- Latin name
- Valeriana officinalis
- Element
- water
- Planet
- Mercury
- Safe to eat?
- No, not for eating or drinking
How to use it
- Tuck a little dried root into a sleep sachet
- Hang flowering stems in the home for peace
- Add dried root to love charms
- Sprinkle around the home to calm quarrels
Lore
The Greek physician Galen prescribed valerian for sleeplessness, and it has been used as a sedative herb in Europe ever since. Its root smells strongly and attracts cats, and folk tellings say the Pied Piper carried it to lure rats.
Safety
Causes drowsiness, so do not drive or use machinery after taking it, and do not combine it with alcohol, sleeping pills or other sedatives. Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding and before surgery. Stop gradually after long use. Seek medical advice before taking it internally.
Not for eating or drinking.