Herb of the Day: Valerian

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has found a spot in gardens as a sought-after, beautiful, decorative flower. What most growers don't realize, however, is that they're growing a powerful herb. Valerian is a perennial that flowers in summer. It grows best in Zone 4 but can be grown in Zones 4-7. Hippocrates studied it and has a long-standing history of use in herbal medicine. In fact, the name itself derives from the Latin word meaning "to be strong, healthy." While the most common use of this herb is for sleep support, herbalists also choose it for many other reasons. Herbalists use the roots of the Valerian plant in herbal preparations. It is used to make a variety of herbal preparations, including tinctures, teas, capsules, and more.  

Fast facts about Valerian:

• It is often used instead of, or in rotation with, melatonin
• Cats go wild with it, similar to catnip!
• During WWII, Valerian was used to help with shell shock
• Anxiety, depression, bipolar, and other psychiatric disorders may involve Valerian for support
• Studies have recently shown that it may help lower blood pressure
• Midwives love it for helping with afterbirth cramping
• Coughs, asthma, and other respiratory problems often respond well to this herb
• Menstrual cramps are another widespread use for Valerian by herbalists
• The nervous system and digestive system often react well to Valerian
• Stress management 

Note that long-term use is not recommended. Most herbalists suggest consuming Valerian for no more than 2 weeks at a time, followed by a break of the same length. 

Our Formulas Containing Valerian

Valerian root is used in Snooze EZ, Peace Treaty, and Contract Ease

Snooze EZ is our best-selling pregnancy-friendly sleep support formula. It is for short-term use and is popular among moms-to-be during periods of insomnia, restlessness, and anxiety.

Contract Ease is our midwife-approved afterbirth cramp relief formula. We've had countless mothers use this after multiple births and say they've never found anything else that was as fast, effective, or easy to use!

Peace Treaty was carefully formulated by a Cherokee medicine healer. It's our sleep support formula that has also found a popular spot for calming ADD/ADHD individuals and anxiety support.

These formulas and dozens more are available from TriLight Health for as low as $12.95. With a 100% customer satisfaction money-back guarantee, there's no reason not to add these amazing formulas to your home apothecary. Our fast-acting, great-tasting liquid herbal formulas have been used by families for over 30 years! Order yours today.

Note- Be sure to check with a physician before using Valerian if you're on any medications, especially for depression, anxiety, or sleep. In a tiny amount of the population, Valerian has the opposite effect and may cause nervousness, restlessness, agitation, or sleeplessness. It is recommended to start with a low dose to see how you respond.