Natural sleep gummies have taken off, and the shelf can be confusing, valerian, magnesium, melatonin, big promises on every label. Here's how to choose a sleep gummy in Australia, and where ours fit in.

First, set your expectations

Sleep gummies are a gentle, natural way to support winding down at the end of the day. They work best as part of a calming routine and over consistent nights, rather than as an instant switch-off. They aren't a treatment for a sleep disorder, so if you regularly can't fall or stay asleep, it's worth talking to your doctor.

What to look for in a sleep gummy

• A calming ingredient that matches your problem. The two main natural options are valerian, a herb traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to support restful sleep and calm the mind, and magnesium, a mineral that supports normal nervous system function and helps the body relax.
• Gentle and non-habit-forming. Valerian is well-tolerated and non-habit-forming, which is a big part of its appeal.
• Honest, measured claims. Be a little wary of anything marketed as a heavy knock-out. The natural options work by helping you wind down, not by sedating you.
• A flavour you'll keep reaching for. A gummy you enjoy is one you'll take consistently, which is what matters most with sleep support.
• Where it's made. Look for products made in Australia to a recognised standard. Ours are made here, in a TGA-licensed facility.

Valerian or magnesium?

They support sleep from different angles, so match them to what's keeping you up:

• Valerian is the targeted wind-down. It suits people whose main hurdle is a busy mind that won't switch off at night.
• Magnesium is the all-rounder. It suits people who carry tension physically, get the odd muscle cramp, or want a foundational daily mineral that supports relaxation along the way.

They aren't an either/or. Plenty of people take magnesium daily for general support and use valerian as part of their nightly routine.

Our sleep gummies

• Sweet Dreams Gummies are built around valerian (40mg per serve) in a natural passionfruit flavour. They're 100% sugar-free and made on a pectin base, so they're vegan- and vegetarian-friendly.
• Magnesium Gummies provide 150mg of well-absorbed magnesium citrate per serve in a berry flavour, and are vegan- and vegetarian-friendly.

Both are made in Australia in our TGA-licensed facility. Chew two as part of your evening wind-down, and stay consistent.

The habits that do the heavy lifting

A gummy is one piece of the puzzle. Keep a consistent sleep and wake time, dim the lights and put screens away an hour before bed, keep your room cool and dark, and ease off caffeine from the afternoon.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best sleep gummy? The one that matches what's disrupting your sleep. A racing mind points to valerian; physical tension or wanting broad daily support points to magnesium.

Do sleep gummies work? The natural options are a gentle way to support winding down, and they work best taken consistently as part of a calming routine. For the evidence behind valerian, see our dedicated guide.

Are sleep gummies habit-forming? Valerian is non-habit-forming, meaning it isn't something your body comes to depend on. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication, check with your health professional first.

Valerian or magnesium, which should I pick? Valerian for a busy mind, magnesium for physical tension or general daily support. Many people use both.

When should I take them? As part of your evening wind-down, and consistently, night to night.

Learn more

• Valerian: how does it help for better sleep?
• Does magnesium help you sleep?
• Sweet tips for a sweet sleep

Written by the Haircarebear team. Reviewed by Katie van der Mye, Innovations Manager (BA, MPRA, MM).

This article is general information only and isn't medical advice. Please speak with your health professional about your individual needs.

Sources: 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis of valerian for sleep (Shinjyo et al.); reviews and trials on magnesium and sleep quality.