Valerian Root (Organic)

Valeriana officinalis

Format: Roots

Size: 1 oz package

Also Known as: Valeriana officinalis. Common Valerian, European Valerian, Valeriana, Amantilla, Bloody Butcher, Capon's Trailer, Cat's Valerian, Fragrant Valerian, Garden Heliotrope, Phu, Red Valerian, St. George's Herb, Sete wale, Set well, Vandal root and Allheal.

Farming Type: Organic

Origin: Poland

Contrary to popular myth, the modern drug Valium is not derived from valerian, and there is no relationship at all between them. Valerian root does, however, have a long history of use as a sedative in Western Europe, dating back to the time of Hippocrates, (ca. 460-377 B.C). Originally native to Europe and parts of Asia but now common throughout North America, in the U.S. valerian root is widely used in sleep aids and sedatives in various forms including teas, tablets, and capsules. Often, valerian is combined with other herbs traditionally known to promote sleep including hops, passionflower, lemon balm, chamomile, and lavender. The root must be dried at temperatures below 105 degrees F (40 degrees C) for its medicinally active compounds to form. Anyone who has experienced the unpleasant “dirty socks” odor of the roots would be surprised to learn that the pink or white flowers of this long-stemmed perennial are actually quite fragrant, and were used as a perfume in the 16th century. Ancient medical texts acknowledge the odor of the root by calling the plant phu. In teas, valerian tastes sweet and spicy if somewhat bitter.

Valerian is a calmative and tranquilizer. Its properties have been known at least since the time of Hippocrates, and it was prescribed by the ancient Greek physician Galen for the treatment of headaches, insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, menstrual problems, nervous stomach, and hysteria. Clinical trials have confirmed the use of valerian for treating insomnia, especially the insomnia that accompanies menopause. The advantage of valerian over tranquilizers such as Valium and Xanax is that it reduces sleep latency, the time required to fall asleep, without a period of bedtime drowsiness and without creating a "hangover" or grogginess the next morning. Valerian has greatest effect in treating chronic insomnia, rather than short-term sleeplessness. It also soothes the digestive system and may prevent cramping caused by irritable bowel syndrome.

Note: If you use valerian for several months and suddenly stop using it, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as headache, insomnia, racing heart, and general grouchiness, although rare. Reduce dosage of a period of about a week if you wish to discontinue using the herb suddenly.

In Magick, Valerian root is ruled by Venus and the element of water. It can be used in protective sachets, and used in pillows to promote sleep. It is an excellent calming herb when used at home to bring peace and tranquility to the family. It is also used widely in love spells of all kinds. Due to its foul smelling odor, it was also often used in protection magick and to scare off evil spirits. The powdered root can be used as graveyard dust.

Keywords: Love, sleep, purification and protection

For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.