Man laying in bed holding large jar of sleep vitamins

Top 5 Natural Sleep Aid Supplements for Men (Without Melatonin)

Updated October 23, 2023 by Scott Lindsay

Choosing a Natural Sleep Aid Without Melatonin

I think I’ve tried almost everything when it comes to sleep.  From wacky crystals to powerful chemicals cocktails (legal, of course!). 

You name it … I’ve tried it. 

But I always came back to natural remedies.

It’s likely you’re in the same boat.  Some assortment of sleep issues are negatively impacting your daily life. 

It’s not really surprising.

Sleep disorders have become an expected outcome of our fast paced, modern world.

Today, we're going to dive deep into the world of sleep aids - particularly natural sleep aids - to help you get the best sleep possible.  But don’t worry, I did the heavy lifting already. I tested a few dozen options myself… and researched the reviews of a few dozen more … to come up with today’s list.

So give me the next seven minutes.  You might just discover your next game-changing natural sleep supplement that you can add to your Slumber Stack Protocol.

This post is by Scott Lindsay, who has personally explored hundreds of sleep remedies.  Scott has also analyzed thousands of real user reviews to provide accurate recommendations.  This guide aims to offer reliable suggestions based on read experiences and user feedback.

Note that we are NOT affiliated with any of the products below and do NOT receive any compensation for our recommendation.

It's always wise to talk with a healthcare professional before trying new supplement.

Key Takeaways

  • Not only are there many Melatonin-free options out there that can help you sleep better - many are just as effective, without the side effects.

  • Natural substances like Magnesium, Valerian Root, and even CBD can serve as effective sleep aids – we’ll review them all.

  • As always, this information is purely for informational purposes.  You should always consult with a healthcare provider before trialing any new sleep supplement - especially for those diagnosed with sleep disorders.

Sleep Aids Without Melatonin

You can’t search for a sleep supplement these days without the term melatonin jumping to the forefront.  It’s almost synonymous with sleep these days.

But what if melatonin isn't your jam?

Maybe you've found that it just doesn’t work for you?  Or maybe it knocked you out, but you still feel like a load of badger crap the next morning?  (My views on melatonin are no secret)

Well, I’ve got good news for you - melatonin-free sleep aids do exist and yes, many men report dramatic increases in their sleep quality with these supplements.

So let’s have a look at the top 5 that I discovered based on positive reviews published online:

#1. Natural Vitality Calm Sleep

First up, and my favourite, Natural Vitality Calm Sleep.  The magnesium supplement is pure magic, in my humble opinion.

Not only does magnesium help you wind down for sleep, but it plays a vital role in over 300 biological functions. Unfortunately, many sources list magnesium deficiency as one of the #1 nutritional deficit in the western world today. 

In fact, the National Institute of Health supports the role of magnesium in improving sleep quality – it’s deficiency is such a common culprit. The fact that promote sleep, but it can also positively impact your overall health.

It’s one that I always look to first when poor sleep is the symptom.  The fact that is can has have a positive impact on overall health while also helping to promote sleep is a definite bonus.

Here’s the scale that I’ll use for each of the five supplements below.  Keep in mind, these ratings are subjective, but are also based on the reviews of thousands of real users.

  • Effectiveness in falling asleep quickly: 4/4 stars

The ability to be able to fall asleep quickly is one of the most common comments men rave about with this supplement.


  • Effectiveness in sleeping deeply: 3.5/4 stars

The next most common comment is the sense that they achieved a deeper, more restful sleep.


  • Wake up refreshed: 3.5/4 stars

No point in a sleep supplement knocking you out if you still feel like crap the next morning.  The large number of reviews highlighting feeling refreshed the next morning was impressive.


  • Quality of ingredients: 3.5/4 stars

Men consistently called out the high-quality ingredients.  Very few mentioned any adverse reactions.

Final Rating: 3.6/4 stars

I’m giving this one my highest rating on this list. The extremely positive reviews were almost 10 to 1 versus anything negative.  And even the majority of those negative reviews still noted at least some improvement in sleep quality.

#2. Aveela Melatonin-Free Sleep Patches

This is a new one that I hadn’t yet tried … but definitely found intriguing. Aveela Melatonin-Free Sleep Patches is not a pill or a liquid, it’s a sticker!

Stick one of these bad boys on your arm or back, and you're good to go. The manufacturer claimes that the natural herbs in these patches will be absorbed through the skin … and that this process avoids any direct tampering with the body’s natural melatonin production.

Let’s see what men had to say …

  • Effectiveness in falling asleep quickly: 3.5/4 stars

Surprisingly, the majority of men did indeed claim that they feel asleep easily soon after applying the patch.


  • Effectiveness in sleeping deeply: 3/4 stars

Reviews were hit and miss here, but the majority of users did say they slept more deeply.


  • Wake up refreshed: 2.5/4 stars

As above, a bit hit and miss here, but I’m giving it 2.5 stars.  The majority claimed to wake up feeling great.  Many of the negative reviews to this point claimed they started to feel better once they ‘got used to it’.  Not sure what that means … hence the loss of half a point.


  • Quality of ingredients: 4/4 stars

I was impressed with the ingredient list of natural herbs and toxin-free composition.  Reviewers seemed happy as well.

Final Rating: 3.2/4 stars

Man sitting on the end of his bed with a large jar of sleep vitamins

#3. Yogi Tea

Sipping a hot cup of tea is a traditional part of sleep hygiene in many cultures.  Yogi Tea is a popular choice that combines herbs like Valerian Root, Chamomile, and Lavender. These herbs have been used for centuries all over the world due to their calming and sleep-inducing properties.

Yogi Tea claims to create a delicious and tranquil experience, making it easier for you to relax, release tension, and ultimately, sleep better. Tea has never been my … well, cup of tea … but it seems that many men are using this blend to assist with their sleep issues.

Here’s what they say …

  • Effectiveness in falling asleep quickly: 2.5/4 stars

Some men mention that it takes a while for the effects kick in.  Once it does, however, it's effective.


  • Effectiveness in sleeping deeply: 3/4 stars

Again, for the men that find this effective, a deeper sleep appears to one of the benefits.


  • Wake up refreshed: 3/4 stars

Many men found that they woke up feeling well-rested.


  • Quality of ingredients: 3.5/4 stars

The blend of natural herbs and spices receives high marks from me for quality.

Final Rating: 3/4 stars

#4. Swanson Stress Support

Swanson Stress Support is another melatonin-free sleep aid that uses a mix of time-tested herbs like Valerian Root and Chamomile, known for their ability to reduce stress and anxiety. No surprise that stress is often the villain behind sleepless nights, so by tackling stress, you indirectly improve your chances of a restful sleep.

If drinking tea isn’t for you, you might find these capsules more to your liking …

  • Effectiveness in falling asleep quickly: 3/4 stars

A mix of reviews, but majority saying they fell asleep faster, especially during stressful times.


  • Effectiveness in sleeping deeply: 3/4 stars

Many claims of a deeper more restful sleep.  Again users seemed to be inclined to try this supplement when they felt they were under a lot of stress (hence the name)


  • Wake up refreshed: 2.5/4 stars

Mileage seemed to vary on this one, with many users mentioning slight grogginess.


  • Quality of ingredients: 3.5/4 stars

Again, a nice blend of high quality, natural ingredients.

Final Rating: 3/4 stars

#5. Serious Rest CBD Gummies

CBD is definitely a buzzword these days in sleep circles.  Serious Rest CBD Gummies is one that I found interesting.

CBD, or Cannabidiol, is being increasingly studied for its many potential health benefits - including sleep. These gummies are a flavorful option that are, of course, fee from melatonin.

But did men find them useful?

  • Effectiveness in falling asleep quickly: 3.5/4 stars

A lot of claims that these gummies helped users to fall asleep quickly.

  • Effectiveness in sleeping deeply: 3.5/4 stars

Those same men felt they slept more soundly as well.

  • Wake up refreshed: 3/4 stars

Users generally reported waking up feeling refreshed, though quite a few did say it wasn’t perfect.

  • Quality of ingredients: 3/4 stars

While many appreciate the natural aspect of CBD, some are still wary due to the perceived ‘stigma’.  It’s tough to get an objective measure on this one … but this does seem like a reputable company.

Final Rating: 3.25/4 stars

A sleeping man dreaming of sleep supplements

More Natural Sleep Aids for Men

Sometimes the simplest things can make the biggest difference. Not everyone wants or needs to turn to a ‘combination’ supplement for a good night's sleep. Some natural sleep aids are powerful in their simplicity.

If you’re looking for a more ‘traditional’ solutions, you might want to start with one of these options …

#1. Valerian Root

Valerian Root has been around since our cave dwelling days and is well-known for its sedative properties.  More recently, its sedative properties have been backed by scientific studies as well. (One interesting area of study is looking at its effectiveness for those experiencing sleep disorders linked to anxiety)

Millions of people claim that Valerian Root helps to improve the speed of falling asleep, depth of sleep, and overall quality of sleep.

Source: Bent, S., Padula, A., Moore, D., Patterson, M., & Mehling, W. (2006). Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The American journal of medicine, 119(12), 1005-1012.

#2. Lavender

My wife loves lavender for the smell; I love it for sleep.  What happens when we combine those two?

Researchers have been exploring how inhaling lavender oil can positively affect heart rate, blood pressure, and stress levels.  All helping you relax and slip into a restful sleep, of course.

Source: Koulivand, P. H., Khaleghi Ghadiri, M., & Gorji, A. (2013). Lavender and the nervous system. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013.

#3. Passionflower

This is another flowering herb that has been studied for its potential benefits in reducing anxiety and perhaps insomnia. Some studies claim that consuming passionflower tea before bed can have a significant impact on sleep quality, providing a natural route to tackle sleep issues.

Studies have also shown that Passionflower might be able to increase levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep.

Source: Dhawan, K., Kumar, S., & Sharma, A. (2001). Anti-anxiety studies on extracts of Passiflora incarnata Linneaus. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 78(2-3), 165-170.

#4. Glycine

Glycine is an amino acid that also acts as a neurotransmitter.  One researcher said that is “influences our body’s sleep architecture”.

According to that research, glycine has been shown to not only help people fall asleep more quickly but also to improve the overall quality of their sleep.

Source: Bannai, M., Kawai, N., Ono, K., Nakahara, K., & Murakami, N. (2012). The effects of glycine on subjective daytime performance in partially sleep-restricted healthy volunteers. Frontiers in neurology, 3, 61.

#5. Cannabidiol (CBD)

We discussed a specific brand above, but I believe the general CBD industry warrants a callout here.  It’s definitely a hot topic in health and wellness circles, particularly for its potential benefits in sleep support. While research is still in its early stages, preliminary findings are promising, especially for those grappling with sleep disorders.

Source: Shannon, S., Lewis, N., Lee, H., & Hughes, S. (2019). Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. The Permanente Journal, 23, 18-041.

Benefits of Natural Sleep Aids for Men

Making the choice to ‘go natural’ with your sleep aid choices isn't just a fad; I consider it a health choice backed by numerous advantages. Most notably, natural sleep aids (especially ones without melatonin) often have fewer side effects and lower dependency risks than prescription sleep medications.  To me, this makes them a generally safer alternative as a possible longer-term solution.

How to Choose the Best Sleep Supplement Without Melatonin

The world of sleep supplements is vast – heck, we just listed five here and that’s not even the tip of the iceberg.  This can make choosing the right one seem overwhelming.

While I hope one or two of the options here can begin to steer you in the right direction, a consultation with a healthcare provider can assist in guiding you through the process.  They might be able to help you pinpoint the best sleep aid tailored to your needs and identify any underlying health conditions.

FAQs

Q: What are the top 5 natural sleep aid supplements for men (without melatonin)?

A: In my opinion, and based on a meta-analysis of online reviews from real users, the top 5 natural brands are listed above.

 As far as simple, single ingredient options, you might consider: are magnesium, valerian root extract, passionflower extract, chamomile extract, and lavender oil.

Q: Can I take melatonin supplements along with these natural sleep aids?

A: It is always recommended to consult with your doctor before combining different supplements. He or she will be able to provide the best advice based on your individual needs and health condition.

Q: How do natural sleep aids work?

A: Most natural sleep aids claim to promote relaxation and induce sleep through various mechanisms. For example, magnesium supplements can help relax muscles, while valerian root extract can have a calming effect on the nervous system.  Both pathways increasing the potential for better sleep.

Q: Are these natural sleep aids as effective as prescription sleep medications?

A: Natural sleep aids may not be as potent as prescription sleep medications, but many men choose them as they view them as safer and milder.  Also, many men do, in fact, claim to have found even better benefits in natural alternatives. It's important to find the right sleep aid that works for you.

Q: Can I take these natural sleep aids if I have sleep apnea?

A: If you have sleep apnea or any other sleep disorder, it is crucial that you consult with a healthcare professional before taking any sleep aids, even natural ones. They will be able to provide appropriate guidance based on your specific condition.

Q: Can I use these natural sleep aids every night?

A: While manufacturers claim that it is generally safe to use natural sleep aids on a nightly basis, it is always a good idea to follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult with your healthcare provider – especially if you have any concerns or underlying medical conditions.

Q: Are there any side effects associated with these natural sleep aids?

A: While natural sleep aids are generally safe, they may still cause side effects in some individuals.  This can depend on factors such as dosage and individual sensitivity. Some of the more common side effects reported can include drowsiness, headache, and gastrointestinal issues.

Q: How long does it take for these natural sleep aids to take effect?

A: The time it takes for natural sleep aids to take effect will definitely vary depending on the individual and the specific supplement. Some supplements may take effect within 30 minutes to an hour, while others may require consistent use over a few days or weeks to see noticeable results.

Q: Are these natural sleep aids addictive?

A: Unlike certain prescription sleep medications, manufacturers claim that natural sleep aids are generally non-addictive. However, it is always important to use them as directed and to talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about dependence or addiction.

Conclusion

Improving your sleep quality might not require a sleep prescription. Millions of men world-wide are finding that natural sleep aids can offer a wide range of options to suit different needs and preferences. From Valerian Root to CBD Gummies, the sleep world is your oyster!

Here’s to better sleep – and awesome mornings – ahead!  Grab the breakthrough protocol here.

Note: This blog post is informational and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Comments

Scott Lindsay, founder of Jack Slumbers Sleep Co., has substantial expertise in  reviewing articles and studies in the sleep space, backed by academic qualifications in Cellular, Molecular, & Microbial Biology and Neuroscience.

His deep understanding of human physiology is mirrored through his extensive experimentation with various sleep-enhancement methods.

Jack Slumbers, initiated from a passion to assist others in achieving better sleep, serves as a platform for sharing practical insights and tips.

Scott's personal journey of overcoming sleep challenges amplifies his authenticity, making him a reliable source in the sleep domain.

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Scott Lindsay

Author & Founder of Jack Slumbers Sleep Co.

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