Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is also known as Garden Heliotrope. It does not have the same pleasant scent as standard Heliotrope, but it presents itself very similarly. Beyond being a favorite medicine, Valerian extract is also used in “mossy”-scented perfumes and also to flavor tobacco products, beer, wine, and other beverages, especially those that emulate an apple flavor.
History of Valerian
For centuries, Valerian has been a favorite herb for a variety of ailments that require a calming effect. It is suspected that the species of Valerian known to Europe and Western cultures was actually brought originally from the East, and some conjecture is made that Valerian may be the “spikenard” perfumes referenced in the Christian Bible.
During the Middle Ages, Valerian was considered to be an “all-heal” herb and was prescribed as a treatment (if not cure) for epilepsy. It was also used during World War I to treat “shell shock”, a condition of memory loss and psychological stress. Some anthropologists believe that in the story “the Pied Piper of Hamelin”, the Piper carried sprigs of Valerian in his pockets in order to lead the rats to the river. While rats are drawn to the herb, cats are also profoundly affected, and Valerian is said to have a greater effect than Catnip.
Current Uses and Research
Valerian is primarily regarded as a sedative and nerve-calming agent. It tranquilizes, calms the mind, relieves insomnia, treats nervous or tension headaches, calms queasy stomachs, regulates mild arrhythmia and soothes hysteria. Valerian’s anti-spasmodic actions also have made it effective for croup and other convulsive conditions. Its relaxing effect is also said to be excellent for treating tension related to the menstrual cycle, including cramping, headaches and mood swings. Externally, it has also been used for bruises, splinters, and as an eye-wash.
Despite the efforts of researchers, there is a great deal of debate still about what compounds or combination of compounds create particular effects from Valerian. Some researchers suggest that the compounds that actively produce the calming effects are created through preparations. There is some suggestion that the prescription drug Valium is derived from Valerian, but despite similarities in name, Valerian has no relation chemically to Valium. Valerian does not interact with or amplify the effects of alcohol like Valium and other synthetic sedatives.
Contraindications, Warnings, and Disclaimers
Only professional qualified practitioners should administer Valerian for anything other than mild nervousness or insomnia in otherwise healthy adults. Do not take Valerian if you are currently also taking antidepressants or prescription sedatives. People react in different ways and to different degrees with Valerian, so do not operate machinery or drive until you know how Valerian affects you. High doses of Valerian can cause headaches, spasmodic movements, and hallucinations. Valerian is not physically addictive, but a pre-existing propensity towards addictive behavior may create a habit.
References
- Herbs: Their Culture and Uses, Clarkson, R., 1949; p. 193-194
- Taylor’s 50 Best Herbs and Edible Flowers, 1999; p. 104-105
- The Rodale Herb Book, 1974; p. 611-613
- Earl Mindell’s Herb Bible, 1992; p. 164-165
- Herbs for Healthy Living, 2007; p. 118, 285, 311
- Herb Society of America’s New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses, 2001; p. 399-400
- The Herb Identifier, Clevely, A., 1999; p. 120
- NNCAM
- MedLine Plus
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