Valerian

Valerian
valeriana officinalis
polemonium caeruleum
Valerianaceae Family

AKA
All-heal
Capon's tail
cat's valerian
English Valerian
fragrant valerian
garden heliotrope
German Valerian
great wild valerian
heliotrope
Phu
Saint George's Herb
Setwell

Folklore and Traditional Use

Countless legends surround valerian,
which were called "phu"
for its foul odor in ancient times.
Despite its odor, valerian was used
as a potent perfume during the Middle Ages.

Chaucer's "Millers Tale" describes a character
as "sweet smelling as the root"
of valerian and other herbs.

Cats and other small animals are attracted to it.
According to early German folklore, the Pied Piper
had it squirreled away in his pocket as he lured
the rats and eventually the children from Hamelin.
Humans have been attacted to it for centuries.

Native Americans used its roots
for food and as a flavoring in tobacco.

In Germany it is the active ingredient in more than
100 over-the-counter tranquilizers and sleep-aids.

Recently scientists have learned the aqueous extract
of valerian contains substantial quantities
of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
a neurotransmitter that is thought
to inhibit brain's arousal system.


Source(s)

Melissa Valerian Herbal Bath 2.1 oz: K The combination of the essential oils of the Indian Melissa and the medicinal herb Valerian Root create a deep, satisfying rest. A warm bath before bedtime helps you fall asleep. The Melissa and Valerian Herbal Bath is most effective in calming nerves and to ease symptoms of restlessness.

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