Valerian Root - Valeriana Officinalis

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is an herb native to Europe and parts of Asia. Valerian root has a long history of use as a sedative.


Valerian can grow to be just over 6 feet tall and has a strong odour. It seems to act like a sedative in the brain and nervous system. Valerian has been used as a traditional medicine dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times.

People commonly use valerian for sleep disorders, especially insomnia. Valerian is also used for anxiety, stress, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.

For tea, soak 2 to 3 grams of dried herbal valerian root in 1 cup of hot water (not boiling) for 10 to 15 minutes, if possible cover to stop the essential oils from evaporating.

Valerian root seems to work best after taking it regularly for two or more weeks. Don’t take valerian root for more than a month without talking to your doctor.