Difficulty falling asleep rarely has a single cause — for most people, several mechanisms are disrupted at once: a circadian rhythm thrown off by screens and artificial light, excessive mental activity at bedtime, and insufficient sleep pressure from accumulated stress. Supplements containing only melatonin address just the first of these mechanisms, leaving the other two unaddressed.

This complex was specifically formulated to cover all three: natural melatonin restores the darkness signal, L-theanine calms mental hyperactivity without next-morning grogginess, and valerian reinforces sleep pressure to ease the transition into the first sleep cycle — a synergy more effective than any single active alone.

Each ingredient was chosen based on clinical research and dosed at the level used in that research. Natural melatonin extracted from St John’s Wort (1.9 mg per dose) matches the physiological dose validated by studies and compliant with French regulation. L-theanine BeTheanine, standardised to 40% pure L-theanine, is present at 200 mg, the exact dose used in research showing a significant increase in alpha brain waves.

Valerian, standardised to 0.7% valerenic acid (300 mg extract, 21 mg valerenic acid), rounds out the formula by acting on the GABAergic system — a clinical-dose approach that sets this complex apart from many under-dosed or non-standardised formulas on the market.

Take 2 capsules a day, 30-45 minutes before bed, at a consistent time where possible, with a large glass of water in a calm setting — ideally with dimmed lights and screens off to support melatonin’s action. For occasional sleep-onset difficulty (jet lag, a stressful period), a 7-15 day course is usually enough; for recurring difficulty, a 4-week course can be considered, followed by a week’s break before repeating if needed.

A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Not recommended for people on medication, particularly antidepressants, immunosuppressants, anticoagulants or oral contraceptives, due to the St John’s Wort content. Do not combine with other sources of melatonin, to avoid overdosing. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Consult a healthcare professional if in doubt. Store in a cool, dry place, away from light.

How quickly does the Chronobio Sleep Onset Complex work?

All three actives are quickly absorbed — L-theanine crosses the blood-brain barrier in around 30 minutes, melatonin reaches peak plasma levels in 20-40 minutes, and valerian starts acting in the same window. A noticeable effect on ease of falling asleep is generally felt 30-45 minutes after taking it; for best results, take the capsules in a calm, dimly lit setting.

Is this complex habit-forming?

No. The formula was designed to avoid dependency. Melatonin is present at a physiological dose (1.9 mg), L-theanine gently modulates neurotransmitters without permanently changing their balance, and valerian doesn’t cause tolerance. We still recommend a week’s break between extended 4-week courses.

Can this be combined with the Deep Sleep nREM Complex?

Yes, the two formulas are complementary. The Sleep Onset Complex specifically targets falling asleep faster, while the Deep Sleep nREM Complex acts on the quality and depth of sleep once you’re asleep — together covering the whole sleep cycle. However, the Sleep Onset Complex should not be combined with other sources of melatonin.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.