Valerian

🌿  (Valeriana officinalis) or Tagara

Also known as All-Heal, or Garden Heliotrope

📖 Overview

Valerian is a calming root traditionally used to support sleep, relaxation, and nervous system balance. With its earthy aroma and sedative-like properties, it has been used for centuries in European, Ayurvedic, and Western herbal systems as a natural sleep aid and soothing nervine.

In Ayurveda, Valerian is sometimes equated with Tagara, and is used to support Manas (the mind), Vata balance, and peaceful rest.

📜 Traditional Use in Herbal Systems

• Western Herbalism: Valerian was widely used during World War I and II to relieve stress and nervous tension

• Ayurveda: Considered grounding and calming to high Vata states, supporting deep rest and mental ease

• Unani & Greek Traditions: Valerian was valued as an “all-heal” for nervous agitation, melancholy, and epilepsy

🍵 Suggested Use

• Capsules/Tablets: Used to support sleep cycles and calm the nervous system

• Tincture: Often taken in the evening for sleep support or during the day for anxiety

• Powder/Churna: 1–2 grams in warm milk or ghee before bed

• Tea or Decoction: Bitter in flavor, traditionally combined with Chamomile or Lemon Balm

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Valerian’s activity is attributed to valerenic acid, iridoids, and volatile oils, which influence GABA activity—promoting calmness and relaxation:

• Sleep Support: Improves sleep latency and quality in mild to moderate insomnia [1]

• Anxiety Relief: Acts as a mild anxiolytic and muscle relaxant without the risk of dependence [2]

• Neurological Effects: May reduce excitatory activity in the brain and promote relaxation [3]

References:

1. Bent, S., et al. (2006). Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Medicine, 119(12), 1005–1012.

2. Fernández-San-Martín, M. I., et al. (2010). Efficacy of Valerian on insomnia: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Sleep Medicine, 11(6), 505–511.

3. Hattesohl, M., et al. (2008). Extracts of Valeriana officinalis increase GABA receptor activity. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 117(3), 519–525.

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

• May cause drowsiness—avoid driving after use

• Not recommended for use with alcohol or other sedatives

• Use caution in combination with sleep medications or antidepressants

• Rarely may cause vivid dreams or mild headache in sensitive individuals

🛍️ Shop by Interest

• Sleep Support

• Mood & Cognitive Support

• Nerves

• Products for Vata

"Products Featuring Valerian"

"These products feature Valerian, traditionally used to support restful sleep, relaxation, and nervous system calm. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."