Valerian – 10 Seeds

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), commonly called garden heliotrope, common valerian or all-heal, is a clumping perennial with scented leaves, stems, flowers and roots. It typically grows in damp locations, but also can be found in drier soils. Leaves are aromatic when bruised.

Valerian grows to a height of 3-4′ and begins blooming early in the season, sometimes in late spring. The pink and white flowers grow in clusters and are favorite of many types of insects.

Valerian Uses

Extracts are used in perfumes, herbal teas and for flavoring in a variety of food products.

Valerian Benefits

Strong-smelling roots yield the drug valerian which has been used for many years in herbal medicines for treating a large number of problems.
Valerian root is probably best known as a remedy for insomnia. In addition to a sleep aid, it has been used for anxiety, stress, to treat addictions, convulsions, gas, pain, hyperactivity, intestinal cramping, migraines, aggression, nervous exhaustion, coughs, epilepsy, and the flu.

The plants are cultivated in Europe today for producing an over-the-counter tranquilizer. In Germany, valerian is used in more than 100 over-the-counter tranquilizers and is the number one nonprescription sedative in Europe.

It has also described as a nervine, hypnotic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, nervous system tonic, sedative, stomachic, expectorant, mild anodyne, and a smooth muscle relaxant.
Not for use during pregnancy or lactation.

Growing Valerian from seed

• Seeds can be direct sown outdoors in early spring, or started indoors 4 weeks prior to transplanting in late spring.
• Small seeds can be tamped into the soil or covered with a thin layer of soil, approximately 1/4″, and should germinate within 7-14 days with moist but well-drained potting mix.
• Easily grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soils in full sun. The plants tolerate some light shade, but stems may flop as the amount of shade increases.
• Valerian plants prefer moist, rich loam soil, but performs well in average garden soils. It needs a lot of watering though.
• Plants generally thrive in cool summer climates.
• It makes a great garden plant and helps nearby plants by stimulating phosphorus and earthworm activity.
• A decoction made from the roots and sprayed on the ground will attract earthworms.