Valerian, Official (Valeriana officinalis)

*Designated an invasive species in the following states, no sale: AK, NH, CT, WI

Native to Europe and Asia, this calming and sedative perennial herb has become a well-known herbal support for those struggling with nervous tension, insomnia and anxiety. Growing upwards of 5 feet, Valerian has sweetly scented pink or white flowers that attract many fly species, especially hoverflies. It is also consumed as food by the larvae of various butterfly and moth species including the Grey Pug.

Also known as Garden Heliotrope, Valerian is one of nature’s best healing allies because of the profoundly effective calmative qualities that work quickly and that can alleviate even chronic conditions of nervous excitability. Valerian has been worked with medicinally for almost two thousand years (at least) and is indicated for a variety of physical and emotional challenges ranging from chronic stress to migraines to a delayed menses and as pain relief, among other known benefits.