Herb of the day
Valerian
Valeriana officinalis
Root day: by tradition the part of the plant to gather today
A perennial with a strong, distinctive-smelling root, a traditional aid to falling asleep.
Description
A perennial up to 1.5 m tall, growing in damp meadows and along streams. The rootstock and roots are dug up in autumn. It contains valerenic acid, essential oil and valepotriates; its smell grows stronger when dried.
Traditional use
Traditionally used as a mild calming remedy and to help with falling asleep, as a tea or an extract.
Preparation
Cold infusion: soak a teaspoon (about 2–3 g) of chopped root in 200 ml of cold water for 8–10 hours, then strain. Drink half an hour to an hour before bed.
Caution
May cause drowsiness: do not drive or operate machinery afterwards. Do not combine with alcohol, sedatives or sleeping pills. Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding or for children under 12.