What is Valerian Root?
Valerian root, from the Latin name Valeriana officinalis, is a flowering perennial plant with pink and white flowers exhibiting a sweet aroma. Some of its common names are English valerian, Vermont valerian, German valerian, great wild valerian, and vandal root. Valerian root has been used for its medicinal properties for many years. Valerian root has been widely used in preventing insomnia. Its quiet and soothing effects help a person sleep. Although a person can experience this effect immediately after using valerian root the first time, it is common that a person use it for a few weeks before experiencing the full effect of the herb. This herb has been used in alleviating anxiety and treating people that experience hysteria. It is known to promote menstruation in women when ingested as a hot tea and is often times used as a pain reliever. Valerian root has been used to treat migraines. Valerian has been helpful in comforting colicky babies, in lowering fevers and has been used in br
An ancient Greek physician called this herb phu (pronounced like “phew!”), and he wasn’t kidding. Many people compare the smell of dried valerian root to that of old socks. On the other hand, cats love this herb (it’s related to catnip) and so do rodents legend has it that the Pied Piper used it to lure rats away from the village of Hamelin. Why would people be drawn toward such a smelly substance? Because they’ve heard it may help them get a good night’s sleep. back to top What is it used for? Valerian root is an herb that has been used for centuries to promote restful sleep. It’s gentler than prescription sleep aids, and when taken in proper doses shouldn’t make you feel groggy in the morning. Unlike prescription sleep aids, valerian is supposedly not addictive, unless you take it every night for a long period of time. Even so, herbal experts recommend that people use valerian root only when they really need it and not on a regular basis. If you find that you often have difficulty fa
