Botanical name - Valeriana officinalis
Country of Origin - Poland
Valerian root is known in small quantities to be used in cooking to flavour stews and soups.
Cats absolutely adore the scent of Valerian Root, more so than Catnip in many cases. Stuff a toy mouse and they will become quite frisky. Horses also enjoy the smell of valerian and they will try to reach for it. Valerian has a calming effect on most animals. The cats become playful when they are given the chance to calm down.
Many people use Valerian Root to bait humane mouse traps as mice enjoy the smell of this plant too.
If you are having difficulty getting to sleep, try Valerian tea. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over one teaspoon powdered Valerian root. Cover and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten, if desired. Add a pinch of mace as flavouring if you so choose. Drink this tea warm.
Valerian is not a very pleasant smelling herb, but it is very effective. The Valerian root, may be added to other, better tasting herbs and will be just as effective. Simply add the herb of your choice to the water along with the Valerian root.