Valerian

Valeriana officinalis

Valerianaceae - Valerian Family

Common names: All Heal, Setwall, Vandal Root, Phu, Moon Root

Valerian, with its smelly root, is a very well-known, powerful nervine which has been noted from ancient days to the present in writings of many physicians and herbalists including Hippocrates, Dioscorides, Galen, Gerard, Culpeper, Samuel Thompson and John Christopher.

Historical Uses: Throughout the ages and in many countries around the world, Valerian has been used for a number of different conditions.

Present Day Uses: To relieve insomnia, stress and anxiety (nerves), headache, muscle spasms, stomach cramps, fatigue, and pain.

Benefits: A natural relaxant to aid those living the modern fast-paced lifestyle, Valerian takes effect quickly and improves the quality of sleep.

Cautions: Although Valerian is considered safe for general use and while it is calming to the majority of people, a few will find it extremely stimulating and should not take it. Some have headaches or nightmares. This is because a small number of people do not make the digestive conversion necessary for Valerian to be effectively used as a sedative. Instead, it acts as a stimulant causing increased agitation. It might be a good idea to start with a low dose and gradually work up to a state of relaxation, especially since each person may have different dosage requirements. Dr. John Christopher warns, "Valerian is potent, so be careful to give it in the prescribed dosages only."

General Description: An herbaceous perennial with bright, green, fern-like leaves that grows up to five feet tall, it has an erect, hollow stem, topped with small white to pink flowers which bloom between June and September. The dried root of Valerian is known for its odor but its description is a matter of opinion. It has been described as peculiar, strange, disagreeable, foul, stinky, and obnoxious. On the other hand, some people actually like the smell, describing it as earthy. During the Middle Ages it was popular as a perfume.

Range: Although there are approximately 200 species of Valerian growing in temperate areas of the world, Valerian officinales is the one mainly used for medicine and it is native to Europe and Asia.

Habitat: Valerian adapts to a wide range of soils, but prefers them moist. It is often found in marshy areas and along ditches and rivers. It will grow in partial shade to full sun.

According to Ortho, Valerian is "beneficial in the garden and will improve the growth of vegetables, attract earthworms and increase the mineral content in the compost pile." Should one feel inclined to dig up a fresh root to make a tea, as was done in the olden days, one precaution should be remembered. The root should never be boiled because the essential oil would evaporate and reduce the medicinal properties.