| David Michael Cain, you are receiving this email because you purchased The Forager’s Guide to Wild Foods ➤ Read it on The Lost HerbsHi David Michael Cain, Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a household name in complementary and homeopathic herbal remedies for inducing sleep. This herb has hypnotic, sedative, and anti-spasmodic properties. It is often a common ingredient in sleep aid medicine and mild sedatives. Some companies are also working on incorporating valerian root in sleep-supporting ice cream and beverages. These products are marketed as food supplements and not as food and remain under the close watch of the FDA. The roots are the most valuable part of the valerian plant, and they are obtained for medicinal purposes. Oil extracts from its leaves are also used as an ingredient for baked goods. Although its roots exude an unpleasant stale stench, its flowers produce a pleasant smell that is used in perfume preparation. Valerian is also used as a cat relaxant or an alternative to catnip. In areas of pests infestations, it is often used as a vermin trap because of its foul smell.How To Identify ValerianValerian is an invasive flowering perennial plant that grows up to 2 meters. It can grow tall and slender but its stems may flop in full shade. This deciduous plant has a clumping habit with a rapid growth rate. Its trumpet-like star flowers contain both types of reproductive organs.Leaves. Valerian has a set of clumping or rosette basal leaves that are compound with odd to pinnate shapes. It appears in the lower part of the stem consisting of about 4 to 9 pairs of leaflets. Valerian leaves are green and covered with prickles. The leaf type changes as it moves higher up the stem. It becomes shorter, less lobed, and with shorter petioles.  Stem. Valerian has numerous grooved and hollow stalks. In favorable conditions, the stems would grow erect and reach a height of up to 4 feet. The stems are sparsely-leaved with fine hairs that are denser at the nodes.Flowers. The fragrant flowers of the valerian bloom white or pink blossoms from June to August.The showy flowers are star-shaped and fused into a cyme or central flower with peripheral blooms. They are arranged into umbels or clusters that are about 2 to 5 inches across.  Fruits and Seeds. Valerian fruits are dry and small egg-shaped capsules. It is yellow and covered with a tuft of white hair containing one oblong seed each.Roots. Valerian has a short and cylindrical rhizome, and bushy round and slender roots. These roots are yellow to brown, which contains the yellowish-green or brownish-yellow volatile oil.What Valerian Root Is Good For And Natural Remedies Made From ItValerian is a powerful nervine, an herb that has therapeutic effects on the nervous system. Its most effective medicinal function is in treating insomnia and neurological disorders. Its root compound works on the nervous system to promote deep relaxation and relieve anxiety. It is also an effective medicine for mood swings, paranoia, and phobias. The anticonvulsant property of valerian makes it a therapeutic alternative for epileptic patients. With its ability to relieve oxidative stress, it is considered a treatment for Parkinson’s disease. The essential oil of valerian contains compounds that can lower blood pressure, and regulate the heart rate. It can regulate blood lipid levels that can promote cardiovascular health. Valerian is also a diuretic that is used for treating urinary tract disorders. In children, studies show that it can help improve memory to support their focus and learning. It can also manage hyperactivity in children with ADHD. Valerian is a popular herb in treating women’s reproductive problems. For many years, it is considered a potent home remedy for alleviating menstrual and uterine problems like dysmenorrhea and endometriosis. Valerian root has phytoestrogens, making it an effective treatment for hot flashes in menopause. With its antifungal property, valerian can curb the growth of molds on any surface. Thus, it is an effective treatment for ulcers, eczema, and minor wounds when applied externally. When taken properly, the valerian root is seen to cure the following health conditions: • Heart problems (arrhythmia, bradycardia, palpitation, angina, etc.) • Sleep disorders (insomnia, sleep apnea, jet lag) • Panic attack, anxiety • Epilepsy• Parkinson’s disease • Nerve disorders • Neurological conditions • Menstrual cramps, endometriosis • High blood pressure • Urinary problems • Lower back pains • Minor wounds and skin problems • Migraine • Abdominal cramps and flatulence  Relaxing Valerian InfusionIngredients:• 1-2 tsp valerian root • 1 cup of water • Raw honey, optional Steps: 1. Put the valerian root in a tea infuser with a cover. If none, a jar or container with a cover is fine.  2. Bring water to a simmer but not boiling and pour it over the valerian root 3. Cover the tea infuser/container to retain all the volatile oils. Let the valerian root infuse for about 30 minutes. 4. Remove the infuser from the cup. If using a covered container, strain the infusion into a cup and enjoy. You may also add raw honey to manage its unpleasant smell. How To Use This Remedy:Valerian infusion is potent when it is freshly brewed and gets less effective the longer it sits. So, prepare the infusion only when you are ready to consume it. If you want to use valerian tea as a sleep aid, consume it at least 30 minutes to two hours before bedtime. When using the supplement, the safe doses are between 300 to 600 mg daily. Do not take valerian root for more than 6 weeks to avoid its adverse effect.Warnings And CautionsValerian root is likely safe for consumption in moderate amounts. Excessive consumption may cause side effects like headaches and uneasiness. The safety of valerian roots in pregnant and breastfeeding mothers is not yet established. Thus, valerian should be avoided by women in this group. Do not use valerian in children without professional supervision. They are not also for use in children below three years old. Always consult a medical professional when taking herbal remedies like valerian.Stop Spending Money At The Pharmacy By Growing These 10 Plants  You can follow us on: |