VALERIAN (Valeriana officinalis) aka - Capon’s Tail, All-Heal, Garden Heliotrope, English Valerian

Valerian root has been used for many centuries to calm all kinds of nervous disorders. It slows the action of the heart, while increasing its general force. Valerian root is a sedative used when sleep disorders are the result of anxiety, nervousness, exhaustion, headache or hysteria. It has been used for these purposes since pre-Christian times and is cited in virtually every pharmacopoeia in the world. Nature’s tranquilizer, Valerian, calms the nerves without the side effects of synthetic drugs. Besides acting upon the circulatory system, it stimulates secretions and peristalsis of the stomach and intestines. Valerian is suggested for cases of heart palpitation, because it slows down the heart rate while increasing the strength of the beats. It works to calm the nerves and also relieves pain and spasms. Valerian is beneficial for the heart, lungs, liver, and stomach, as well as the nerves and the brain. It may also help with epilepsy, hysteria, migraines, and in eliminating worms. It is a strong nervine herb that produces a calming effect to aid individuals suffering from insomnia, anxiety, muscle spasms, and nervous tension. Studies have found that Valerian can produce a deep, satisfying sleep similar to the common sleep aids often prescribed. But Valerian has an advantage over such medication in that it does not cause morning grogginess. Valerian is believed to be safe, and there appear to be no contraindications to its use, even during pregnancy and lactation.