Valerian

Valeriana officinalis

Valerian is a hardy perennial flowering plant, with heads of sweetly scented pink or white flowers. This "sweet" smell is quite overpowering when the flower is placed into a vase. The flowers are in bloom from late spring to late summer. Valerian was used as a perfume in the sixteenth century. Masses of strongly fragrant scented white to pink flowers, used at one time for sedative tinctures and called the "poor man's valium.” The valerian holds a prominent position as one of the best herbal tranquilizers and muscle relaxants the plant kingdom has to offer. Caution: valerian may cause headaches, muscular spasms, and palpitations. It is not recommended for long-term use. Tincture of valerian helps clear dandruff. Folklore: Used in protective sachets or place under the pillow to help you sleep. Powdered valerian roots are considered a substitute for graveyard dust.