Definition:

Valerian is a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia, with white or pink blossoms. It’s most famous for its calming and sedative effects, particularly its use as a natural remedy for insomnia and anxiety.

Botanical Name: Valeriana officinalis

Common Name: Valerian

Family: Caprifoliaceae

Part Used: Root

Energetics:

• Taste: Bitter, pungent
• Temperature: Warming, moistening

Actions:

• Sedative
• Antispasmodic
• Nervine (calms the nervous system)
• Muscle relaxant
• Mild analgesic (pain-relieving)

Body Systems:

• Nervous System: Valerian is primarily used to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. It is commonly used for treating anxiety, nervous tension, and insomnia due to its sedative properties.
• Musculoskeletal System: Valerian acts as a muscle relaxant, making it useful for relieving muscle tension, spasms, and cramps. It can be especially helpful for tension headaches and menstrual cramps.
• Digestive System: Valerian’s antispasmodic effects also extend to the digestive tract, where it helps to relieve indigestion and cramping caused by stress or anxiety.

Primary Constituents:

• Valerenic acid: Responsible for the sedative and muscle-relaxing effects
• Valepotriates: Contribute to the sedative and anxiolytic properties
• Flavonoids: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
• Alkaloids: Provide calming and anti-anxiety effects

Safety Precautions:

• Pregnancy & Lactation: Valerian is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to its strong sedative effects.
• Drowsiness: Valerian can cause drowsiness, so caution should be used when operating heavy machinery or driving.

Traditional & Modern Uses:

• Sleep Aid: Valerian is one of the most well-known herbs for promoting sleep. It is commonly used to treat insomnia, especially when related to stress or an overactive mind.
• Anxiety & Stress Relief: Valerian is used to reduce anxiety, nervous tension, and chronic stress. Its calming effects on the nervous system make it a popular remedy for anxiety-related conditions.
• Muscle Relaxation: Valerian helps to relax tight or cramping muscles, making it useful for conditions like restless leg syndrome, tension headaches, and menstrual cramps.
• Digestive Health: Valerian’s antispasmodic action helps soothe the digestive tract, relieving cramps, indigestion, and other digestive discomforts caused by stress or anxiety.

Preparations & Dosage:

• Infusion (Tea): 1-2 tsp of dried valerian root per cup of hot water, steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink 1 cup 30 minutes before bed for sleep, or as needed for anxiety relief.
• Tincture: 2-4 ml, up to three times daily, or 1-2 ml before bed for insomnia.
• Capsules: 300-500 mg of dried valerian root, taken 30 minutes before bed for sleep support or as needed for anxiety.
• Essential Oil (Aromatherapy): Valerian essential oil can be used in a diffuser or added to bath water to promote relaxation and reduce stress.