Valerian’s botanical name is Valeriana officinalis and it is a member of the Valerianaceae family. It is a perennial herb that grows up to five ft. in height, and according to Steven Foster and James Duke in their book “A Field Guide to Medicinal Plats and Herbs,” valerian leaves are strongly divided with tiny white to pale pink flowers that grow in tight clusters. They note that research has confirmed valerian tinctures and teas as anti-depressant and sedative. Always consult your doctor before taking herbal remedies, if you are taking medications.
Valerian Tea
Valerian is considered one of the most useful herbs to use as a sedative and relaxing nervine, says the book “The New Holistic Herbal” by herbalist David Hoffmann. Orthodox western medicine recognizes this property in valerian and the herb is included in a number of pharmacopoeias. It can help reduce tension in the nerves and muscles as well as relieve anxiety and hysterical states, adds Hoffmann. Valerian is also useful in treating any type of pain that is related to tension in the body.
Make valerian tea by adding two tsp. of valerian root to a cup of hot water and let it steep for five to 10 minutes. Drink as needed. Valerian is considered a safe herb but according to herbalist Richo Cech in his book “Making Plant Medicine,” valerian overdose can lead to drowsiness the next morning.
Valerian Tincture
Herbalist James Green writes in his book “The Herbal Medicine-Maker’s Handbook” that valerian is useful when treating sleep disorders such as insomnia, and Simon Mills in his book “The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism,” considers its usage to be non-addictive. Valerian tea can be used to help induce sleep; however, herbalist Rosemary Gladstar notes that some individuals may find the smell of valerian to be offensive in her book “Family Herbal a Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health and Vitality.” If this is the case, a few drops of tincture may be a better option.
Add 1 tsp. of valerian tincture to a glass of warm mill and drink 30 minutes before bedtime, says Gladstar. You can flavor your milk with cinnamon an honey, and if you are allergic to lactose, take it with either rice, almond or oat milk along with a calcium tablet.
Valerian Essential Oil
According to acupuncturist David Crowe in his book “The Pharmacy of Flowers,” studies show that certain valerian cultivars have antimicrobial properties strong enough to fight bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause pneumonia and other serious illnesses.
Add up to 10 drops of valerian essential oil to a vaporizer and use in a room you intend to disinfect in order to prevent as well as treat disease.
