Flowering Months:
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Family:
Valerianaceae (Valerian)
Maximum Size:
2 metres tall
Habitats:
Ditches, gardens, grassland, hedgerows, marshes, meadows, mountains, riverbanks, scrub, waterside, wetland, woodland.
The Common Valerian produces clusters of small, fragrant, pink or white flowers. The blossoms are arranged in dense, umbrella-like inflorescences, creating a visually appealing display in meadows and grasslands. The flowers have a delicate and charming appearance, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to contribute to the plant's reproductive process.
Fruit:
The fruit of Common Valerian consists of small, rounded, dry seed capsules. These capsules contain tiny seeds and are formed after the flowering period. The fruits are dispersed by wind, allowing the plant to propagate and colonize new areas in meadows and grasslands.
Leaves:
The leaves of Common Valerian in the UK are pinnate, meaning they are divided into smaller leaflets arranged on opposite sides of the central stem. These green, lance-shaped leaflets have serrated edges and are typically arranged in pairs along the stem. The leaves contribute to the overall lush appearance of the plant, adding to its aesthetic appeal in meadows and grasslands.
Aroma:
The fragrance of Common Valerian is often described as sweet, earthy, and slightly musky. The plant emits a pleasant aroma, particularly from its flowers and roots. Some compare the scent of Valerian roots to that of root beer. This fragrance is known to be attractive to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the plant's ecological role in meadows and grasslands.
Other Names:
All-heal, Amantilla, Belgian Valerian, Capon's Tail, Cat's Valerian, Cut-finger, Cut-heal, Cut-heal, English Valerian, European Valerian, Fragrant Valerian, Garden Heliotrope, Garden Valerian, German Valerian, Great Wild Valerian, Greek Valerian, Hardy Heliotrope, Heliotrope, Herb Bennet, Hercules' All-heal, Indian Valerian, Medicinal Valerian, Mexican Valerian, Musk Root, Pacific Valerian, Setewale, Setwall, Setwell, St George's Herb, Summer Heliotrope, Vandal Root, Wild Valerian.
Frequency (UK):
Occasionally seen
Summary
Valeriana officinalis, also known as Common Valerian, is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a member of the Valerianaceae family, and is known for its medicinal properties. The root of the plant is commonly used as a natural remedy for anxiety, insomnia, and other sleep disorders. It is also used to treat a variety of other health conditions, such as headaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle tension. The plant has small white or pink flowers and it has a strong odor that some people find unpleasant. Valerian is generally considered safe when used as directed, but it may interact with certain medications, so it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking it.
Blog
Common Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a medicinal herb that has been used for thousands of years to treat various ailments. It is native to Europe and Asia and is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world. The plant has delicate, lacy foliage and produces small, fragrant flowers that bloom in the summer.
Valerian has long been used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and nervousness. It is believed to work by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate mood and relaxation. When taken in supplement form, valerian can help promote a sense of calm and relaxation, making it an effective natural remedy for stress and anxiety.
In addition to its use as a natural remedy for stress and anxiety, valerian has also been used to treat a variety of other health conditions. For example, it has been used to help relieve menstrual cramps, headaches, and digestive problems. It may also help improve sleep quality, making it a useful remedy for insomniacs.
Valerian is available in a variety of forms, including dried root, capsules, and tea. The dried root is often used to make a tea or tincture, while the capsules contain a concentrated extract of the root. The recommended dosage varies depending on the form of valerian being taken, but most supplements recommend taking 300 to 600 milligrams per day.
While valerian is generally considered safe for most people, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking it, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you are taking any prescription medications. Some people may experience side effects from taking valerian, such as dizziness, headache, or dry mouth. If you experience any adverse reactions, stop taking the supplement and speak with your doctor.
Common Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a versatile medicinal herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Its ability to help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and relieve other health conditions has made it a popular natural remedy for centuries. If you're looking for a natural way to promote relaxation and manage stress, valerian may be worth considering.
Valerian root has a long history of use as a calming herb in traditional medicine systems. In ancient Greece and Rome, valerian root was used as a remedy for insomnia, anxiety, and digestive problems. In traditional Chinese medicine, it was used to treat anxiety, nervousness, and sleep problems.
Valerian root contains a number of compounds that are believed to contribute to its calming effects, including valerenic acid and valepotriates. Some studies have suggested that these compounds may interact with the brain's GABA receptors to promote relaxation and calmness. However, more research is needed to fully understand how valerian root works and the mechanisms behind its calming effects.
Valerian root supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, teas, and tinctures. The recommended dose of valerian root varies depending on the form of the supplement and the person's age, weight, and other factors. For example, a typical dose of dried valerian root for tea is one to two teaspoons per cup of boiling water, steeped for 10 to 15 minutes.
Valerian root is considered safe for most people when taken in the recommended doses. However, it can cause side effects in some people, including dizziness, headache, and dry mouth. It can also interact with certain medications, including prescription sedatives, so it's important to talk to your doctor before taking valerian root if you're taking any medications.
Common Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a popular herb that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety and stress. While more research is needed to fully understand how it works, valerian root supplements are considered safe for most people when taken in the recommended doses. If you're looking for a natural way to manage stress and promote relaxation, valerian root may be worth considering. However, it's important to talk to your doctor before taking any new supplement, especially if you have any health conditions or take prescription medications.
Valerian root has also been shown to have potential benefits for other health conditions. For example, some studies have suggested that valerian root may help reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats. It may also have a mild pain-relieving effect, making it a potential remedy for headaches, menstrual cramps, and other types of pain.
Valerian root may also have a beneficial effect on heart health. Some animal studies have suggested that valerian root may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. However, more research is needed to determine the effects of valerian root on heart health in humans.
In addition to its medicinal uses, valerian root is also used in perfumes, soaps, and other cosmetic products due to its fragrant aroma. The essential oil of valerian root is extracted from the root and used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and calmness.
It's worth noting that valerian root may not be effective for everyone, and results can vary depending on the individual. Some people may not notice any effects from taking valerian root, while others may experience significant benefits. If you're considering taking valerian root for stress or anxiety, it's important to talk to your doctor about the right dosage and frequency for you.
In conclusion, Common Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a versatile herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine. It has been shown to have potential benefits for stress and anxiety, as well as other health conditions, such as menopause, headaches, and heart health. While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of valerian root, it is considered safe for most people when taken in the recommended doses. If you're looking for a natural way to promote relaxation and manage stress, valerian root may be worth considering.
30 Fun Common Valerian Facts
-
Floral Symphony: Common Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is known for its delicate, fragrant flowers that contribute to the natural symphony of meadows and grasslands.
-
Medieval Remedies: In medieval times, Common Valerian was used as a medicinal herb, believed to have properties that could promote relaxation and sleep.
-
Roots of Calm: The root of the Valerian plant is often used in herbal supplements and teas for its potential calming effects on the nervous system.
-
Catnip Cousin: Common Valerian is a close relative of catnip, and some cats are attracted to its scent, exhibiting behaviors similar to those induced by catnip.
-
Sun Seekers: Valerian plants prefer sunny locations but can also tolerate partial shade, making them adaptable to various environments.
-
Ancient Medicine: Valerian has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.
-
Hardy Perennial: Common Valerian is a hardy perennial plant, returning year after year with its charming blooms.
-
Natural Insect Repellent: The strong aroma of Valerian is believed to repel certain insects, adding to its ecological significance.
-
Butterfly Magnet: The fragrant flowers of Valerian attract butterflies, making it a favorite in butterfly gardens.
-
Scattering Seeds: Valerian spreads its seeds by wind, allowing it to colonize new areas and create beautiful meadows.
-
Root Beer Scent: Some describe the fragrance of Valerian roots as reminiscent of root beer, adding a unique aromatic aspect to the plant.
-
Bees' Delight: Bees are attracted to the nectar-rich flowers of Common Valerian, contributing to pollination and biodiversity.
-
European Origin: Common Valerian is native to Europe but has been naturalized in other parts of the world.
-
Herbal Sleep Aid: Valerian supplements are commonly used as a natural remedy for insomnia and sleep disorders.
-
Ancient Lore: Valerian has a place in ancient folklore, where it was believed to have magical properties and protection against evil spirits.
-
Tall and Graceful: Common Valerian can reach heights of up to five feet, creating a tall and graceful presence in meadows.
-
Perfume Ingredient: Valerian oil, extracted from its roots, is used in the perfume industry to add a unique note to fragrances.
-
Alkaloid Rich: The Valerian plant contains alkaloids, compounds that contribute to its potential therapeutic effects.
-
Valerian Tea: Valerian root is often used to make a soothing tea, promoting relaxation and stress relief.
-
Native American Use: Native American tribes also utilized Valerian for various medicinal purposes, recognizing its potential benefits.
-
Drought Tolerance: Common Valerian is relatively drought-tolerant, making it adaptable to varying weather conditions.
-
Heart-Shaped Leaves: The leaves of Valerian are heart-shaped, adding to the plant's overall charm.
-
Garden Ornament: Valerian is not just valued for its medicinal properties but is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens.
-
Cultural Symbolism: In some cultures, Valerian is associated with love and was used in love potions and spells.
-
Bioaccumulator: Valerian has the ability to accumulate certain minerals from the soil, contributing to soil health.
-
Modern Herbalism: Valerian root is a popular ingredient in modern herbalism, found in various herbal preparations.
-
Folk Names: Common Valerian is known by various folk names, including All-Heal, St. George’s Herb, and Garden Heliotrope.
-
Natural Relaxant: Valerian is often included in herbal blends designed to promote relaxation and ease tension.
-
Historical Gardens: Valerian was a common feature in medieval monastery gardens, cultivated for its medicinal properties.
-
Cultural Adaptation: As Valerian spread across different regions, it adapted to local ecosystems, resulting in various subspecies and cultivars.
Video
Common Valerian filmed at the following locations:
- Hutton Roof, Cumbria: 25th May 2023
- Kentmere, Cumbria: 1st June 2023
- Daneway Banks, Gloucestershire: 27th June 2023
- Dowdeswell Woods, Gloucestershire: 29th June 2023
Please remember to Like and Subscribe to the WildFlowerWeb YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@wildflower-web
Wild Flower Web