Firstly, Kalms Day is a small, sugar-coated tablet that carries two plant extracts. So each dose brings valerian root together with hops in one product. In particular, this blend has been used in the UK for generations. Furthermore, the current pack is registered with the MHRA as a traditional herbal medicinal product (THR 01074/0235).
What THR means, in plain English
THR stands for Traditional Herbal Registration. So a THR product is not a fully licensed medicine. However, it has been reviewed by the MHRA for quality and safety. In particular, its use is based on 30 or more years of traditional use, not on modern clinical trials. As a result, THR products can only claim traditional use, not proven cures.
Kalms Day and Kalms Night: the difference
Kalms Day is for daytime symptoms of stress and mild anxiety. In contrast, Kalms Night is for temporary sleep disturbance. So the two products are made for different times of day. Furthermore, they use different herb balances tuned to their purpose.
Key features and details
Format: sugar-coated tablets, taken with water after meals.
Pack options: 42, 63, or 84 tablets in blister packs; 96, 100, 168, or 200 tablets in amber glass bottles.
Active ingredients: 26mg dry extract of Valeriana officinalis L. root, plus hops extract, per tablet.
Legal status: Traditional Herbal Registration (THR 01074/0235).
For: adults 18 and over, including the elderly.
Dose: 2 tablets three times a day after meals, with water.
Maximum daily dose: 6 tablets in 24 hours.
Duration: 2 to 4 weeks. Speak to a doctor if symptoms have not improved after 4 weeks.
Storage: below 25°C, in the original pack, out of direct sunlight.
NOT for: anyone under 18, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or use alongside sedative medicines.
Additional information
Pack size
96 tablets, 168 tablets
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Kalms Day tablets, a traditional herbal option for busy, stress-filled days
Kalms Day tablets are a traditional herbal medicine used for the temporary relief of symptoms of mild anxiety, stress, and worrying. So they are a self-care option for short-lived, everyday stress. Each tablet carries dry extracts of valerian root and hops. As a result, this is one of the longest-established herbal anxiety options in the UK.
When to see a doctor rather than self-treat with Kalms Day
Kalms Day is for mild, short-lived symptoms of anxiety and stress. So some situations need proper medical review, not a herbal tablet:
Anxiety that has not improved after 4 weeks of taking Kalms Day.
Panic attacks, or anxiety that stops you working, sleeping, or leaving the house.
New or worsening low mood, hopelessness, or thoughts of self-harm.
Palpitations, chest pain, or sweating that could point to a heart or thyroid issue.
Anxiety in anyone under 18 (Kalms Day is only for adults).
Anxiety in pregnancy or breastfeeding (Kalms Day is not for these).
Anxiety that started after a bereavement, trauma, or major life event.
For life-threatening symptoms, call 999. For urgent but non-emergency worries, call NHS 111 or your GP. In particular, if you have thoughts of self-harm, call Samaritans on 116 123 (free, any time).
Five key takeaways about Kalms Day tablets
Kalms Day is a traditional herbal medicine used for temporary mild anxiety, stress, and worrying, based on long-standing use.
Each tablet carries dry extract of valerian root (26mg) plus hops extract.
The standard dose is 2 tablets three times a day after meals, giving 6 tablets a day.
Kalms Day is for adults only (18 and over). So it is not for children, teenagers under 18, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Effects are not immediate. So plan a 2 to 4 week trial. In particular, see your GP if symptoms have not improved after 4 weeks.
What is Kalms Day: overview
A brief history
Kalms tablets have been sold in UK pharmacies for many decades. So the brand is one of the longest-established herbal options in the country. In particular, the valerian-plus-hops combination is a well-known traditional pairing for daytime nervous tension.
The THR scheme, in plain English
The Traditional Herbal Registration scheme was set up by the MHRA in 2011. So it gives UK consumers a way to know a herbal product has been reviewed for quality and safety. In particular, every THR product carries a unique THR number on the pack. Furthermore, the scheme lets you spot a proper regulated herbal medicine among the many unregulated supplements on the market.
What THR claims can (and can’t) say
THR products can say “traditionally used for…” based on 30 or more years of continuous use. However, they cannot make modern efficacy claims (no “clinically proven” wording, no “treats” language). So Kalms Day is described as a traditional remedy for mild anxiety, stress, and worrying, not as a proven anxiety treatment.
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Kalms Day tablets
Registered, independent, and patient-led
Courier Pharmacy is a UK-registered independent pharmacy regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC 9010051). So when you buy Kalms Day through us, you get a proper pharmacy team, not a warehouse. Furthermore, our independence means we can take time on anxiety and stress questions where a large chain often cannot.
Prescriber-led mental health context
At Courier Pharmacy, we take mental health questions seriously. So if a herbal option is not the right pick for you, we can steer you toward the right kind of help. Furthermore, we can flag when the situation needs a GP referral rather than another tablet.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist
Our brand pharmacist is Dr Ada Jex-Cori. She represents the spirit of what we do. Named for Ada Lovelace, Sophia Jex-Blake, and Gerty Cori, she stands for evidence-led, unafraid-of-questions medicine. Her message runs through everything we advise:
You’re not broken. The system is. We’re here to change that.
For anyone who has felt dismissed when asking about anxiety or stress, this matters. So we want to help you find the right level of support, whether that’s a herbal option, talking therapy, or a proper prescription.
Coordinated advice with your other medicines
If you take prescribed medicines (particularly for depression, sleep, or blood pressure), we can flag any concerns about mixing them with a herbal sedative. So the interaction check is included, not an afterthought. In particular, the valerian and hops in Kalms Day can add to the effect of some prescription sedatives.
Care that keeps showing up
Anxiety and stress often come in waves. So we’re here for the follow-up questions along the way: adjusting your approach if Kalms Day doesn’t suit, discussing when to try talking therapy, or flagging when a GP referral would matter more.
Buy Kalms Day Tablets from Courier Pharmacy
Kalms Day tablets are a traditional herbal medicine (THR), available without prescription at courierpharmacy.co.uk. So supply is straightforward. Furthermore, our pharmacy team still reviews every sale as part of our routine check.
If Kalms Day isn’t right for you
If our team thinks a different approach fits your situation better, we’ll explain why and suggest the next best option. So this might mean:
Kalms Lavender One-a-Day if a lavender-based option suits better (also THR-registered).
Kalms Night if the main issue is sleep rather than daytime anxiety.
Rescue Remedy or a similar flower-based product for very short bursts.
Nytol Herbal or Sleepeaze Herbal for occasional sleep support.
A GP referral for talking therapy (CBT), if anxiety needs more than a herbal option.
An SSRI or other prescribed option if the picture points to a proper anxiety disorder.
Above all, we won’t sell you a herbal tablet that isn’t right for your situation. In short, honest guidance matters more than making the sale.
Summary
Kalms Day is a UK traditional herbal medicine.
It carries two plant extracts: valerian root (26mg per tablet) and hops.
It is used for temporary relief of mild anxiety, stress, and worrying, based on long-standing traditional use.
It is not a licensed medicine. So its claims are based on traditional use, not modern clinical trials.
Active ingredients in Kalms Day tablets
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) root
Each tablet contains 26mg of dry extract from valerian root. So valerian is the main active herb in Kalms Day. In particular, valerian has a long history of traditional use for mild anxiety and nervous tension. Furthermore, valerian root is one of the most widely-used calming herbs in European traditional medicine.
Hops (Humulus lupulus)
Hop strobiles have been used in European traditional medicine for centuries. In particular, hops are best known as the plant that flavours beer, but the strobile (the cone-like flower) has also been used for its calming effect. So hops sit alongside valerian in Kalms Day to round out the traditional formulation.
Other ingredients
Kalms Day tablets also contain sugar-coating ingredients (sucrose, talc, various colourings) and standard tablet excipients. So the exact excipient list is on the current pack label and PIL. In particular, people with sugar sensitivity, a lactose intolerance, or specific colouring intolerances should check the pack before buying.
What are Kalms Day tablets for?
Kalms Day is a traditional herbal medicine used for the temporary relief of symptoms of mild anxiety, stress, and worrying. So it is a self-care option for short-lived, everyday stress. In particular, it is helpful in several common situations:
Everyday stress
Deadlines, family pressures, and busy weeks can leave anyone feeling on edge. So Kalms Day is used by many adults as a daytime option during hectic phases. In particular, it is not intended to replace addressing the source of the stress.
Situational anxiety
Short-lived situations (a job interview, a difficult meeting, a public speaking event) can bring temporary anxiety. So some people take Kalms Day ahead of these events. However, do not exceed the daily dose. Furthermore, plan enough time to see how a full dose affects you before the event.
Stress-related worrying
Stress often shows up as running thoughts that won't settle. So Kalms Day is used by some people to take the edge off during high-pressure weeks. In particular, the effect is gentle, not sedating.
Where Kalms Day is not the right choice
However, some situations need a doctor, not a herbal tablet:
Panic disorder or generalised anxiety disorder (needs proper GP or specialist review).
Anxiety with depression (needs a full mental health assessment).
Anxiety after trauma (needs trauma-focused therapy).
Anxiety in anyone under 18 (needs age-appropriate input).
Anxiety in pregnancy or breastfeeding (Kalms Day is not for these).
How do Kalms Day tablets work?
Kalms Day is a traditional herbal medicine. So the mechanisms of the herbs are based on long-standing use and early research, not on the modern trial evidence used for licensed medicines. In particular, five main pathways have been proposed for the plant extracts in Kalms Day.
Valerian and GABA activity
Valerian root contains compounds (valerenic acid, valepotriates) that appear to act on the brain's GABA system. So GABA is the main "calming" chemical messenger in the brain. Furthermore, valerian compounds may bind to GABA-A receptors or slow the breakdown of GABA in the brain. As a result, valerian may support a gentle calming effect through the same pathway that some prescription anxiety medicines use, but with a much milder action.
Hops and adenosine signalling
Hop strobile contains compounds (humulones, lupulones) with mild sedative properties. In particular, some research suggests hops may act on adenosine receptors, which are involved in daily sleep-wake balance. So hops in Kalms Day sit alongside valerian to add a gentle settling effect.
Why two herbs work better than one
Valerian and hops have been used together in European herbal medicine for a long time. So the tradition reflects a real-world observation that the pair worked better together than either alone. In particular, small studies of valerian-plus-hops in short-lived sleep problems have supported this pairing. Furthermore, in Kalms Day the doses are tuned for daytime use, so the effect stays gentle.
Why the effect is gentle by design
Kalms Day is a daytime herbal product. So the doses are set to give a gentle, take-the-edge-off effect, not deep sedation. In particular, this is why Kalms Day and Kalms Night are separate products. Furthermore, if you need something stronger (either for daytime anxiety or nighttime sleep), a herbal daytime tablet is not the right level of support.
Why the effect takes time to build
Kalms Day is not a fast-acting sedative. So the effect builds over 2 to 4 weeks of regular daily use, rather than showing up within hours of the first dose. In particular, this is why the PIL suggests a 2 to 4 week trial period. Furthermore, if you have not noticed any change by 4 weeks, another approach is likely needed.
Where the traditional-use evidence sits
The evidence base for valerian in mild anxiety and short-lived sleep problems is limited but growing. So a Cochrane review of valerian for sleep found a modest effect on subjective sleep quality, though the trials were of variable quality. In particular, evidence for the valerian-hops blend as a whole is largely based on traditional use, not modern trials.
How to take Kalms Day Tablets
The basic pattern
Adults 18 and over: 2 tablets three times a day with water, after meals.
Spread the doses through the day (breakfast, lunch, evening meal).
Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours.
Take for 2 to 4 weeks. Speak to a doctor if symptoms have not improved after 4 weeks.
Why taking with meals matters
The PIL recommends taking Kalms Day after meals. So this reduces any mild stomach upset. In particular, taking herbal sedatives on an empty stomach can leave some people feeling a little queasy or lightheaded.
Driving and machinery
Kalms Day may cause drowsiness or dizziness in some people. So take care if driving or using machinery, especially in the first few days. In particular, do not drive if affected. Furthermore, do not drink alcohol while taking Kalms Day, as the combined sedative effect can be stronger than expected.
Storage
Store below 25°C.
Keep in the original bottle or blister pack, tightly closed.
Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Do not use after the expiry date on the pack.
Treatment dosage Kalms Day Tablets
The standard adult dose
Adults 18 and over (including the elderly): take 2 tablets three times a day with water, after meals. So the total daily dose is 6 tablets. In particular, spread the doses evenly through the day (with breakfast, lunch, and evening meal).
How long each pack lasts
At 6 tablets a day, an 84-tablet blister pack lasts 14 days. Furthermore, a 168-tablet bottle lasts 28 days, and a 200-tablet bottle lasts around 33 days. So the 168 or 200 sizes suit the full 2 to 4 week review period the PIL suggests.
If a dose is missed
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. So never take a double dose to catch up. Furthermore, do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours.
When to stop and see your GP
Stop Kalms Day and see your GP if:
Symptoms have not improved after 4 weeks of daily use.
Symptoms have got worse.
New symptoms have started (chest pain, palpitations, or panic attacks).
You start feeling low, hopeless, or think about self-harm.
Warnings and precautions for Kalms Day tablets
Review at 4 weeks
If symptoms have not improved after 4 weeks of daily Kalms Day use, speak to your doctor. So ongoing anxiety often needs talking therapy or a proper prescription. In particular, do not keep taking Kalms Day past 4 weeks without a proper review.
Not for anyone under 18
Kalms Day is only for adults aged 18 and over. So a child or teenager needing help with anxiety needs a GP or age-appropriate assessment.
Not in pregnancy or breastfeeding
Kalms Day should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. So the safety data for valerian and hops during pregnancy is limited.
Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol while taking Kalms Day. In particular, alcohol adds to the sedative effect of valerian and hops. So the combined effect can be stronger and less predictable than either alone.
Sedative medicines and other anxiety medicines
Do not take Kalms Day alongside sleeping tablets, other sedatives, strong painkillers with codeine or morphine, or benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam, zopiclone). Furthermore, do not take Kalms Day alongside other medicines prescribed for stress or anxiety. So the combined sedative effect can be stronger than intended. In particular, ask a pharmacist if you are on any of these.
Depression
Kalms Day is not for depression. So if you feel low, hopeless, or have lost interest in daily life, see your GP for a proper assessment.
Liver problems
Valerian is metabolised by the liver. So people with liver disease should ask their doctor before taking Kalms Day.
Allergies
Do not take Kalms Day if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. In particular, this includes hops (relevant for anyone with a known hops allergy from beer or brewing).
Side effects of Kalms Day tablets
Kalms Day is generally well tolerated at the recommended dose. So most people take it without any problem. However, some effects are worth knowing about:
Common effects
Mild drowsiness (usually in the first few days).
Mild dizziness.
Mild stomach upset.
Less common effects
Vivid dreams.
Dry mouth.
Skin rash or itching.
Rare but important
Severe allergic reaction (facial swelling, breathing difficulty, widespread rash).
Signs of liver dysfunction (yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, right-sided abdominal pain).
New or worsening low mood.
When to stop and get help
Stop Kalms Day and get medical help if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction, signs of liver problems, or new low mood. So for life-threatening symptoms, call 999.
Yellow Card scheme: report any suspected side effects via https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or the Yellow Card app. Reporting helps make medicines safer for everyone.
Interactions with other medicines
Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol while taking Kalms Day. So the combined sedative effect can be stronger than expected. In particular, this includes wine, beer, and spirits.
Prescription sedatives
Do not take Kalms Day alongside benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam), Z-drugs (zopiclone, zolpidem), sleeping tablets, or strong painkillers with opioids. So the combined sedative effect can be too strong.
Other stress or anxiety medicines
The PIL is explicit: do not take Kalms Day alongside other medicines prescribed for stress or anxiety. So ask a pharmacist or GP if you are on anything for anxiety, depression, or sleep.
Antidepressants
Some antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, mirtazapine, tricyclics) can add to the sedating effect of valerian. So ask a pharmacist or GP before combining Kalms Day with your antidepressant.
Antihistamines
Older sedating antihistamines (diphenhydramine, chlorphenamine, promethazine) can add to Kalms Day's effect. So combining them may cause more drowsiness than either alone.
Anaesthesia
Tell your anaesthetist if you take Kalms Day before any planned surgery or dental procedure with anaesthetic. So the anaesthetist may want you to stop Kalms Day a few days before.
Frequently asked questions about Kalms Day tablets
What's in Kalms Day?
Each tablet contains 26mg of dry extract of valerian root, plus hops extract. So the two active herbs are valerian and hops.
What's the difference between Kalms Day and Kalms Night?
Kalms Day is for daytime symptoms of stress and mild anxiety. In contrast, Kalms Night is for temporary sleep disturbance. So the two products use different herb balances tuned for different times of day.
How quickly does Kalms Day work?
Effects are not immediate. So plan on 2 to 4 weeks of daily use before deciding whether Kalms Day helps. In particular, a fast lift within hours is not what this product is designed for.
Which pack size should I choose?
It depends on how long you plan to trial Kalms Day. So an 84-tablet blister pack (2 weeks at 6 tablets a day) suits a short trial. Furthermore, a 168-tablet bottle (28 days) covers the full 2 to 4 week review period the PIL suggests.
Can I take Kalms Day for a long time?
If symptoms have not improved after 4 weeks, speak to your doctor. So do not keep taking Kalms Day past the 4-week point without a proper review. In particular, ongoing anxiety often needs talking therapy or a proper prescription.
Can I drive after taking Kalms Day?
For most people, yes. However, Kalms Day may cause drowsiness or dizziness in some. So take care if driving, especially in the first few days. In particular, do not drive if affected.
Can I take Kalms Day with alcohol?
No. Alcohol adds to the sedative effect of valerian and hops. So the combined effect can be stronger than expected.
Is Kalms Day habit-forming?
Kalms Day is not thought to cause dependence in the way that prescription sedatives such as diazepam can. However, if you feel you need Kalms Day for weeks at a time to cope, see your GP.
Can I take Kalms Day with my antidepressant?
Not without asking a pharmacist or GP first. So valerian can add to the sedating effect of some antidepressants. In particular, this matters for mirtazapine, tricyclics, and SSRIs at higher doses.
Can I take Kalms Day during pregnancy?
No. Kalms Day is not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. So if anxiety is a problem during pregnancy, see your GP or midwife.
Can teenagers take Kalms Day?
No. Kalms Day is for adults aged 18 and over only. So a teenager with anxiety needs a GP or age-appropriate assessment.
Can children take Kalms Day?
No. Kalms Day is only for adults 18 and over. So a child with anxiety needs a GP or paediatric assessment.
Does Kalms Day contain gluten?
Check the current pack. So the excipient list can change between production batches. In particular, if you have coeliac disease, read the label first.
Is Kalms Day vegan?
Check the current pack. So the sugar-coating and colouring ingredients can vary. In particular, ask our team if this matters to you.
Can I take Kalms Day before a job interview or public speaking?
Kalms Day is designed for regular daily use over weeks, not as a one-off calming dose ahead of an event. So it is not a fast-acting sedative. In particular, if you've been on Kalms Day for a couple of weeks already, the general calming effect may help. However, do not exceed the daily dose.
What if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. So do not double up.
Can I take Kalms Day with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
Yes. Paracetamol, ibuprofen, and other non-opioid painkillers do not interact with Kalms Day. So these are the safe pain-relief options while on Kalms Day.
What if I still feel anxious after 4 weeks?
See your GP. So ongoing anxiety usually needs talking therapy (CBT), a prescribed medicine, or both. In particular, do not just keep taking Kalms Day past the 4-week mark without a review.
Does Kalms Day help with panic attacks?
No. Kalms Day is for mild everyday anxiety, not panic disorder. So if you have panic attacks, see your GP for proper assessment.
Where can I get advice if I'm unsure?
Ask our team on the website, or drop in to our free fortnightly Sunday clinic at Insomnia Coffee Shop, Burton Road, Derby, from 10am to 12 noon.
When to move beyond a herbal tablet
Anxiety that lasts more than 4 weeks, gets worse, or stops you doing daily activities needs more than a herbal tablet. So our team can help you sort the next steps: NHS talking therapy referral (IAPT), a GP appointment for a proper assessment, or a self-referral to a private CBT therapist. In particular, we can also flag when a physical cause (thyroid, iron, sleep apnoea) may be behind the anxious feelings.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This information is for education only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always follow your prescriber's instructions.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (accessed 2026). Generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder in adults: management. NICE guideline CG113. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg113
