Valerian root ethereal oil

Botanical name: Valeriana Officinalis

Valerian is native to Europe and Asia. There are over 150 species of valerian found in different parts of the world. Valerian oil from the Japanese plant named “Kesso root” is more woody; compared to VIZU’s valerian oil from India which is more musky.

This herb has been highly esteemed since medieval times, and used to be called “all heal”. In Europe, it is used for complaints associated with nervous tension or restlessness, such as insomnia, migraine, dysmenorrhoea, intestinal colic, rheumatism and as a pain reliever. In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), it is used for backache, colds, menstrual problems, bruises and sores. Valerian root essential oil is a wonderful calming “nervine” remedy, it helps soothe the nervous system in order to sleep restfully. It is also an excellent cardio-calming oil, invaluable for those with high blood pressure and erratic pulse.

Several reports suggest that valerian extracts reduced sleep latency and improves sleep structure and sleep perception of insomnia in healthy volunteers and patients suffering from sleep disorders. A study done by the Division of Neuroscience in Japan has determined that valerian and rose inhalation significantly prolonged and enhanced sleep in healthy volunteers, whereas lemon may cause a worsening of insomnia symptoms. It was alost noted that valerian’s inhalation was markedly noticeable compared to other odorants that were used.

Valerian root essential oil is a star ingredient in VIZU’s DREAMSCAPE insomnia aromatherapy oil blend, alongside with other nervine herbs such as patchouli, hops and lavender. Despite these amazing properties, because of its pungent aroma, this herb and its oil are not very socially accepted.

Today, valerian root is still included in German, Swiss, British, French, Japanese, Chinese, and European pharmacopoeias. The oil is often used in cosmetics, “forest” and “moss” inspired perfumery, and as a food flavouring. The herb is a leading over-the-counter tranquilizer in Europe.

Herbal Folk Tradition
Valerian has been used as a sedative since it was described by the ancient Greeks and Romans (Houghton 1988). The use of valerian to treat insomnia and nervous conditions began in the late 16th century and was firmly established by the 18th century (Hobbs 1989), and the current popular interest in valerian is primarily related to its effects on sleep.

Valerian has been used as a medicinal herb in the treatment of epilepsy and as a calmative for nervous disorders and hysteria. American Indian warriors used valerian as an antiseptic for wounds.

Once known as “the herbe of white witches”, the traditional herbalists today use it primarily for excitability (of the nerves, mind and heart) and insomnia.