Synonyms in a broader sense
Latin name: Valeriana officinalis, True Valerian English: Valerian
- Cat herb
- Turmeric
- Cat Root
- Tanmark
- Witchbane
- Ballerjan
- Cattleweed
- Moonroot
- Bodrian
- St. Georgensaft
- Eye Root
Explanation/Definition
Valerian is one of the oldest medicinal plants in folk medicine. The plant belongs to the valerian family (Valerianaceae). The subfamily of the valerianaceae contains about 200 different valerian plants.
These are mainly found in the temperate zones of Europe and North America, mainly in the forest regions. Valerian has been used in medicine since ancient times, but in its present form as a sedative only at the end of the 18th century. Only the entire rootstock is used for medicinal purposes.
This is dried and crushed. Propagation takes place through the seed or division of larger plants. The cultures come from England, Belgium, Eastern Europe and partly also from Germany.
The most important ingredients of valerian roots are essential oils in addition to valeric acids (mono- and sesquiterpenes). Valerionic acid their derivatives contain calming properties and inhibit the breakdown of a messenger substance. The calming effect of valerian roots in humans has been successfully proven in many studies.
Valerian roots have repeatedly been recommended in cases of restlessness and nervousness caused by difficulties in falling asleep. Valerian is a vigorous, herbaceous plant of the valerian family (Valerianaceae), which grows up to one metre high. The medicinal plant grows vigorously and persistently with upright, sparsely hairy stems and opposite leaves at the height of a half-shrub.
The umbel-like inflorescence consists of rose-coloured and white flowers. The crown of the individual flowers is 3 to 6 mm long. The flowering period of valerian is between May and September.
The root is harvested in September and October. Valerian is native to Europe and Asia, and in our country it often grows along the edge of forests, roads and streams. It can be found on both wet and dry soils.
However, valerian as a medicinal herb is mostly cultivated. The subterranean parts of the plant are used medicinally (as with the devil’s claw). Only the dried root develops the typical smell.
The roots of the valerian plants contain various components that are said to have a medicinal effect. Proven medically effective components of valerian roots are valerenic acid and valerenol. In placebo studies, a mild medicinal effect has been proven.
These two substances have a calming effect on mental stress and sleep disorders. Furthermore, valerian roots still contain essential oils, which can help with gastrointestinal complaints due to their antispasmodic effects. Lastly, valerian roots also contain alkaloids, which are particularly helpful for heartburn and stomach problems caused by acidity in the stomach, as they counteract the acidity produced.