Common Name: Valerian
Botanical Name: Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as Valerian, is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. It’s well-known for its sweet-scented flowers and medicinal root, which is used as a sleep aid.
Medicinally, Valerian root is most commonly used for its sedative properties, helping to treat sleep disorders such as insomnia. It’s also used to reduce anxiety and psychological stress.
In beauty, Valerian is occasionally used in spa and wellness products for its calming effects.
An interesting fact about Valerian is that it has been used as a medicinal herb since at least the time of ancient Greece and Rome, where it was prescribed for a variety of ailments.