Valerian

The peacekeeper of the nervous system, Valeriana’s superpower lies in its ability to calm the mind, soothe tension, and promote deep, restorative sleep. Whether through the stronger action of Valeriana officinalis or the gentler effects of Valeriana sitchensis, this herb helps the body and mind find balance and tranquility.

Uses

Historical Uses:
Valeriana officinalis has been used since ancient Greece and Rome as a nervine tonic, where it was prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and nervous disorders. In medieval Europe, it was often called “All-Heal” for its versatile uses in treating wounds, pain, and restlessness. Valeriana sitchensis, on the other hand, was traditionally used by indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest for calming the mind, treating fevers, and enhancing dreams during spiritual rituals.

Current Uses:

Valeriana officinalis: Widely used as a powerful sleep aid, this species is known for addressing insomnia, restlessness, and anxiety. Its fast-acting effects make it a favorite in herbal sleep and anxiety formulas.
Valeriana sitchensis: A more gentle alternative, often used for mild anxiety, tension headaches, and to soothe the nervous system without the stronger sedative effects of V. officinalis. It is also valued in spiritual practices for its ability to enhance dreamwork and support emotional clarity.

Cautions

Toxicity:
A small percentage of individuals (5–10%), especially those with a hot or tense constitution, may experience paradoxical reactions to Valeriana spp., including agitation, restlessness, insomnia, vivid dreams, or palpitations. Mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic hypersensitivity may also occur.

Contraindications:
Use with caution during pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. Avoid in situations where sedation may be dangerous (e.g., driving, operating machinery). Caution in individuals prone to paradoxical CNS reactions or sensitive cardiovascular systems is advised, though valerian does not typically act as a stimulant.

Interactions:
Valeriana spp. may enhance the effects of sedative medications, including benzodiazepines, prescription sleep aids, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and alcohol. Use with caution if taking multiple nervous system medications.

Known Chemical Constituents

Valeriana officinalis is rich in valepotriates, valerenic acid, and unique alkaloids that contribute to its strong sedative, antispasmodic, and anxiolytic effects.

Valeriana sitchensis contains a similar but less concentrated array of active constituents, offering a milder and more adaptable profile for sensitive individuals.
Both species possess flavonoids and volatile oils that support nervous system relaxation, anti-inflammatory action, and emotional calming.

Botanical Description

Habitat:

Valeriana officinalis is native to Europe and Asia and prefers temperate climates with moist soils. It is often found growing in grasslands, along riverbanks, and in meadows.

Valeriana sitchensis thrives in the Pacific Northwest of North America, especially in alpine meadows and mountainous regions. It grows at higher altitudes and is adapted to cooler, more rugged environments.

Leaves:

Valeriana officinalis has broad, deeply lobed leaves arranged in pairs along the stem. The leaves are green with a slightly coarse texture.

Valeriana sitchensis features narrower, lance-shaped leaves, which are often a bit smaller than those of V. officinalis, reflecting its adaptation to alpine habitats.

Stems:

Valeriana officinalis produces a tall, hollow stem that can reach up to 5 feet in height.

Valeriana sitchensis tends to grow shorter, between 1 and 3 feet, with a sturdier stem better suited to withstand the windy, cooler conditions of its mountainous environment.

Flowers:

Both species produce small, pale pink or white flowers in dense clusters. V. officinalis has larger and more compact flower clusters, while V. sitchensis produces smaller, looser clusters. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer.

Roots:

The roots of both species are the primary medicinal part used. V. officinalis has larger, more fibrous roots with a strong, earthy scent that some find unpleasant. V. sitchensis, in contrast, has a milder scent and a more delicate root system, making it suitable for those sensitive to the potent smell of V. officinalis.

Fun Facts

During World War I, valerian was used to calm soldiers suffering from shell shock (now known as PTSD), providing a natural remedy for nervous tension and stress.

Parts Used

Root

Harvest

Timing:

For both species, the roots are best harvested in autumn, after the aerial parts have died back and the plant’s energy has returned to the roots. This ensures the highest concentration of active compounds.
Valeriana officinalis is often harvested after its second growing season to allow the roots to fully develop.
Valeriana sitchensis, being a more delicate alpine species, is also harvested in the autumn but is often collected earlier, especially in regions where the growing season is shorter.

Method:

Carefully dig around the base of the plant, ensuring you collect the entire root system. Wash the roots gently and dry them for use in teas, tinctures, or powders.

Storage:

Dried roots from both species should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve their potency. When properly stored, they can last up to one year.

Preparations

Teas and Decoctions:

Both Valeriana officinalis and Valeriana sitchensis can be prepared as a tea or decoction. The roots are simmered gently for 15-20 minutes to extract the sedative and calming properties. V. officinalis is often used in stronger doses for insomnia and anxiety, while V. sitchensis is better suited for milder anxiety or dreamwork.

Tinctures:

V. officinalis is commonly tinctured to provide a quick-acting sedative for acute anxiety or insomnia. V. sitchensis can also be tinctured but is used more for gentle relaxation and emotional balance.

Powders:

The roots of both species can be dried and ground into a powder, used in capsules or mixed into formulas designed for calming and soothing tension. V. officinalis is often used for its stronger effects, while V. sitchensis is more gentle and can be used over longer periods without the sedative heaviness.

Sacred Rituals

Prepare a valerian root tincture or tea, choosing Valeriana officinalis for deep relaxation or Valeriana sitchensis for gentle emotional release. Light a white candle to symbolize calm. Sit quietly, holding your valerian preparation, and take deep, slow breaths. As you exhale, focus on releasing any tension or mental clutter. After a few minutes, drink the valerian, visualizing it soothing and grounding your energy. Conclude by extinguishing the candle, giving thanks for the herb’s calming presence.

Affirmations

“I welcome peace and calm into my life. My body and mind are at ease, and I am deeply connected to the serenity within.”

Spiritual Associations

Valeriana officinalis is frequently used in sleep rituals to enhance rest and prevent nightmares. Its stronger sedative properties make it ideal for those seeking deep relaxation and to clear negative energy before sleep.

Valeriana sitchensis, with its gentler energy, is traditionally used in dream enhancement rituals, particularly for promoting lucid dreaming and spiritual clarity. Indigenous cultures of the Pacific Northwest would use the root to calm the mind and connect to higher spiritual realms through dreams.