Herbs, Plants, Trees and Roots | July, 2011

You entered English Valerian, the more common name is...

A root decoction or tincture is said to have a calming and sleep inducing affect. Valerian is used to treat nervous conditions, insomnia, anxiety and badly contracted muscles. Dried roots have a catnip like effect on felines. The roots can be used to make a soothing bath. For acne or skin rashes use the roots to make a poultice.

Valerian

SCIENTIFIC NAME:
(Valeriana officinalis)


Native to Europe and Asia, Valerian has been introduced to North America and can be found growing in damp areas like the edges of creeks, rivers and lakes as well as some roadside drainage ditches. This perennial grows to a height of 5 feet. Its fernlike leaves are serrated and dark-green. Atop the tall stems clusters of small, tubular, pinkish-white, sweetly scented flowers bloom in early summer.



Common Names:

All-heal, American English Valerian, Blessed Herb, Capon’s Tail, English Valerian, Garden Heliotrope, German Valerian, Great Wild Valerian, Heal-all, Heliotrope, Setwall, Vandal Root, Vermont Valerian, Wild Valerian


Valerian

Uses:

A root decoction or tincture is said to have a calming and sleep inducing affect. Valerian is used to treat nervous conditions, insomnia, anxiety and badly contracted muscles. Dried roots have a catnip like effect on felines. The roots can be used to make a soothing bath. For acne or skin rashes use the roots to make a poultice.



Applications:

Decoction:
Use root to make decoction. Valerian should be simmered in a covered pot for 2 to 4 hours. Do not boil this root. Strain, add honey and drink 1 cup per day or before bed.

Tincture:
Make decoction from root and strain. When cooled add 2 tbsp. of decoction to 1 shot of drinking alcohol and drink. This should be done 3 times a day.

Capsule:
: Follow dosage on bottle.


Warnings:

Do not exceed dosages or use for more than 3 weeks. Do not use Valerian with any sleep inducing medications. Large doses and or prolonged use of this herb may produce symptoms of poisoning, paralysis, palpitations, headaches or a weakening of the heart. Always check with a licensed physician before using this or any natural remedy. Prolonged use may also cause one to become addicted.

With any herb, there is the risk of an allergic reaction. Small children and pregnant women should use additional caution when considering the use of herbal remedies.