Herb (sleep)
Valerian
Valeriana officinalis
Valerian is a heavyweight sleep herb. The smell is strong, like wet socks, so most kids reject the tea, but capsules work for older kids. Use it for short-term sleep crises, not nightly.
Typical pediatric dose
Capsule: 200-300 mg one hour before bed for kids 10+. Not recommended for younger kids without practitioner guidance.
Safety notes
Can cause vivid dreams or daytime grogginess. Don't combine with sedatives or alcohol. Stop two weeks before surgery.