Valerian
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Western

Valerian

Valerian Root

Valeriana officinalis

wholedried

Botanical Source

Scientific NameValeriana officinalis
Family / GenusCaprifoliaceae | Valeriana

Chemical Compounds

AlkaloidsEssential Oils

System Profiles

Actions
SedativeAnxiolyticNervine
Organ Affinities
Nervous SystemBrain

History

Valerian has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient Greek and Roman times. Hippocrates described its properties, and Galen prescribed it for insomnia. It was widely used in medieval Europe as a sleep aid and calmative.

Traditional Usage

Valerian root is primarily used to promote relaxation and sleep. It helps reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and ease nervous tension. Often combined with other calming herbs like chamomile and lemon balm.