Valerian: benefits and uses in phytotherapy

How to recognize valerian

Also known as cure-all or hill valerian, valerian is a 1.50 m tall plant belonging to the Caprifoliaceae family. It is characterized by tall stems bearing deciduous, opposite, finely dissected leaves. Between spring and summer, valerian blooms with small white to pink flowers. These highly fragrant flowers are particularly attractive to bees and other insects. The plant’s distinctive scent also attracts cats. This is why valerian is also known as catnip. Valerian generally flowers in its first year. However, it blooms more profusely from the second year onwards. The plant’s flowers grow in a corymb at the top of a long, hollow, fluted stem. Although it has several stems, valerian blooms from just one stem per plant. It is these plants that reproduce and group together to form superb, imposing flower beds. If not pruned in time, the plants can quickly become invasive. Valerian roots are thick, brown rhizomes. Like the rest of the plant, they give off an unattractive scent. Valerian also has the advantage of being easy to grow and maintain. For best results, we recommend growing it in cool, well-drained soil with a neutral to chalky pH. Valerian thrives best in sunny, more northerly areas. Everywhere else, especially in southern areas, it prefers light shade. For beautiful flowerbeds all summer long, we recommend cultivating valerian in early spring, in March and April. Valerian is a hardy plant. It is exceptionally hardy and can withstand sub-zero temperatures down to -20°C.

To make the most of valerian’s benefits

Valerian is naturally rich in active ingredients. It contains bomyl acetate, beta-caryophyllene and valepotriates (iridoids). It also contains varying levels of terpenoids and alkaloids. These active compounds are mainly found in the plant’s roots and rhizome. These different elements act synergistically to promote both mental and physical well-being. Valerian roots and rhizomes are most often consumed in the form of dried extracts. Capsules and tablets are easier to swallow. However, manufacturers also offer herbal tea powder. For a cup of herbal tea, we recommend using around 3 g of root extract, or one teaspoon, in 200 ml of water. Simply bring the water to the boil, then add the valerian extracts. To optimize extraction of the active ingredients, we recommend leaving the mixture to infuse for around ten minutes. Ideally, the herbal tea should be drunk before bedtime. As with all herbal products, valerian-based dietary supplements should be taken in moderation. We encourage you to follow the dosage instructions carefully. To optimize the effect of dietary supplements, you should also respect the recommended duration of the cure. This can last from a few days to several months, depending on the case. In case of doubt, or for further information, it’s always best to seek the advice of a phytotherapist. This reliable professional is the only one able to give you sound, personalized advice on product consumption. In addition, whatever the format of the dietary supplement chosen for the cure, it’s best to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Eating a healthy, varied and balanced diet also contributes to your well-being. In addition to its use in phytotherapy, valerian, particularly its flowers, can be used to decorate and brighten up dishes. Gourmets will even go so far as to associate the bitterness of the plant’s flowers with the exquisite tastes of fish or starchy foods such as semolina.