Sleep Aids

Capsule and softgel formulas make up the heart of the section. Most are multi-ingredient blends — New Roots' Sleep 8 takes its name from the eight ingredients inside — combining botanicals long associated with evening calm alongside ingredients like melatonin. Formats each have fans: Natural Factors' coated softgels are designed to be gentle going down, while Healthology's Sleep-Great and Botanica's Deep Sleep keep things to a simple vegetarian capsule. Compare labels to see which combination of ingredients suits your evening.

Format matters more with sleep products than almost anywhere else in the store. If swallowing a capsule right before bed doesn't appeal, Naka Platinum's sublingual spray delivers its formula in a pleasant berry flavour with no water needed — easy to keep on the nightstand. Sprays also suit shoppers who like flexibility in the evening. Whichever you choose, follow the label's directions on timing, since most sleep formulas are meant to be taken a set stretch before lights-out.

Don't overlook the non-supplement route. Badger's lavender-and-bergamot sleep balms, in travel and full sizes, are simple aromatherapy — a small circle rubbed on temples or pulse points as part of a wind-down habit. Many shoppers pair a balm with dimmed lights, a warm drink and a consistent bedtime, then add a supplement only if they want one. If sleep has been a stubborn, ongoing struggle, it's worth a conversation with your health-care practitioner as well as a browse of this shelf.