Valerian is a perennial herb with short rhizomes, aromatic feathery leaves and clusters of small pink or white flowers that bloom from June through to September. The plant is native to Europe, North America, and the northern part of Asia. Valerian essential oil is steam distilled from the plant’s rhizomes (roots).
Valerian has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient times. Both Hippocrates and Galen recommended Valerian as a remedy for insomnia and it has been used for similar purposes in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Valerian was also used in many traditional love potions and aphrodisiacs.
The name Valerian is derived from the Latin verb 'valere' which means 'to be well' or 'to feel good'. The name reflects the medicinal properties of the herb which was also known to herbalists as 'all heal'.
Valerian root distilled from the root has been used for centuries. During the last three decades, it has been clinically investigated for its relaxing properties.
Researchers have pinpointed the sesquiterpenes, valerenic acid, and valerone as the active constituents that exert a calming and restorative effect on the central nervous system. German health authorities have pronounced valerian to be an effective aid for the body's needs.
The fragrance is very calming and grounding to the body and mind. It has a musty and woody aroma that most people either like or don’t like! But, animals seem to resonate very well with this oil.
That is why Valerian root is perfect for restlessness, occasional sleeplessness and any accident, trauma or emergency.
Valerian is a calming and grounding essential oil with tranquilizing properties. It can help to calm and relax the nervous system and can be beneficial for anxiety, stress, depression, restlessness, insomnia and for helping people cope with emotional trauma and tension.
Valerian Root essential oil can assist with pain relief and relax spasms. It is can be used to treat migraines, PMS and painful periods. It can also help to lower blood pressure, stimulate the appetite, improve digestion and help combat stress-related indigestion.