which stops me from getting manic and panicked. I found they worked well for me and maybe that is because I have never taken any prescription medication. However they don’t help me sleep but I might try the night time ones and see if they help.
Hi Sophie
Thanks for your comment. It’s good that the kalms help you keep relaxed. Have you thought about looking into some self-help approaches to control the anxiety too? I highly recommend trying out mindfulness – it can be very effective for coping with stress and anxiety.
Regards
Ethan
Hey I am re taking my driving test for the third time in a couple of day I have been taking day time kalms and they having been making me feel a lot calmer and happier as I suffer from anxiety, they are also helping my trembles which is a big issue for me! I just want to know how long before my test should I take my first dose as my test is in the morning and also can I should I take my next dose just before?
Hi Beth
Thanks for your comment. I think probably you can take one when you wake up in the morning. If you’re a naturally anxious person, the sooner you deal with the test day nerves, the better. The next dose I would take as per the instructions.
Good luck with the test.
Ethan
I’ve taken Kalms Night on and off over some years. Back on it the last two days. Didn’t work the night before but worked like a charm last night! Slept through the night which I haven’t been able to do for sometime. However, does anyone else feel drowsy during the next day like I do and headache/fuzzy head the next day? Im not okay with the fuzziness. Am I the only one? Thinking of taking one tonight again.
Hi Lola
Thanks for your comment. I’ve had a fuzzy head from using some over the counter sleep aids, but not so much from kalms. Perhaps other readers will reply though with a different experience.
Regards
Ethan
Hello Lola ,im experiencing the same thing next day,.been on kalms for a week 3 per day.they do help me sleep and calm stress of clenching my teeth at night etc.but concerned with the light headed drowsiness that happens next day even if i dont take a tablet.may come off then a few days to see if any better as is a horrible feeling.good luck Bobby
I hate it on a night on my own I get very anxious about things listen out for things that aren’t there etc I can’t sleep in till it gets light but it’s not good when I have kids to get up for.. what would be the best thing to take that won’t knock me out lol I need to be able to still get up for kids
Hi there
Thanks for your comment. This particular type of Kalms shouldn’t knock you out. The herbal remedy sleep aids are usually much gentler than antihistamines or stronger prescription pills.
Regards
Ethan
I started taking kalms last night… Is it normal to have mild tummy cramps and diarrhoea? I have a phobia of vomiting and that’s why I started kalms to see if it would help me but now I’m getting these cramps I’m even more on edge!?
Hi Taylor
Thanks for your comment. I wouldn’t say it’s normal, but it could be a side effect. If you’re sure it’s being causes by the kalms, I think you’re best off leaving them and trying something else to cope with the phobia. My opinion would be it’s best to get some psychological help to deal with the phobia rather than taking medication to cope with the symptoms of the phobia. Talking therapy like CBT is known to be very helpful for phobias. Try and see if your doctor can recommend someone for you.
Regards
Ethan
I have been stressed with work and studies, not to mentioned the kids. I sometimes feel like things walking in my head. I went to a pharmacy and asked for something to calm me. I know that it was a nerve problem confirmed by two doctors however I was never medicated. I decided to try kalms when I feel this way. Today I took one and immediately 30 minutes after I was feeling relaxed and totally different .
Hi Janet
Thanks for your comment. Sorry to head you’ve been under so much stress. It’s great that the kalms helped you. I’d also suggest trying out mindfulness exercises at night if you need something to help you cope with the mental stress.
Regards
Ethan
Hi. I am taking kalms days now for two weeks and i feel no difference. I am diagnosed with gad generlized anxiety disorder. I am taking 10 mg lexapro a day as well
Hi Maureen
Thanks for your comment. It may be that the Kalms just work for you then. However, valerian can take a couple of weeks too take full effect, so maybe give it a couple of days longer before giving up on them.
Regards
Ethan
Hi I suffer from anxiety every day but I can control it the best I can until now.
I started taking kalms because I had my driving test booked so I figured I would take them 4 weeks before so that it would take effect.
They worked. I felt a lot more at ease and was sleeping better until one day after work waiting for the train I had a massive panic attack and chest pains I thought I was having a heart attack and I ended up in hospital they concluded my heart was fine.
It’s been a week now and every day I’ve had heart palpitations which I’ve never had before and my anxiety is sky high.
I haven’t been able to go to work and I panic just going to the shop.
How long will it be before the valerian leaves my system because I know what I’m experiencing is side affects of the kalms.
Hi Maria
I’m sorry to hear you’ve had that horrible experience. I don’t know exactly how long it takes valerian to leave the average person’s system, but I would be surprised if it’s a week. Considering your symptoms, I’d personally speak to a doctor again to see if they can look into further.
Regards
Ethan
Hi I have my driving test in 2 weeks a have already failed 2 I get so nervous just wondering how long you take them before they start working?
Hi Shireen
Thanks for your comment. Some sources say it takes a while for the valerian to build up in your system properly. But usually they say you can take it an hour to three hours before needing the calming effect. But if you want to be sure, you could take the initial advice and take some for a week or two before the test.
I can fully empathize with you though. I failed my first test because when reverse parking I suddenly got a shaking leg – my clutch leg. And I just couldn’t control it because of the nerves. When I took my second test, it came to the same point and my leg started shaking again! I told the examiner what had happened the first time and that I was just really nervous, but worried I would fail for the same reason. And you know what he did? He told me to turn the engine off, get out of the car, walk around the car once taking deep breaths and then start again. I did that, then parked like a dream. Maybe he was just a particularly kind and understanding individual, I don’t know. But in my mind, if you feel super nervous, perhaps telling them might somehow also make it easier for you. And you never know, maybe you’ll also get an examiner who is kind and says some reassuring words to you.
Best of luck with it!
Regards
Ethan
Shireen
I totally understand you on this one, funnily enough I passed my driving test the day after you posted that comment…. I was a bag of nerves but I used rescue remedy just as a started my pre test lesson and then 5 mins before the test I used it again. I had no nerves, it’s like they miraculously decided to go somewhere else! I do take KALMS too but rescue remedy seems to act quicker for me, give it a go…. And good luck! You’ll pass!
To be honest I hate taking tablets however I bought a week supply which supposed to be taken twice daily , however I would only take when I feel nervous or, stressed or anxiety . I took this four times one pill , I also gave one to my husband who could not sleep a particular night he took it and slept later than usual .It may react differently to different people . However I believe this works