It consists of the dried underground parts of Valeriana officinalis, Family: Valerianaceae.

Commercial Importance

One of the top selling sedatives in Europe, valerian was a much esteemed root both for its medicinal uses and as a spice and perfume. It is one of the 10 most popular medicinal plants in North America. Valerian preparations are widely used as herbal tranquillizers to relieve nervous tension, anxiety and insomnia. They are used as safe and effective non-addictive alternatives to conventional sleep medications. Various species of valerian are official in the pharmacopeias of many nations such as Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and UK. Considerable quantities of valerian are used by the perfume industry.