Valerian Seeds History

Valerian Seeds have been used as a medicinal herb since at least the time of ancient Greece and Rome. Hippocrates described its properties, and Galen later prescribed it as a remedy for insomnia. In the 16th century, the Anabaptist reformer Pilgrim Marpeck prescribed valerian tea for a sick woman. The seventeenth century astrological botanist Nicholas Culpeper thought the plant was “under the influence of Mercury, and therefore a warming faculty.” He recommended both herb and root, and said that “the root boiled with liquorice, raisons and aniseed is good for those troubled with cough.

How To Plant Valerian Seeds

It will grow in a wide variety of conditions, from full to sun to partial shade. As part of valerian herb plant care, you’ll need to water it frequently and cover it with mulch to help retain moisture. Also, a valerian herb plant will self-seed very readily. If you don’t want your plants to spread, remove the flowers before they have a chance to develop and drop seeds. Growing valerian herbs is very easy. Click here to learn more.

Preserving And Storing Your Herbs For Long Term Use

Treat soft herbs like a fresh bouquet of flowers. Fill a glass with cool water, Trim the ends of the stems, and then place the bunch in the glass. Change the water every couple of days to keep it fresh.  They’ll last a week or two stored this way. Click here to learn more about storing your Valerian herbs for long term use.

Valerian Plant Care

It will grow in a wide variety of conditions, from full to sun to partial shade and in any well-draining soil. It does, however, like to be kept moist. As part of valerian herb plant care, you’ll need to water it frequently and cover it with mulch to help retain moisture.

Cooking With Valerian

Brewing tea with Valerian is the oldest known way that humans have benefited from the relaxing properties of this root. Valerian tea may not be the most convenient form of this herbal remedy, since it requires a fairly long steeping time to achieve the strength needed to have its desired effect. But it’s a tried-and-true way of taking Valerian, and you may also benefit from the relaxing properties of brewing and then sipping a hot beverage. Click here to get this delicious drink.

Valerian Herb Uses

Valerian root contains a number of compounds that may promote sleep and reduce anxiety. These include valerenic acid, isovaleric acid and a variety of antioxidants. Valerian has received attention for its interaction with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical messenger that helps regulate nerve impulses in your brain and nervous system. This is the same way anti-anxiety medications like Valium and Xanax work.

Other Herb Varieties Worth Checking Out

 Boneset

 Cilantro