Difficulty Sleeping
The Best Clinically Proven Sleep Supplements for Menopausal Women
Menopause can make getting a good night’s sleep feel impossible. Hot flashes, anxiety, and hormonal changes all contribute to insomnia and restless nights. While lifestyle changes can help, clinically-backed sleep supplements may provide much-needed relief.
But which ones actually work?
We’ve ranked the top scientifically proven sleep supplements for menopause, based on clinical research and effectiveness.
1. Melatonin – Best for Resetting Sleep Cycles
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Clinically Proven? ✅ Yes – Backed by multiple studies for regulating sleep-wake cycles.
Melatonin is a natural hormone that tells your body when it’s time to sleep. During menopause, melatonin production declines, making it harder to fall and stay asleep.
Scientific Backing
- Studies show melatonin improves sleep quality and reduces time to fall asleep. (source)
- Research suggests it works best for circadian rhythm disorders, like insomnia and waking up too early.
Recommended Products
- 💰 Budget: Nature’s Bounty Melatonin 3mg
- 🏆 Best Overall: Natrol Advanced Sleep Melatonin 10mg
- 🔥 Most Popular: Zarbee’s Natural Sleep with Melatonin
🚫 Who Should Avoid? Women with autoimmune diseases or taking blood thinners.
2. Magnesium – Best for Relaxation & Muscle Recovery
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Clinically Proven? ✅ Yes – Shown to improve sleep quality by calming the nervous system.
Magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitters like GABA, which promotes relaxation and better sleep.
Scientific Backing
- Studies show magnesium deficiency is linked to insomnia and supplementing with it reduces night-time awakenings. (source)
- Research suggests Magnesium Glycinate is the best form for sleep and relaxation.
Recommended Products
- 💰 Budget: Nu U Magnesium Citrate
- 🏆 Best Overall: Magnesium Glycinate by SMNutrition
- 🔥 Most Popular: BetterYou Magnesium Oil Goodnight Spray
🚫 Who Should Avoid? Those with kidney disease or low blood pressure.
3. L-Theanine – Best for Anxiety-Related Sleep Issues
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Clinically Proven? ✅ Yes – Research shows it calms the mind without causing drowsiness.
L-Theanine, an amino acid found in tea, reduces stress and promotes deep relaxation without making you groggy the next morning.
Scientific Backing
- Studies confirm L-Theanine helps lower anxiety and improve sleep quality. (source)
- Works best when combined with magnesium.
Recommended Products
- 💰 Budget: Double Wood L-Theanine
- 🏆 Best Overall: NOW Supplements L-Theanine 200mg
- 🔥 Most Popular: Suntheanine Patented L-Theanine
🚫 Who Should Avoid? People taking blood pressure medications.
4. Valerian Root – Best for Staying Asleep
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Clinically Proven? ✅ Partially – Some studies show benefits, but research is mixed.
Valerian root is a natural sedative used for centuries to promote sleep. It increases GABA levels, similar to how sleep medications work, but in a gentler way.
Scientific Backing
- Some research shows valerian improves sleep latency and quality, but other studies report inconsistent results. (Source)
- Works best when taken consistently for several weeks.
Recommended Products
- 💰 Budget: Nature’s Way Valerian Root 500mg
- 🏆 Best Overall: Swanson Valerian Root Extract
- 🔥 Most Popular: Holland & Barrett Valerian Sleep Aid
🚫 Who Should Avoid? People taking sedatives or anti-anxiety medications.
5. Ashwagandha – Best for Stress-Induced Sleep Issues
⭐⭐⭐
Clinically Proven? ✅ Yes – Research supports its role in reducing cortisol (stress hormone).
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps the body handle stress, making it ideal for menopause-related anxiety and sleep issues.
Scientific Backing
- Studies show Ashwagandha significantly improves sleep quality and stress response. (Source)
Recommended Products
- 💰 Budget: Fushi Organic Ashwagandha
- 🏆 Best Overall: Pukka Wholistic Ashwagandha
- 🔥 Most Popular: Nutravita Ashwagandha KSM-66
🚫 Who Should Avoid? Women with thyroid issues. Those taking certain anxiety meds.
Final Thoughts: Which Sleep Supplement Should You Try?
If you’re struggling with menopausal sleep problems, these supplements may help:
✔ For resetting sleep cycles: Melatonin
✔ For relaxation & muscle recovery: Magnesium
✔ For stress and anxiety: L-Theanine or Ashwagandha
✔ For staying asleep longer: Valerian Root
💡 Pro Tip: The best results come from combining supplements. For example, a magnesium + L-Theanine combo works great for relaxation, while melatonin + valerian may help you fall and stay asleep.
Important Disclaimer
The information in this blog is based on my personal research and opinion. While the supplements mentioned are clinically studied and have shown promising results in sleep improvement, everyone’s body reacts differently.
Before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are on medications, have pre-existing health conditions, or are unsure about potential interactions, please consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional.
This post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.