valerian

Botanical Name: Valeriana officinalis

Part Used: Root

Energetics: Cooling

Taste: Bitter

Botany: Valerian is a perennial herb that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family, which also includes honeysuckle and elderberry. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and has pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer. The root is the part of the plant that is used for medicinal purposes and has a distinct, earthy aroma.

History: Valerian has a long history of use as a medicinal herb, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. It was used as a remedy for various ailments, including insomnia, anxiety, and headaches. In medieval times, it was used as a treatment for the plague. Valerian was also commonly used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages.

According to Greek legend, the goddess Aphrodite gifted valerian root to the Greek physician Galen as a treatment for insomnia. In Norse mythology, valerian was used as an ingredient in the love potion brewed by the goddess Freya to make her suitors fall in love with her. Similarly, in medieval Europe, valerian was used as a love charm, believed to attract members of the opposite sex.

Valerian's sedative properties have also led to its association with the supernatural. In medieval times, it was believed that placing valerian under one's pillow could protect them from evil spirits and nightmares. The plant's potent scent was also thought to ward off witches and other malevolent entities.

In addition to its use as a sedative and love charm, valerian was also believed to have other medicinal properties. It was used to treat a variety of ailments, including nervous disorders, headaches, and digestive issues. The ancient Roman physician Dioscorides recommended it as a treatment for anxiety and nervousness.

Actions: Sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic, antispasmodic, nervine, carminative

Insomnia: Valerian is well-known for its ability to promote relaxation and relieve insomnia. Studies have shown that valerian can improve sleep quality and decrease the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. It is a safe and effective alternative to prescription sleep medications.

Anxiety: Valerian has also been shown to have anxiolytic effects, meaning it can help relieve anxiety and promote a sense of calmness. It works by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate anxiety.

Muscle Relaxant: Valerian has antispasmodic properties and can help relieve muscle tension and cramps. It is often used to treat conditions such as restless leg syndrome and menstrual cramps.

Nervous System: Valerian is a nervine herb, meaning it can help support the nervous system. It has been shown to improve cognitive function and relieve symptoms of depression.

Digestion: Valerian has carminative properties and can help relieve digestive issues such as bloating and gas.

Constitutional herbalism: Valerian is often considered a plant ally for those with a cold and dry constitution, as it has warming and moistening properties. People with this constitution tend to have poor circulation, be prone to anxiety, and have trouble sleeping. Valerian's warming and relaxing properties can help calm and ground these individuals, promoting better sleep and reducing feelings of anxiety. Additionally, valerian is also known for its affinity for the nervous system, making it a useful herb for those who experience nervous system-related symptoms such as tension headaches or muscle spasms. Its ability to gently stimulate the digestive system also makes it useful for people with poor digestion, who often have a cold and dry constitution. Overall, valerian can be a valuable plant ally for individuals with a cold and dry constitution who experience symptoms related to the nervous system, digestion, and sleep.

Contraindications: Valerian is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, it can cause drowsiness and should not be taken before driving or operating heavy machinery. It should also be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Growing: Valerian prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It can be grown from seed or by root division. The plant can be harvested in the fall, after the flowers have died back, and the root can be used fresh or dried for later use.

Processing: To prepare valerian root for use, it can be chopped or grated and made into a tea or tincture. It can also be encapsulated for easier consumption. Valerian has a strong, earthy smell and taste, which some people find unpleasant. It is often combined with other herbs, such as chamomile or lemon balm, to improve the taste.