VALERIAN

Mar 30, 2023
4 min read

Updated: Apr 8

Valerian

Botanical Name

Valeriana officinalis

Common Name

Valerian, phu, all-heal, amantilla, setwall, capon’s tail

Family

Caprifoliaceae

Parts Used

Rhizome, roots

Native To

Europe, parts of Asia

Harvesting Guidelines

For valerian (Valeriana officinalis), it is best to remove flowering tops as they grow to help the plant direct its energy into root development. In the fall, harvest the aerial parts and dig up the rootstock, which contains the active compounds responsible for valerian's medicinal properties.

In indigenous herbal traditions, valerian is widely valued for its calming properties. In Europe, it was often used as a "sleeping herb", where ancient peoples believed it could induce peaceful dreams and relieve anxiety. Native European cultures, including the Celtic peoples, used valerian in rituals to invoke peaceful slumber and ward off evil spirits. Roman and Greek societies also recognized its powers, especially in aiding sleep, and were known to use it in a blend with other herbs for treating a variety of nervous system issues.

In European folklore, valerian has a particularly magical reputation. The plant is often associated with dreams and spiritual protection, making it a common ingredient in protective charms and potions used for nightmares. In some medieval traditions, valerian was believed to be a powerful antidote to evil spirits and witchcraft, which led it to be used in rituals for personal protection. The roots were thought to have mystical properties and were sometimes buried under pillows to promote good dreams or kept near the bed to prevent night terrors.

In the Middle Ages, valerian’s strong, distinctive scent was said to drive away evil spirits and protect the home from hexes or curses. Some even believed that the plant’s roots contained a “soul,” leading it to be referred to as the "devil’s plant" in some areas, especially in regions where magic and witchcraft were heavily practiced.

In Eastern European folklore, the plant was said to aid those seeking love. It was thought that if a person carried a valerian root while walking through a forest at night, they would be able to attract love. This belief ties into the plant’s perceived association with mystical and romantic energies, likely because of its sedative and relaxing effects, which in turn made people more open to connections with others.

Today, valerian is primarily used for its calming effects, often prescribed for people suffering from anxiety, insomnia, and nervousness. Its ability to relax the body and mind is well-documented in both traditional herbalism and scientific research. However, the plant’s deeper spiritual and magical associations have continued in modern herbalism, where valerian is often used in preparations aimed at emotional balancing or psychic protection.

While valerian’s magical and folklore associations remain strong, modern scientific studies have provided robust evidence for its medicinal uses:

Anti-anxiety and Sedative Effects:Studies have shown that valerian root contains valepotriates and valeric acid, compounds that contribute to its calming effects on the nervous system. Double-blind studies have demonstrated valerian's ability to significantly reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. For example, a 2010 study found that valerian was effective at improving sleep quality in people suffering from insomnia and anxiety disorders, often serving as an alternative to pharmaceutical sedatives (Cuellar & Ratcliffe, 2009).
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS):Research also supports valerian’s use in treating restless legs syndrome (RLS). A 2009 study concluded that valerian improved daytime sleepiness and symptom severity in individuals suffering from RLS (Cuellar & Ratcliffe, 2009). This is particularly important because RLS is a nervous system disorder, and valerian’s muscle-relaxing properties make it an effective treatment.
Anticonvulsant Activity:Valerian may have been one of the first anticonvulsants used for epilepsy, as suggested in 16th-century records. Modern studies have found that valerian’s active compounds may help reduce seizures and muscle spasms by stabilizing the nervous system. A study published in 2004 explored valerian’s ability to reduce seizures, confirming its anticonvulsant properties (Eadie, 2004).

Adult Dose

Infusion: 4-8 fl oz (made with 1 ounce dried root in 1 quart water) 30 minutes before bed

Tincture: 10 drops – 3 mL fresh root (1:2, 95%) or dried root (1:5, 60%) up to 4x/day

Capsule: 500-1000 mg up to 4x/day

Safety:

Valerian, a natural supplement commonly used for its calming effects, may not be suitable for everyone. While it is generally safe, some individuals may experience increased anxiety or stimulation after taking it. It is important to avoid driving or operating machinery while using valerian and to avoid consuming alcohol or other sedatives. Additionally, if you are taking medications that are metabolized in the liver, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before using valerian.

Actions

Analgesic,Antidepressant,Antispasmodic,Anxiolytic,Nervine,Neuroprotective,Relaxant,Sedative,Soporific

Energy

Warming

References:

Murray, Michael T. (1995). The Healing Power of Herbs. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing.
Eadie, M.J. (2004). "Could Valerian Have Been the First Anticonvulsant?" Epilepsia, 45(11):1338-43.
Cuellar, N.G., Ratcliffe, S.J. (2009). "Does Valerian Improve Sleepiness and Symptom Severity in People with Restless Legs Syndrome [Abstract]?" Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 15(2), 22–28.
Foster, S. (2006). Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine. Washington, DC: National Geographic Society.
Simpson, W., & Williamson, E. M. (2012). The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone.

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