Valerian

Valerian, Valeriana officinalis, has one of the longest histories of use among European medicinal herbs. Records of medicinal use go back to at least the first century AD, while its reputation as a herb for nervousness and sleep became especially established during the Middle Ages. Historically, valerian was used for a broader range of purposes, but over time its association with calming the nervous system and supporting sleep became the use for which it is best known. The important part of the plant is underground. In herbal medicine, the root and closely associated underground structures—including the rhizome and rootlets—are the parts traditionally harvested and prepared. The European Pharmacopoeia describes valerian root as the dried underground parts of Valeriana officinalis, including the rhizome, roots and stolons. That makes the root much more than a visual feature of the plant. It is the part from which the traditional herbal extracts used for relaxation and sleep support are produced. Why has Valerian remained relevant? Valerian's continued use is largely connected with two closely related areas: settling nervous activity and supporting sleep. This fits closely with the traditional way valerian has been used: not simply to “knock someone out”, but to help the body move from a state of restlessness toward one more conducive to sleep. The practical relevance of Valerian today Modern life provides plenty of reasons why people can find it difficult to wind down, late-night stimulation, irregular routines, mental activity and disrupted sleep patterns. This is where valerian's traditional role remains relevant.