
Valerian
Valeriana officinalis
Aromatic Note: Base note
Description:
One of about 200 species in the genus.
Use of this attractive plant dates back to at least Hippocrates in the 4th century BC and appears in many Anglo-Saxon herbal texts.
Since the Middle Ages its been used as a cure-all and in WWI was used to treat shell-shock.
Today, Valerian root is recognized as a safe, effective sedative that doesn’t react with alcohol or cause dependency.
Valerian attracts cats and is used in baits to trap wild cats and rodents.
Monograph:
Family: Valerianaceae
Synonyms: common valerian, garden heliotrope
Origin: Western Europe
Parts Used: dried rhizomes (roots)
Aroma Description: very strong, green-balsamic, musky, woody, slightly camphoraceous and sour aroma
Cosmetic Uses: perfumery, aromatherapy
Culinary Uses: used in herbal teas, extracts are used to flavor ice cream, bakery products, condiments, soft drinks, liqueurs, beers, tobacco, etc.
Medicinal Attributes: bitter, sedative, warming herb that is sued to calm the nerves, relax spasms, improve digestion, relieve pain, treat insomnia, and lower blood pressure. May cause drowsiness.
*Warning: Do not use if currently on sedative drugs or antidepressants.
Essential Oil: Yes, a steam distilled essential oil and a solvent extracted absolute are both made. There is also a lesser-quality “Indian Valerian” absolute made from the species Valeriana Wallichii.
Mixes Well With: cedarwood, lavender, musk seeds, oakmoss, patchouli, pine needles, rosemary, vetiver, tobacco, etc.
Attributes
Products & Learning

Valerian Root
raw aromatics

Valerian Root Essential Oils
from [company name]

Japense Incense
Baiedo, Shoyeido, and Others
Learn Aromatherapy
from JennScents Aromaversity