Valerian

VALERIAN ROOT - Valeriana - Valeriana officinalis - Caprifoliaceae Family Common names: Garden valerian, garden heilotrope, all-heal HISTORY OF USE Valerian is native to Europe and grows throughout the world. It has a centuries old use and retains it popularity for use as a mild and non-addictive sedative. Valerian is named from the Latin word valere, “to be well.” The ancient Greeks and Romans used valerian medicinally. CULINARY USE Valerian extracts are sometimes used to flavor some liquors, beers, tobacco, and other pungent products. MEDICINAL USE Nervous System: Valerian is well known as a go to herb for sleeplessness, restlessness, nervous tension, although in some people it has the opposite effect. Helps promote concentration. Digestive System: Its antispasmodic action will help with stomach or intestinal cramps. Respiratory system:  Eases spasmodic coughs, colds, asthma Reproductive system: Its antispasmodic properties and relaxing effects help with menstrual cramps. Cardiovascular system: It has a toning effect on the heart. FLAVOR & ENERGETICS Acrid, some say it is fetid. It is advisable to smell valerian first to see whether the aroma is tolerable or not. CONSTITUENTS Volatile oils including valerianic acid, isovalerianic acid; volatile alkaloids. HERBAL ACTIONS Antispasmodic, nervine, stimulant, carminative, antispasmodic CAUTIONS For a small percentage of people, valerian has the opposite effect and causes excitability and overstimulation, so they should discontinue use. Some people feel lethargic after using valerian; in that case, the dosage is too high. TEA BLENDS A pinch of valerian can be used in blends with lemon balm or chamomile for tension, sleeplessness, and headaches, as it is a strong-smelling but effective herb. DISCLAIMER This information is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, heal, mitigate, or remedy disease. It is for educational purposes only and should not be implemented without the express consent of your healthcare practitioner.