ENGLISH NAME: Valerian
LATIN NAME: Valeriana officinalis
LOCAL NAMES:
Georgia: კატაბალახა (Katabalakha)
Czechia: Kozlík lékařský
Turkey: Kediotu
Bulgaria: Валериана (Valeriana)
COUNTRY: Georgia,
Czechia, Turkey, Bulgaria
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Guria (Georgia), Central Europe, the Balkans
Elevation: Lowlands to moderate elevations
Terrain: Meadows, riverbanks, grassy open areas
DESCRIPTION:
Valeriana officinalis, or valerian, is a perennial herb growing 1–2 meters
tall. It has erect, hollow stems with oppositely arranged, fern-like leaves consisting
of serrated leaflets. At the top, umbrella-shaped clusters of small, fragrant
pink, white, or lavender flowers bloom in late spring or early summer. Its
thick, gnarled roots are notable for their strong, earthy, musky aroma.
USABLE PARTS: Roots, leaves,
and flowers
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Roots: Rich in valerenic acid and valeranon, valerian roots are valued
for their sedative effects and are traditionally used to ease insomnia,
anxiety, and stress, promoting relaxation and restful sleep.
Leaves and Flowers: Less commonly used, but may contribute trace amounts
of volatile oils and aromatic compounds.
UNDESIRED
EFFECTS:
May cause drowsiness or sleepiness. Avoid activities requiring alertness (e.g.,
driving) after use.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Use caution when combining valerian with other sedative medications or alcohol,
as effects may be additive.
PREPARATION:
Valerian root is typically prepared as a tea or tincture.
Tea: Clean and dry
the roots, then chop into small pieces. Use 1 tsp to 1 tbsp dried root per cup
of hot water. Steep for 5–10 minutes, strain, and drink.
Tincture: Steep chopped
roots in alcohol for several weeks, then strain for use in small, controlled
doses.
Leaves &
Flowers:
Clean and dry, then use 1–2 tsp per cup for a mild infusion.
HARVEST TIME:
Late summer or early fall
HARVEST METHOD:
Gently dig around the base to expose and extract the roots, shaking off excess
soil. Trim foliage, leaving some plants for future growth and reseeding. Avoid
washing roots to preserve active compounds.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Thoroughly dry roots in a single layer, in a well-ventilated, shaded area. Once
fully dried, store in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Label with
harvest date and check periodically for moisture or spoilage.