Valerian

Heath Benefits: Sleep aid, Calming effects, Natural sedative.

Valerian is a hardy perennial flowering plant, with heads of sweetly scented pink or white flowers which bloom in the summer months. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, Valerian has been introduced into North America. It is consumed as food by the larvae of some Lepidoptera (butterfly and moth) species.

Valerian, also known as Garden Valerian, Jacob's Ladder, Phu, and all-heal, is an herb that is well known for its ability to induce sleep. Traditional Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine recommends valerian for treatment of insomnia. The most important part of the Valerian plant is its roots.

Valerian has been used as a medicinal herb since at least the time of ancient Greece and Rome. Hippocrates described its properties, and Galen later prescribed it as a remedy for insomnia. In medieval Sweden, it was sometimes placed in the wedding clothes of the groom to ward off the "envy" of the elves. Valerian flower extracts were used as a perfume in the sixteenth century.

Valerian is without doubt the most widely recognized herbal sedative. It is used by herbalists for insomnia, nervous anxiety and to help the body relax in the presence of pain. It is calming without exerting too sedative an effect. Over 120 chemical components are found in Valerian and although a very complex herb, it has not been found to have any negative side effects with moderate use.

Many studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Valerian as a sleep aid, especially when combined with St. John's Wort or Lemon Balm. Valerian relaxes smooth muscles making it an idea remedy for cramps.

For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.