About Valerian

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has been used for centuries as a sleep aid and soothing tonic. Valerian is a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. Preparations made from valerian use the root and the rhizomes for their medicinal properties.

Historical Use

• For hundreds of years in Europe, valerian has been used to diminish anxiety, sooth insomnia and ease nervous restlessness.

Anxiety

• Valerian may increase the levels of the chemical gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain. This process helps to regulate nerve cells in the brain, easing anxiety.

Insomnia

• Valerian is used as a sleep aid. Taking valerian for several weeks may improve ease of falling asleep and quality of sleep.

Other Uses

• Valerian root is also used to soothe headaches and ease symptoms of mild depression. Symptoms of irregular heart beat and trembling may also benefit from valerian.

Parts Used

• As a medical preparation, the root of the plant is pressed to release the medicinal juices. The liquid is taken fresh in juice or freeze-dried and turned into a powder.