Valerian Root

Valerian Root – Deep Rest & Nervous System Support

Botanical Name: Valeriana officinalis
Category: Medicinal Herb | Dried Root | Calming Nervine & Sleep Aid
Form: Dried Root (cut & sifted) | Tincture 

Description

Valerian Root is one of the most trusted herbs in Western herbalism for promoting deep, restorative sleep, calming the nervous system, and easing anxiety and tension. Used for centuries in European and traditional medicine, valerian’s sedative and muscle-relaxing properties make it a go-to remedy for insomnia, restlessness, stress-related tension, and even menstrual or digestive cramping.

While its earthy aroma may be strong, its effects are gentle, grounding, and reliable—supporting not just the body, but also the overactive mind.

Medicinal Benefits

💤 Natural Sleep Aid: Promotes relaxation and helps reduce the time it takes to fall asleep

🧠 Nervous System Calmative: Eases anxiety, agitation, and nervous irritability

💪 Muscle Relaxant: Relieves tension headaches, menstrual cramps, and stress-related body aches

💗 Supports Heart Rhythm: May benefit palpitations and racing heart from anxiety

🧘 Balances the Stress Response: Works as a mild adaptogen for those experiencing chronic nervous tension

How to Use (Dosing Guidelines)

🌿 Herbal Tea (Decoction or Infusion):

Use 1–2 tsp dried root per cup of hot water

Steep covered for 10–15 minutes (longer for stronger sedative effect)

Drink 30–60 minutes before bed for sleep, or 2–3 times daily for anxiety

💧 Tincture:

Sleep support: 1–3 mL (30–90 drops) 30 minutes before bedtime

Anxiety/stress: 0.5–1 mL, up to 3x daily

Best taken in a little water or tea

💊 Capsule or Powdered Root:

Typical dose: 300–600 mg, taken 1–2 times per day

Nighttime use: Take 30–60 minutes before sleep

Precautions & Contraindications

⚠️ May cause grogginess or vivid dreams in some individuals—adjust dosage as needed

❌ Do not combine with sedatives, alcohol, or sleep medications unless directed

🚫 Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Long-term use should be cycled (e.g., 3 weeks on, 1 week off) to avoid tolerance

Energetic Profile

Taste: Bitter, pungent, earthy

Energetics: Cooling, moistening

Affinities: Nervous system, muscles, heart, uterus

Element: Water

Chakra: Third Eye & Root

Summary

Valerian Root is nature’s deep exhale—a grounding, sedative herb ideal for quieting the mind, relaxing the body, and supporting deep, uninterrupted rest. Whether used at bedtime or during the day to ease nervous tension, Valerian is a trusted herbal ally for today’s fast-paced world.