Valeriana is a genus of more than 250 species of perennial herbs in the family Caprifoliaceae, native to Europe, Asia, South and North America.
The plant produces a tall stem with clusters of sweetly scented white, pink or lavender flowers. The flowers are star-like, tiny and beautiful. Valerian is a highly valued medicinal plant which has a wide impressive range of traditional medical applications.
The genus name comes from the Latin “valere”, which means “to be strong” or “to be healthy”, in reference to the plant’s medicinal properties.
Valerian represents health and strength.
It is a well known herb and valuable medicinal plant that has been utilized in the food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
Valerian has been used as a medicinal plant for centuries. It is a powerful medicinal herb that has been used for a variety of ailments.
The plant has been used to treat anxiety, depression, convulsions, epilepsy, menstrual cramps, tremors, stomach ache, muscle pain and headache. It is usually stated that it acts as a sedative on the central nervous system slowing down brain activity and allowing a person to fall asleep. It relieves stress and helps one to relax. In addition, it is known that the plant was used during the WWII to relieve stress from the constant bombing.
During the middle ages, the plant was used in culinary as a spice.
Another historical use for the plant was in perfumery. It was used for the preparation of perfumes in the 16th century.
