Using Valerian Root as a Sleep Aid. Part of the series: Chinese Herbal Remedies. Valerian root has often been used as a sleep aid, as it decreases the breakdown of GABA neurotransmitters in the body to help calm the nervous system. Take between a half and a full teaspoon of Valerian root before bed with advice from a licensed acupuncturist and Chinese medicine herbalist in this free video on alternative medicine. Read more: www.ehow.com/video_6191273_using-valerian-root-sleep-aid.html