Valerian

A remedy for insomnia, anxiety and restlessness Disclaimer: This information is in no way intended to be a substitute for modern medical care. Do not self-treat any medical complaint without the guidance of a licensed health care provider.
All information provided in this article is the result of research using (but not limited to) the following books and guides: Herbs for Health and Healing, Rodale; Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham; Magical Herbalism, Scott Cunningham; The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers; Earthway, Mary Summer Rain; and Teach Yourself Herbs, Susie White. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is one of the best-known herbs for promoting a good night's sleep and easing nervous tension. Its sedative effects were first recognized in the seventeenth century, and since then it has enjoyed a long history of safe and effective use. Native to Europe and North Asia, valerian takes its name from the Latin, Valeriana, meaning "well-being." In popular lore, it is known as cat's weed or moonroot. While many of us find dried valerian's odor to be unpleasant, rats adore the scent: The Pied Piper was said to carry it with him to lure them away, his music being only a decoy. A potent herb, valerian was used in Roman times as a sedative, in the Middle Ages as a cure for epilepsy and during both the World Wars to alleviate shell shock.
The unpleasant smell of this plant's strong roots belies its numerous healing effects. Yet, the distinctive odor did not deter the Romans and Greeks from drinking the tea to treat a wide range of afflictions - most notably epilepsy and many stress-related ailments.
Today, valerian grows wild in damp conditions and is cultivated in Europe for its safe, non-addictive, calming properties. It's also effective for easing asthma, menstrual pain and indigestion. Fragrant and easy to grow, valerian is an important herb in gardens. Plant Facts: Valerian belongs to the umbelliferous family of plants. Growing up to 5 feet tall, this graceful perennial emits a spicy aroma and tastes slightly bitter. Remedies are often made from its cylindrical rootstocks, which spread via underground runners. Origin: Valerian is native to Europe and the parts of Asia that have a moderate climate. It prefers moist soil - swampy meadows in particular - but it also grows on the plains and in the mountains, even at altitudes above 6,000 feet. Parts Used: The rootstock (rhizome) of the healing plant is used in natural medicine; it is used fresh or dried, which is done at temperatures above 104° F.

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